In software testing, reviews are a critical quality assurance activity used to identify defects, enhance understanding, and improve the quality of software deliverables. There are several types of reviews, each serving a specific purpose. Here are the common review types:
1. Formal Reviews
- Description: A structured and systematic process with well-defined roles and stages.
- Examples:
- Inspection: A detailed examination of work products to detect defects.
- Walkthrough: A team-based review led by the author to gain feedback and improve understanding.
- Key Roles: Author, Reviewer(s), Moderator, Recorder.
- Purpose: To ensure compliance with standards and identify issues early.
2. Informal Reviews
- Description: An unstructured process conducted without formal documentation or roles.
- Examples:
- Peer reviews: Colleagues casually reviewing each other’s work.
- Key Roles: Usually just the author and reviewer.
- Purpose: Quick feedback and defect identification without overhead.
3. Technical Reviews
- Description: Focuses on technical aspects like code quality, algorithms, architecture, or design.
- Key Roles: Developers, architects, subject matter experts.
- Purpose: To verify technical correctness and adherence to best practices.
4. Management Reviews
- Description: Ensures the project is on track in terms of scope, schedule, and cost.
- Key Roles: Managers, stakeholders.
- Purpose: To assess progress, risks, and compliance with business objectives.
5. Code Reviews
- Description: A review of the source code to detect defects, ensure coding standards, and improve maintainability.
- Methods:
- Manual inspection.
- Tool-assisted (e.g., SonarQube, GitHub PR reviews).
- Key Roles: Developers, lead developers.
- Purpose: To improve code quality and find bugs early.
6. Peer Reviews
- Description: Colleagues or peers review the work products.
- Purpose: To provide constructive feedback and ensure quality.
7. Audit Reviews
- Description: A systematic examination of processes and compliance with standards or regulations.
- Key Roles: Auditors, QA team.
- Purpose: To ensure adherence to organizational and regulatory standards.