Don’t Worry. Failed tests are a good thing!
Many stakeholders stress out over failed tests. A failed test (at least in the early rounds of testing) is a good thing because it benefits the project in several ways:
- Improved deliverables. When a well-defined test fails, it identifies the error and the repair needed. For example, a test for a sales voucher would confirm “boundary dates.” Does an expiration date of July 1 mean the voucher can be used on July 1, or must be used by June 30? Tests that are specific will validate that the system correctly interprets the intent of voucher expiration. Test errors are an opportunity to improve project deliverables, which is a welcome outcome!
- Reduced costs. It is less expensive to correct defects found during testing, rather than later in the project lifecycle. Defects corrected during testing also avoid issues with customer perception and confidence, which are both expensive and can irreparably damage the project team’s organization.
- Indications of risks within a solution. Multiple errors appearing in a particular area of a solution can indicate unanticipated risks (perhaps from the solution’s complexity or poorly defined requirements). Regardless, these errors highlight the need for a thorough investigation into the root cause. Fixing the root cause can significantly reduce risks that might arise during customer implementation.
- A stronger team. The objective of every project is to deliver value. Errors diminish that value. Because finding errors during testing improves current deliverables, that not only delivers more value, but also provides learning opportunities that will improve future projects.
Humans are wired to learn from experience. Failure can feel uncomfortable, but it teaches us what doesn’t work and what might work better. Success teaches us what works (and sometimes prevents us from identifying other ways to do things). The next time a test fails, don’t freak out: the fix will improve the project and help the team get stronger.
Coming Up
Still no release date for the fully updated Project Management Foundations, but it’s getting close!
Next, I will start updating my Project Management Foundations: Small Projects course.
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