STLC

STLC

STLC stands for Software Testing Life Cycle. STLC is a process where all the components and features of an application are tested completely such that they satisfy the requirements and quality as per the standard.  STLC involves strategic testing that needs to be carried out in each phase of development

The saying “prevention is better than cure” perfectly applies to software testing. Instead of spending a lot of time, money, and resources fixing problems after they occur, the Software Testing Life Cycle (STLC) ensures testing happens throughout every phase of development. This continuous testing helps catch issues early, leading to a high-quality product delivered on time and within budget.

By following the STLC, testing is done step-by-step as each part of the software is built. This allows teams to find and fix blockers or bugs early, preventing major problems later. As a result, the final product meets the expectations of stakeholders, clients, and customers without unexpected delays or costs.

6 phases of Software Testing Life Cycle


1. Requirement Analysis

Testers review the requirements to understand what needs to be tested. They identify testable requirements and clarify any doubts with the stakeholders.

2. Test Planning

The testing team creates a test plan, deciding the scope, approach, resources, schedule, and types of testing to be done.

3. Test Case Development

Testers write detailed test cases and prepare test data based on the requirements and test plan.

4. Test Environment Setup

The required hardware and software environment is prepared to execute the test cases.

5. Test Execution

Testers run the test cases on the software. They log any defects or issues found during testing.

6. Test Cycle Closure

After testing is complete, the team reviews the testing process, documents lessons learned, and prepares test summary reports.

Software Testing Life Cycle (STLC) – Phases with Examples

Phase

Description

Example

1. Requirement Analysis

Understand what needs to be tested.

Login feature: Check if username & password fields are testable.

2. Test Planning

Create a test strategy, timeline, and assign roles.

Decide to use 2 testers, run manual tests for login, automate sign-up flow.

3. Test Case Development

Write test cases and prepare test data.

Write steps: "Enter username → Enter password → Click Login → Expect success."

4. Test Environment Setup

Set up the software, hardware, and tools needed for testing.

Install app on test server, configure Chrome browser and database access.

5. Test Execution

Run the test cases and log bugs.

Run login test → System crashes → Log defect in bug tracker.

6. Test Cycle Closure

Wrap up testing, report results, and reflect.

Prepare test summary → Discuss lessons learned → Close open defects.


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