The software testing process is the steps we make to ensure that software works the way it should. It gives us a way to plan, test, and improve software before it reaches users.
But what does that process actually look like in real teams? How do we go from planning to bug tracking to final sign-off without getting lost in the details?
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the full software QA cycle. You'll learn:
Let’s get started.
The software testing process is a structured series of steps that help teams deliver reliable, high-quality software. It covers everything from understanding the requirements to verifying the final product.
Software Testing Life Cycle is the formal name for this sequence. Each phase has a purpose. Each step builds confidence in the product.
For example, imagine your team is releasing a new mobile banking app. You begin by gathering requirements for features like login and transfers. Then you build test cases, run them on different devices, log any issues, and verify the fixes before launch. That’s the full testing workflow in action, from start to finish.
A defined software testing process gives your team a reliable path to ensure quality, reduce risk, and stay compliant. It improves coordination, lowers rework costs, and supports smoother releases.
Every phase in the software QA cycle helps catch issues early and align development with real-world needs. If a payment system fails after deployment, a missing test process is often the root cause.
The software testing process follows a clear path. Each phase adds structure and focus to the QA process steps. Here’s how it unfolds in most teams.
This structured test process flow helps teams improve coverage, track progress, and ensure every build meets expectations.
These goals give direction to every testing workflow, from manual checks to full-scale automation runs.
Testing teams often work with evolving requirements and fast-moving timelines. Tool integration can take extra time, and some developers prefer less structure. In agile settings, it takes focus to balance speed with clear documentation and a defined testing workflow. A strong QA process helps keep progress steady while supporting change.
Following these practices ensures efficiency and reliability in the QA lifecycle.
The QA team is testing a healthcare mobile app that lets users book appointments and access medical records. They begin with requirement analysis for features like secure login and appointment booking. Next, they build test cases for each user flow and prepare devices for test execution. As the team runs tests, they log defects and verify fixes. The cycle ends with a test summary report that confirms stability and readiness for release.
The software testing process brings order and confidence to every stage of software delivery. It helps teams move faster with fewer surprises and more control. As teams embrace automation and agile practices, mastering a solid testing process is the foundation for delivering quality software.
Katalon Studio supports this journey with tools that fit into any modern QA workflow.