Error Seeding

Error Seeding

Error seeding is a software testing technique where intentional errors or bugs are introduced into the application to evaluate the effectiveness of the testing process. The idea is to check how well the testing team or tools can identify and handle errors, offering valuable insights into the robustness of the overall testing process.

Purpose

The primary aim of error seeding is to gauge the efficiency of the test coverage. If the team can detect the seeded errors, it implies they are likely to catch unintentional bugs as well. This technique acts as a litmus test for the thoroughness of the testing strategy.

To measure the number of defects in the program or evaluate testing methodology.
Software fault-based metrics formula will give you an idea.

Introduce artificial faults randomly to the program unknown to the tester. Let’s call this as  ‘x’

Test the program

All the defects found by the tester are ‘f’

The number of artificial defects found by the tester is ‘y’

Measure of Test Adequacy ‘r’ =

Number of artificial defects ‘y’ found / Total number of artificial defects ‘x’ introduced

The estimated number of inherent defects # = (1/r) * f

Benefits of Error Seeding

Enhancing Testing Effectiveness
Error seeding highlights weaknesses in the testing process, ensuring all scenarios are adequately covered.

Improving Test Team Performance
By challenging the testing team, error seeding encourages a deeper analysis of the system and fosters skill improvement.

Identifying Gaps in the Testing Process
It helps pinpoint areas where test cases may be insufficient, leading to better refinement of testing strategies.