Testing Test Cases

Getting test cases completed can be a big challenge.  You need to identify what should be tested, how those tests will be run, who will run them and how you'll track it all.  Each step is important, but ensuring it's actually done can be the hardest part.

There's a number of ways to do this, and each had it's own pros and cons.

Testing on your own

This is a very common approach.  Just send out the test cases with some instructions and ask folks to run the test.  The big advantage is this is entirely asynchronous.  Testers can do their testing on their own time.  A big trade off, however, is that since it's asynchronous it's hard to track and plan… you never know when someone will get it done.

Regular syncs, independent testing

This approach blends in regular meetings with testers while still allowing them test on their own.  These regular syncs are useful as they give the y am a touch point for help, and let you more easily see progress. The check-ins help mitigate the risks Of asynchronous testing, but allowing testers to choose their own time to test still presents a risk that things won't get done in a timely fashion.

Scheduled testing sessions

The next step up is the schedule specific times for the entire team to connect and test together.  This involves getting the testers, and the technical team, in a conference room (virtual or otherwise) and running tests together.  This presents the best opportunity to solve challenges and get updates since everyone's in it together.  Depending on the size of your group it can be challenging to find time/space for everyone.

One on one testing

This option involves scheduling one on one time for testers to connect with the technical team and test together.  This provides the highest touch experience as each tester gets personalized support.  This is a good option if specific users are new to testing or if they have a need for elevated support.  It doesn't, however, scale well if the group is big as each tester needs their own session(s).  It can also be very taxing on the project team as they'll have to sit on all those calls.