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Software Quality

1. Definition

Software Quality refers to the degree to which a software product meets specified requirements, satisfies user needs, and performs reliably under expected conditions.

In simple terms: Quality = Fitness for use

2. Why Software Quality Matters

  • Direct impact on user satisfaction
  • Reduces business risk and losses
  • Improves brand trust and reputation
  • Lowers maintenance and support costs
  • Ensures regulatory and compliance adherence

3. Software Quality from a Tester’s View

A tester evaluates quality by checking:

  • Does the software work correctly?
  • Does it behave as users expect?
  • Is it stable and reliable?
  • Is it usable and understandable?
  • Does it handle invalid or unexpected input?

4. Quality vs Defect-Free Software

  • Defect-free does NOT guarantee quality
  • Software can be defect-free but still:
    • Confusing to users
    • Missing key business features
    • Difficult to use
  • Testing focuses on value, not just defects.

5. Dimensions of Software Quality (Manual Focus)

Common quality dimensions include:

  • Functionality – Does it do what it should?
  • Reliability – Does it work consistently?
  • Usability – Is it easy to use?
  • Efficiency – Does it perform adequately?
  • Maintainability – Can it be easily fixed or enhanced?
  • Portability – Does it work across environments?

6. How Software Quality Is Achieved

Software quality is built through:

  • Clear and complete requirements
  • Proper design and architecture
  • Quality assurance processes
  • Effective manual testing
  • Defect prevention and early detection

7. Role of Manual Testing in Software Quality

Manual testing ensures:

  • Business logic is correct
  • User workflows are valid
  • Edge cases are handled
  • User experience meets expectations
  • Risks are identified before release

8. Measuring Software Quality

Quality can be assessed using:

  • Defect density
  • Defect leakage
  • Test coverage
  • Customer feedback
  • Production incident rate

9. Software Quality in Real Projects

In real-world projects:

  • Quality is negotiated with time and cost
  • Zero defects is rare
  • Focus is on acceptable risk
  • Testing helps define release readiness

10. Common Quality Issues

  • Ambiguous requirements
  • Inadequate testing
  • Time pressure
  • Poor communication
  • Environment instability

11. Interview-Ready Answers

Short answer:

Software quality is the degree to which a software product meets requirements and satisfies user expectations.

Detailed answer:

Software quality represents how well a software system fulfills functional requirements, delivers reliable performance, and provides value to end users under real-world conditions.

12. Key Takeaway

Software Quality is not accidental—it is planned, built, tested, and maintained.