Certified Associate in Software Testing (CAST) Practice Test

What is a primary goal of inspections and reviews in the software development process?

1. To finalize the product for release

2. To remove the verification responsibility from the developer

3. To ensure all features are implemented

4. To conduct user acceptance testing

The correct answer is: To remove the verification responsibility from the developer

The primary goal of inspections and reviews in the software development process is to enhance the quality of the product through early detection of defects and ensuring compliance with requirements and standards. Inspections and reviews serve as a collaborative process where team members evaluate the work product, providing an opportunity to catch issues before they progress further into the development cycle. By focusing on continuous quality assurance through peer review and inspections, the reliance on individual developers' verification decreases, thereby fostering a culture of collective ownership and quality. This approach not only reinforces accountability but also encourages knowledge sharing among team members, leading to improved overall product quality. The other options represent different aspects of the development process that are not the primary focus of inspections and reviews. Finalizing the product for release pertains more to project completion, while ensuring all features are implemented relates to functionality checking rather than the quality assurance process prior to release. Conducting user acceptance testing is a separate phase that occurs after inspections and reviews and is specifically aimed at evaluating the product from the end-user's perspective. Therefore, inspections and reviews primarily target defect identification and quality improvement rather than transitioning responsibility or meeting release criteria.