Improving Software Testing

Software is continuously increasing in complexity. Paradigmatic shifts and new development frameworks make it easier to implement software but not to test it. Software testing remains to be a topic with many open questions with regard to both technical low-level aspects and to the organizational embedding of testing. However, a desired level of software quality cannot be achieved by either choosing a technical procedure or by optimizing testing processes. In fact, it requires a holistic approach.This Brief summarizes the current knowledge of software testing and introduces three current research approaches. The base of knowledge is presented comprehensively in scope but concise in length; thereby the volume can be used as a reference. Research is highlighted from different points of view. Firstly, progress on developing a tool for automated test case generation (TCG) based on a programs structure is introduced. Secondly, results from a project with industry partners on testing best practices are highlighted. Thirdly, embedding testing into e-assessment of programming exercises is described.