Document Type

Dissertation

Rights

This item is available under a Creative Commons License for non-commercial use only

Disciplines

Computer Sciences, Information Science

Publication Details

A dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment of t he requirements of Technological University Dublin for the degree of M.Sc. in Computing (Information Technology) January 2013.

Abstract

Software testing is a key part of the software development process, irrespective of the development methodology being followed. Estimates suggest that testing can account for more than 50% of the cost of a software development project. However, the cost of inadequate testing or verifying software can be far greater; this can result in losses that could total more than 10% of an organisation’s turnover. It is clear that software testing is essential; but while many companies implement different forms of testing, there is often no structure or best practice followed to this testing. There appears to be a gap in terms of research into software testing best practice. It has been shown in previous research that qualitative research methods can be used successfully when conducting research in the software engineering domain. In particular Grounded Theory was seen as very suitable for research in this area. The basis of Grounded Theory is in the formation of a theory from the data that is gathered. As such it is considered reflective of the reality of situations. This dissertation aimed to create a model for testing best practice in the telecommunications industry using a qualitative research methodology. It aimed to develop a Grounded Theory that could be used to guide testing within a large telecommunications company.


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