A goal oriented measurement of test case quality assessment model for agile software development

In agile software development (ASD), assessing quality of test cases is crucial for developing high-quality software products. Since organizations strive to meet the ever-changing demands of customers, a robust measurement model for evaluating test case quality is highly necessary. However, existing models often fail to address challenges faced by ASD practitioners, overlooking some important metrics for assessing test case quality. To bridge this gap, this study proposes a Goal-Oriented Test Case Quality Measurement (GOTCA) model for ASD. This model aims to provide a practical and effective approach to assess test case quality. This study was conducted in four phases. A theoretical study to identify characteristics, sub-characteristics, and metrics influencing test case quality in ASD. Then, an exploratory study was carried out using expert reviews to validate the identified characteristics and sub-characteristics. Followed by the development of the GOTCA model by adapting the Evaluation Theory and Goal Question Metric method. Finally, the model was verified through expert review and validated through three case studies to ensure its practicality. The GOTCA model consists of six characteristics: documentation quality, management quality, reusability, efficiency, effectiveness, and overall satisfaction of test cases. As an improvement, the model includes 22 sub-characteristics and 56 metrics, providing a practical model for measuring the quality of black box test cases. As a result, this model enables ASD practitioners to assess the overall test case quality as specific characteristics for further improvement. This study contributes to the academic knowledge in assessing test case quality and provides practical guidelines for ASD practitioners. The GOTCA model assists ASD practitioners in evaluating the effectiveness of their test cases, identifying continuous improvement opportunities, and optimizing their testing processes. Ultimately, this leads to high-quality software and meets customer satisfaction.