Boundary Value Analysis is a black-box test technique used to identify and test boundary values of input parameters. As a test engineer, here's what you need to know about Boundary Value Analysis:
Definition: Boundary Value Analysis is a technique that tests input values at the edges or boundaries of input domains, where errors are more likely to occur.
Objective: The main aim of Boundary Value Analysis is to identify and test the minimum and maximum values of input parameters and values just inside and outside these boundaries.
Process: Boundary Value Analysis involves identifying the input parameters and their boundaries and creating test cases that include values at or near these boundaries. For example, if the input parameter is a numeric field that accepts values between 1 and 100, the test cases include matters such as 0, 1, 2, 99, 100, and 101.
Advantages: Boundary Value Analysis can help identify errors and defects at the edges of input domains, which are often more likely to occur than errors within the domain. It can also help reduce the number of test cases required to test a system or application.
Limitations: Boundary Value Analysis may not be effective for complex systems or applications where the input parameters are interdependent or where the input domain needs to be clearly defined. It may also only be effective if the boundaries of the input domain are well-defined or if there are too many boundary values to test.
Examples of Boundary Value Analysis include:
- Testing a numeric field that accepts values between 1 and 100.
- Testing a date field that takes dates between 01/01/2000 and 12/31/2022.
- Testing a password field that accepts passwords between 8 and 20 characters.
In conclusion, Boundary Value Analysis is a useful test technique that can help test engineers identify errors and defects at the edges of input domains. It is important to understand its advantages and limitations and to use it appropriately depending on the specific requirements and context of the testing project.