Certified Associate in Software Testing (CAST) Practice Test

What is an early benefit of software testing?

1. Identifying weaknesses in software processes

2. Removes defects before production

3. Finding defects late in development

4. Proving software is bug-free

The correct answer is: Removes defects before production

The early benefit of software testing primarily revolves around its ability to remove defects before the software goes into production. This proactive approach prevents potential issues from reaching end users, which not only enhances user satisfaction but also reduces the costs associated with fixing problems after deployment. Testing at early stages allows teams to identify and address defects when they are typically less expensive and less complex to fix. This ensures that the overall development process maintains a higher standard of quality. If defects are left undetected until the production environment, they can lead to significant downtimes, costly fixes, and damage to an organization’s reputation. Identifying weaknesses in software processes is valuable but is more of a benefit of process improvement rather than directly related to the testing of the software itself. Finding defects late in development contradicts the fundamental purpose of early testing efforts, which is to catch and resolve issues as soon as possible. Lastly, claiming that software can be proven to be bug-free is somewhat misleading, as no software can be entirely devoid of defects; testing can significantly reduce defects but cannot guarantee absolute freedom from them.