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Test Metrics & KPIs

Test Metrics are quantitative measures used to track and evaluate testing activities and outcomes. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) are critical metrics selected to assess testing effectiveness, efficiency, and quality impact.

They answer: “How well is testing performing, and is quality improving?”

1. Definition

Test Metrics are quantitative measures used to track and evaluate testing activities and outcomes. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) are critical metrics selected to assess testing effectiveness, efficiency, and quality impact.

2. Purpose of Test Metrics & KPIs

  • Measure testing progress and productivity
  • Assess product quality and risk
  • Support data-driven decisions
  • Improve predictability and transparency
  • Enable continuous improvement

3. Difference Between Metrics and KPIs

Aspect Metrics KPIs
Scope All measurements Critical few
Purpose Track data Judge performance
Volume Many Limited
Example # test cases executed Pass rate, defect leakage

4. Core Test Metrics (Manual Testing)

4.1 Test Case Metrics

  • Planned vs Executed Test Cases
  • Pass / Fail / Blocked Count
  • Execution Progress (%)

Use: Track execution status and stability.

4.2 Defect Metrics

  • Defect Density
  • Severity Distribution
  • Defect Leakage (%)
  • Defect Rejection Rate (%)
  • Defect Aging

Use: Assess quality and risk.

4.3 Coverage Metrics

  • Requirement Coverage (%)
  • Scenario Coverage
  • Risk Coverage

Use: Identify untested areas.

4.4 Productivity Metrics

  • Test Cases Designed per Day
  • Test Cases Executed per Day
  • Defects Found per Tester

Use: Capacity planning (use cautiously).

5. Common Testing KPIs (What Management Cares About)

5.1 Pass Rate

(Passed / Executed) × 100

Indicates: Build stability.

5.2 Defect Leakage

(Production defects / Total defects) × 100

Indicates: Testing effectiveness.

5.3 Defect Removal Efficiency (DRE)

Defects removed pre-release / Total defects × 100

Indicates: Quality control strength.

5.4 Requirement Coverage

Requirements tested / Total requirements × 100

Indicates: Testing completeness.

5.5 Mean Time to Fix (MTTF)

Indicates: Responsiveness to defects.

6. Manual Tester’s Role

  • Capture accurate execution and defect data
  • Assign correct severity and status
  • Update metrics consistently
  • Interpret results with context
  • Communicate risks clearly (not just numbers)

7. Using Metrics Effectively (Best Practices)

  • Focus on trends, not single-day numbers
  • Combine metrics with qualitative insights
  • Avoid using metrics to compare individuals
  • Align KPIs with business goals
  • Review metrics regularly and act on them

8. Common Pitfalls

  • Vanity metrics (numbers without decisions)
  • Overemphasis on pass rate alone
  • Ignoring severity and business impact
  • Using metrics as a blame tool

9. Example KPI Snapshot (Conceptual)

  • Pass Rate: 94%
  • Critical Defects Open: 0
  • Defect Leakage: 2%
  • Requirement Coverage: 98%

Inference: Release-ready with monitored residual risk.

10. Interview-Ready Answers

Short answer:

Test metrics and KPIs measure testing progress, quality, and effectiveness.

Detailed answer:

Test metrics provide quantitative data on testing activities, while KPIs focus on critical indicators like defect leakage, pass rate, and coverage to support quality and release decisions.

11. Key Takeaway

Metrics measure activity; KPIs measure impact. Use both to drive better quality decisions, not just reports.