Software testing process improvement models – TMMi, TPI Next, CTP, STEP

There are several industry standard models that have been created in order to improve the testing process. These software testing process improvement models are specifically tailored for testing and hence, they are better suited than other process improvement models which are usually meant for software development.
Software Testing Process Improvement Models

• Testing Maturity Model integration (TMMi)
• Test Process Improvement (TPI) Next
• Critical Testing Processes (CTP)
• Systematic Test and Evaluation Process (STEP)

Testing Maturity Model integration (TMMi)Testing Maturity Model integration (TMMi) complements the CMMI model and consists of five levels of maturity. Each level of maturity has predefined processes areas with general goals as well as goals that are specific.
The organization will be able to move to higher maturity level only after these goals are at least 85% complete.
Maturity levels defined for TMMi

• Level 1: Initial
  In this level, testing is considered equivalent to debugging and its aim is to simply prove that the software functions as expected. The testing process is not properly structured or even documented officially. The tests themselves are introduced in an unplanned manner as and when required, once coding is complete.
• Level 2: Managed
  If the testing process is separate from the debugging process, the organization reaches the managed level. To attain this level, test goals and test policy must be defined clearly. Basic steps seen in test process like creating a test plan, implementing testing methods and techniques, must be put into practice.
• Level 3: Defined
  In this level, testing is an integral part of the overall software development process. Test processes have formally defined standards, methods and processes that are documented. There is a distinct test function for software testing that is monitored and controlled and reviews occur periodically.
• Level 4: Measured
  This maturity level is attained when the test process can be efficiently measured and controlled at company level for individual projects benefit.
• Level 5: Optimized
  This highest maturity level is said to be reached if data obtained as a result of testing process is used to minimize defects. The focus at this level is to optimize the existing test processes.
  

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