Things that can be visualized are easier to recall. This is because of our brain capability to process and recall visual things much more quickly than written words. Mind Mapping is a technique that can be used to manage and present information pictorially.
The Use of Mind Mapping in Software Testing
Mind Mapping might not be a new word to many of you; however, in software testing it requires a bit of thought to implement it. Mind Maps can be used to represent various stages of testing using representative symbols, colors, lines, images, etc. When you get a graphical view of an idea or concept, it provides you with creative ways to plan the testing. You can add more versatility to Mind Maps though the tools. For example, you can consider adding notes, links, etc. that can be even folded/unfolded and searched.
Be it at the root level or at validation level, Mind Maps can be used in a variety of testing activities, including designing, planning, and more.
Creating a Sample Testing Mind Map
- Draw the main subject in the centre.
- Categorize the main idea into various themes and represent them by extending branches from the centre. The themes could be various types of test activities like unit testing, functional testing, etc. You can further split each activity into further sub activities.
- Use color representations and avoid using long sentences in the branch. This can help you separate critical activities from others.
- Avoid making the map too complex to understand. After all, idea behind the Mind Map is to pictorially represent a project for better understanding.
- You can always move a descriptive Mind Map to a different Mind Map.
- There are various Mind Mapping tools available in the market that can be logically used to make the diagram clutter free.
Advantages of Implementing Mind Maps in Testing
Enhanced Test Plans
With Mind Mapping techniques, you can visualize a number of tasks that need to be performed while testing. However, you must consider discussing it with stakeholders and make the necessary changes if required. Once the map is finalized, it can be a direct input for test planning. This ensures that all the test activities have been covered.
Trace Testing Path
You can include requirements and link them to corresponding test cases. This allows you to trace and verify test results.
Monitor Test Development
Mind Maps allow you to analyze the health of the project as well as trace its progress. You can get a better view of the test in progress and completed/pending activities.
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