Choosing Test Data

Choosing test data for Information and Communication Technology (ICT) systems is a critical step in the software testing process, ensuring that the system functions correctly across a wide range of inputs and scenarios.

Review the system requirements or specifications to understand what the system is supposed to do. Test data should cover all functional requirements.

Identify Test Cases

Positive Test Cases

Create test data that meets the expected input criteria to verify that the system behaves as intended.

Negative Test Cases

Generate test data that falls outside the expected input criteria to ensure the system handles errors gracefully.

Use Realistic and Synthetic Data

Realistic Data

Whenever possible, use data that mimics real-world scenarios to see how the system performs under typical conditions.

Synthetic Data

Generate data to test specific functionalities or to simulate data that may not be readily available due to privacy concerns or rare conditions.

Include Extreme and Edge Cases

Stress Testing

Use data that tests the limits of the system's capacity or performance to see how it handles under stress.

Edge Cases

Consider scenarios that are unlikely but possible, to ensure the system can handle unexpected inputs.

Data Variety and Volume

Variety

Ensure your test data covers different data formats, types, and structures expected by the system.

Volume

Test with various amounts of data, from the minimum to the maximum expected, to evaluate performance and scalability.

Automatic Testing

Test Data Generation Tools

Consider using tools that can generate test data based on your specifications to save time and ensure a broad coverage.

Test Automation Software

Automate testing where possible using automatic testing software (such as Python's Unit Test module)