Glossary of software testing terms

A tool that provides an environment for unit or component testing in which a component can be tested in isolation or with suitable stubs and drivers. It also provides other support for the developer, such as debugging capabilities. [Reference: Graham]

See component testing.

dynamic testing in which the tester's actions are not prescribed by written instructions in a test case

The degree to which a component or system can be used by specified users to achieve specified goals in a specified context of use. [Reference: After ISO 25010]

A process through which information about the usability of a system is gathered in order to improve the system (known as formative evaluation) or to assess the merit or worth of a system (known as summative evaluation). - See also: formative evaluation, summative evaluation

A test facility in which unintrusive observation of participant reactions and responses to software takes place.

A requirement on the usability of a component or system.

A representative user who solves typical tasks in a usability test.

A document specifying a sequence of actions for the execution of a usability test. It is used by the moderator to keep track of briefing and pre-session interview questions, usability test tasks, and post-session interview questions.