A process becomes critical, if one or more of the following criteria apply:
- The test team repeats the process frequently as part of daily business. E.g.: Bug reporting process.
- The process affects the ability to work together, especially where a breakdown might damage a cohesive, cooperative team. E.g.: unique assignment of testing task that prevents accidental repetition of testers’ efforts.
- The process involves peers or superiors. E.g.: Reporting, (effective) communication
- A process failure could lead to serious and possibly lasting negative outcomes. Consider the process of selecting what areas of the product should be tested.
In short, a critical process directly and significantly affects the testing team’s ability to provide valuable information and services within its organisational, operational, and technological context.