π Introduction
In the Software Testing Life Cycle (STLC), every phase has specific conditions that must be met before it begins and ends. These conditions are known as Entry Criteria and Exit Criteria. Understanding these terms is crucial for ensuring the testing process is structured, efficient, and delivers high-quality results.
In this article, weβll explain what Entry and Exit Criteria mean in STLC using simple words and real-world examples. This will help testers, QA engineers, and businesses worldwide π understand how to manage software testing more effectively.
πͺ What is Entry Criteria in STLC?
Entry Criteria are the conditions that must be fulfilled before a testing phase can start. Think of them as the requirements or checklist that ensure the phase begins smoothly.
π Key Points about Entry Criteria:
Ensures readiness before starting a testing activity.
Reduces risk of incomplete or incorrect testing.
Helps the team focus on quality rather than rushing.
π Examples of Entry Criteria:
Test environment is set up and stable.
Test data is prepared and available.
Test cases are reviewed and approved.
Requirements documents are finalized and signed off.
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Real-Life Example: Imagine you are testing an e-commerce website checkout process. Before starting, you must have the test environment ready, the payment gateway integrated, and the test cases reviewed. These are your Entry Criteria.
π What is Exit Criteria in STLC?
Exit Criteria are the conditions that must be satisfied before a testing phase can be closed or completed. They act as a quality gate, confirming that the phase has been done thoroughly.
π Key Points about Exit Criteria:
Ensures the testing phase is complete.
Confirms that goals and deliverables are met.
Prevents incomplete or low-quality work from moving forward.
π Examples of Exit Criteria:
All planned test cases are executed.
Defects are logged, fixed, and re-tested.
Test summary report is prepared and shared.
No critical or high-priority bugs remain open.
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Real-Life Example: In the same e-commerce checkout testing, before finishing the phase, you must ensure all test cases (e.g., adding products, applying discounts, payment processing) have been executed and no critical bugs are left unresolved.
βοΈ Difference Between Entry and Exit Criteria in STLC
| Aspect | Entry Criteria | Exit Criteria |
|---|
| Meaning | Conditions to start a phase | Conditions to close/complete a phase |
| Purpose | Ensures readiness | Ensures completeness |
| Focus | Preparation before testing | Quality after testing |
| Example | Test data and environment ready | All test cases executed, no critical bugs |
π Importance of Entry and Exit Criteria in Software Testing
Improves Quality π β Ensures that each phase starts and ends with clear goals.
Saves Time & Cost π° β Avoids delays caused by missing prerequisites or incomplete work.
Reduces Risks β οΈ β Prevents skipping important steps that could lead to software failures.
Brings Transparency π β Everyone in the team knows when a phase is ready to start or finish.
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Final Thoughts
Entry and Exit Criteria in the Software Testing Life Cycle (STLC) are like traffic lights π¦. They tell you when to start (green light) and when to stop (red light). By following these criteria, software teams can ensure better quality, lower risk, and more successful project deliveries.
So, whether youβre a tester in the USA, UK, India, or anywhere else π, applying Entry and Exit Criteria will make your software testing more professional, efficient, and reliable.