An Application of Six Sigma and Simulation in Software Testing Risk Assessment

The conventional approach to Risk Assessment in Software Testing is based on analytic models and statistical analysis. The analytic models are static, so they don´t account for the inherent variability and uncertainty of the testing process, which is an apparent deficiency. This paper presents an application of Six Sigma and Simulation in Software Testing. DMAIC and simulation are applied to a testing process to assess and mitigate the risk to deliver the product on time, achieving the quality goals. DMAIC is used to improve the process and achieve required (higher) capability. Simulation is used to predict the quality (reliability) and considers the uncertainty and variability, which, in comparison with the analytic models, more accurately models the testing process. Presented experiments are applied on a real project using published data. The results are satisfactorily verified. This enhanced approach is compliant with CMMI^® and provides for substantial Software Testing performance-driven improvements.