Improving software quality using statistical testing techniques

Cleanroom usage-based statistical testing techniques have been incorporated into the software development process for a program in the Electronic Systems business of Raytheon Company. Cost-effectively improving the quality of software delivered into systems integration was a driving criterion for the program. Usage-based statistical testing provided the capability to increase the number of test cases executed on the software and to focus the testing on expected usage scenarios. The techniques provide quantitative methods for measuring and reporting testing progress, and support managing the testing process. This article discusses the motivation and approach for adopting usage-based statistical testing techniques, and experiences using these testing techniques. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.