STEEL THREAD

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Pattern summary

Test a thin slice of functionality that drives the Software Under Test (SUT) from one end to the other.

Category

Execution

Context

Use this pattern when you begin with test automation or when you start automating new functionality in the SUT that you first have to get to know
This pattern is not necessary for writing disposable scripts

Description

A steel thread is a test case that tests a “thin slice of functionality that cuts through the functionality from one end to the other” (Lisa Crispin). This kind of test cases is good to begin with because:

• You can support testers right away.
• It will also help you select the RIGHT TOOLS, since you will be able to get a good understanding of where the eventual automation problems are to be found

Implementation

Select test cases that perform only minimal actions, but go through the whole application. For instance insert a new customer record with only the mandatory fields.

Issues addressed by this pattern

INEFFICIENT EXECUTION
LIMITED EXPERIENCE

Experiences

If you have used this pattern and would like to contribute your experience to the wiki, please go to Feedback to submit your experience or comment.

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