Test plan template

A test plan is a formal document that outlines the goals, methodology, and timetable for planned testing operations. It often includes a list of resources required for a software tester to perform their job effectively.

Why use a template?

Treating the creation of a sample test plan as a future investment ensures the QA team follows a reliable pattern. By using a test plan example within Jira issue templates, testers can describe the testing methodology once and ensure no stage is overlooked in future sprints. This centralizes the whole process, providing one source of truth for tracking progress and maintaining software quality.

Template example:

Issue template name: Test plan

Issue type: Epic
Summary: Test plan for … [title with version number]

Issue type: Task
Summary: Create a test plan for […]
Description:

Create a test plan for [title with version number].

Subtasks:

1. Analyze the app and identify which software features will be tested

Description:

• Clearly define the objectives of the test plan, such as ensuring the functionality, performance, and security of the web application.
• Define the scope by specifying the features, modules, or components that will be included in the testing.

2. Identify testing team

Description:

• Identify and assembly your team (everybody involved in the testing process including developers, testers, project managers etc.)

3. Gather requirements

Description:

• Collect and analyze the requirements of the web application to understand its functionality, features, and performance expectations

4. Establish test methodologies

Description:

• Develop a high-level test strategy that outlines the overall approach to testing, including test levels (unit testing, integration testing, system testing), test types (functional testing, performance testing, security testing), and the criteria for entry and exit

5. Specify test environment

Description:

• Identify the hardware, software, network configurations, and other prerequisites necessary for testing.
• Ensure that the test environment closely mirrors the production environment

6. Prepare testing schedule (start/end dates, who’s responsible)

Description:

• Create a detailed test execution plan that includes the schedule, resources, and responsibilities for executing the test cases.
• Define the test data required for each test case.

7. Prepare test cases

Description:

• Develop detailed test cases based on the gathered requirements. Test cases should cover functional aspects, performance metrics, and security measures.
• Organize test cases in a hierarchical structure with main test cases and related sub-test cases.

8. Plan for test execution

Description:

• Create a detailed test execution plan that includes the schedule, resources, and responsibilities for executing the test cases.

9. Define the defect management process

Description:

• Define the process for logging, tracking, and managing defects.
• Establish criteria for severity and priority, and set up a process for retesting and validating fixes.

Issue type: Task
Summary: Test execution
Description:

Execute the test cases according to the test execution plan. Record the results, including pass/fail status and any deviations from expected outcomes.Subtasks examples:

• Execute Functional Tests
• Execute Security Tests
• Execute Performance Tests

Issue type: Task
Summary: Prepare test summary report
Description:

Summarize the results of the testing phase, including test coverage, defect metrics, and overall assessment of the web application’s quality. Provide recommendations for improvements if necessary.

Issue type: Task
Summary: Testing process review
Description:

Conduct a review of the test plan with key stakeholders and obtain their approval. This ensures that everyone is aligned with the testing strategy and objectives.Subtasks:

• Evaluate the accuracy and completeness of test summary reports

Assess the inclusion of key metrics and KPIs