6 Test Control

The previous chapters explained how test activities are designed and planned. This chapter explains how test managers control test activities during testing to ensure that the test schedule is implemented according to plan. Finally, some hints and tips for an adequate reporting system are given.

The best plan is only as good as its implementation. In the same way a project manager is judged by the final results of his project, a test manager is judged by how well he has performed in actually implementing the strategic specifications of the test plan and the operative specifications of the test project plan.

To do so, the test manager must actively control the test activities. Test control comprises the identification and implementation of all measures necessary to ensure that test activities are performed according to plan during the test cycle and that all test objectives are achieved. This requires timely initiation of the test task, continuous monitoring of the test progress, and adequate response to test results and sometimes to changed circumstances. Based on gained insights, the test manager must then be able to judge if the test process may be completed.