Test data management is essentially the generation of non-production, standardized data sets which reliably mirror an organization of real data so that software developers are able to perform valid and rigorous system tests on these real data sets. This is essential for the success of any system development project. Without a sound test data management strategy test data will not be able to be examined and a lack of test data management can result in failure of test automation and a loss of millions of dollars. The purpose of test data management strategies is to carefully manage test data and protect test data from being compromised. This ensures the continuity of the test automation process and the continued successful development of software applications.
Software testing is a complex process. It consists of a complex building, designing, and programming of software applications. Once the application is complete, it needs to be deployed in a production environment with real users. During this phase test data management must also be carefully planned and implemented so as to minimize the possibility of system failure and user error. The primary goal of software testing is to identify and correct defects in the functionality of the software application. Software test automation enables software developers to focus specifically on the most critical defects so as to eliminate unnecessary rework and cost.
There are different approaches used for implementing test data management strategies. When automated test cases are developed and executed manually these test data management strategies are specified in a test case definition. Manual test data management strategies include building test data sets by hand using manual tools. Manual implementation also has its disadvantages. For example, it requires considerable time and requires extensive knowledge in the specific area of software testing.
In order to achieve success in the test data management process, all involved in the software development processes should have a common standard. Each discipline needs to define the scope of the test data management process before beginning the process. Once test data management process is underway, it is important to have an open communication between the test engineer and the software designer. It is important for both of them understand the test cases that have been developed and what the objectives are. Once test data management process is complete, it is advisable to take a snapshot of the test data. This should be done so as to track changes that have been made to the software during the development cycle.
The test data management solution can also involve storage of test data sets. There are many storage systems that are available to use in the test management process. These storage systems come with different levels of reliability and security. When choosing a storage system, it is important for one to choose one that best meets their needs. It is also advisable to consider the cost of storage systems when planning to purchase them. Test data management solutions provide a way of managing test data sets from the actual developers to the test managers.