What defines risk-based testing?

Risk-based testing is defined as the prioritization of testing activities based on the potential risk of failure and the impact that such failures may have on the project or application. This approach enables testers to focus their efforts on the most critical areas, ensuring that the testing resources are utilized effectively and efficiently.

By evaluating the risks associated with different functionalities, teams can make informed decisions about where to allocate their testing efforts. For instance, features that are complex, have a history of defects, or are business-critical are often given higher priority, allowing teams to mitigate any serious issues that could affect users or the business.

This strategy contrasts with other methods that may not consider risk, such as testing all functionalities equally regardless of their significance or only performing testing at the end of a project. Engaging in thorough risk analysis helps ensure that the most impactful aspects of the software receive the necessary scrutiny, ultimately leading to higher quality outcomes.