What role does defect management play in the testing process?

Defect management is a critical aspect of the testing process that involves more than just identifying or tracking defects. It encompasses the entire lifecycle of defects, from their detection through to their resolution. By ensuring appropriate handling of defects throughout the testing process, defect management facilitates effective communication among team members, maintains a clear understanding of the defect status, and ensures that issues are prioritized and addressed systematically. This process is essential for improving the overall quality of the software, as it helps teams to assess the impact of defects, implement fixes, and validate those fixes effectively, ultimately leading to a more reliable product.