CH03. L02. Review Process

Summary

This script delves into the nuances of software testing, contrasting dynamic and static testing approaches. It emphasizes the review process within static testing, detailing its types, steps, and roles involved. The script outlines the progression from informal to formal reviews, highlighting the structured six-step formal review process, including planning, kickoff, individual preparation, review meetings, rework, and follow-up. It also discusses the importance of clear objectives, team selection, and organization for a successful review, ultimately aiming to improve software quality.

Takeaways

• 📚 The script discusses the distinction between dynamic and static testing in software development.
• 🔍 It delves into the two main components of static testing: reviews and static analysis tools that examine code without execution.
• 👥 The review process involves different roles, including the manager, moderator, author, reviewers, and scribe, each with specific responsibilities.
• 📝 Reviews can be informal or formal, with the latter having a structured process with steps, rules, and documentation.
• 🚀 The formal review process consists of six steps: Planning, Kickoff Meeting, Individual Preparation, Review Meeting, Rework, and Follow-up.
• 🔑 The success of the review process hinges on clear objectives, the right team selection, and effective communication of identified issues.
• 🔬 Static analysis tools are used in the coding stage to detect defects and issues against coding standards before code execution.
• 📈 The importance of the review process lies in its ability to improve software quality and ensure adherence to project requirements and standards.
• 📋 The script outlines the different types of reviews, ranging from informal to highly formal processes like Inspections and Walkthroughs.
• 👥 The roles within the review process are crucial for its success, with the manager initiating the process, the moderator facilitating discussions, and the author addressing identified defects.
• 📝 Documentation is key in formal reviews, ensuring that all findings and resolutions are recorded for future reference and process improvement.

Q & A

What is the main difference between dynamic testing and static testing?

Dynamic testing involves running the software and observing its behavior, whereas static testing is the process of examining the software without executing it, typically through reviews and static analysis tools.

What are the two main sections of static testing mentioned in the script?

The two main sections of static testing are reviews and static analysis. Reviews involve examining documents from each stage of software development, while static analysis uses tools to examine the code without execution.

What is the purpose of using static analysis tools during the coding stage?

Static analysis tools are used to review the code without running it, identifying defects and problems against coding standards that may cause issues during the software development process.

Can you explain the role of a reviewer in the review process of static testing?

The reviewer is responsible for examining documents from the software development stages, identifying potential defects, and providing feedback to improve the quality of the software before the implementation phase.

What are the types of reviews mentioned in the script, and how do they differ in formality?

The types of reviews mentioned are informal reviews, walkthroughs, technical reviews, and inspections. They differ in formality from informal, which is amicable and verbal, to very formal, which follows strict procedures and documentation.

What are the six steps or activities involved in a formal review process?

The six steps are: 1) Planning, 2) Kickoff meeting, 3) Individual preparation, 4) Review meeting, 5) Rework, and 6) Follow up. These steps ensure a structured and documented review process.

What is the role of the manager in the review process?

The manager's role includes deciding the start time of the review process, setting the required time for the review in the project schedule, and checking whether the process objectives were achieved after the review.

What is the difference between the roles of the moderator and the author in a review meeting?

The moderator is responsible for organizing and conducting the review meeting, leading the review process, and mediating between different viewpoints. The author, on the other hand, is responsible for writing the documents to be reviewed and addressing any defects found during the review.

What is the purpose of the walkthrough review type?

The purpose of a walkthrough is to provide learning, understanding, and to find defects in the documents. It involves the author leading the review meeting and can be either informal or formal.

What are the factors that contribute to the success of the review process?

Success factors include having clear and predefined objectives, choosing the best team for the review, presenting and discussing bugs in a positive and objective manner, fostering trust, and organizing and managing time effectively.

How does the inspection review differ from the technical review in terms of formality and process?

The inspection review is more formal and expansive than the technical review. It requires a trained moderator, more structured roles and preparations, and the collection of a review process matrix. It focuses on finding defects and ensuring the review is conducted properly and acceptably.