Concepts
The implementation of a test-driven feedback loop is pivotal in the smooth operation of an Advanced Certified Scrum Developer (A-CSD) project. The feedback loop ensures a constant and consistent exchange of information, ideas, and opinions between developers (the Scrum team) and the stakeholders/users to develop a relevant, functional, and efficient product. This discourse is done using either a formal or informal approach.
I. FORMAL APPROACH
(a) Defect Reporting
An example of a formal approach is through defect reporting. During the testing phase, the Scrum team identifies issues/bugs with the product. Stakeholders and users are informed of these defects in a formal report, which they review and give their feedback accordingly. The Scrum team then fixes these defects based on the stakeholders/users’ feedback.
| Feedback Phase | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Identification | The Scrum team spots defects/issues during the testing phase. |
| 2. Reporting | The team compiles a defect report detailing the identified issues. |
| 3. Review | Stakeholders/users assess the report and give their feedback. |
| 4. Remediation | The team fixes the defects based on the feedback received. |
(b) User Acceptance Test (UAT)
Another example of the formal approach is through User Acceptance Tests (UATs). Here, the Scrum team develops a product or feature and hands it over to the stakeholders/users for testing. The users then provide their feedback, which is implemented into the product to enhance its performance and usability.
II. INFORMAL APPROACH
(a) Direct Communication
Direct communication is an example of an informal method. There are no formal reports or documents involved. The Scrum team directly interacts with the users/stakeholders, discussing the progress of the project and receiving feedback. Direct communication can take place through meetings, emails, calls, video conferences, or online chat platforms. This method is effective for quick responses and adjustments.
(b) Prototyping
Prototyping is another informal approach that can be used by the Scrum team. In this method, the team creates a working model of the product or feature and presents it to the stakeholders/users. The users/stakeholders then interact with the prototype and provide their feedback, which is then implemented into the final product.
Conclusion
The chosen approach to implement a test-driven feedback loop depends on the project’s nature and the stakeholders/users involved. Regardless of the method chosen, the primary focus should be on ensuring a clear, consistent, and productive dialogue between the Scrum team and the stakeholders/users. It is this communication that will facilitate the production of a successful product that meets the users’ needs. Moreover, this feedback loop plays an integral part in the Advanced Certified Scrum Developer (A-CSD) process; therefore, it should be effectively implemented and managed.
Answer the Questions in Comment Section
True or False? Stakeholders do not need to be involved in the test driven feedback loop.
- True
- False
Answer: False.
Explanation: Stakeholders play a crucial role in the test driven feedback loop, particularly in verifying the functionality of developed features and providing key feedback.
Which of the following is an approach to implement a test driven feedback loop with stakeholders and users?
- A. Ignoring stakeholders’ and users’ inputs
- B. Assuming stakeholders and users are happy with the product
- C. Implementing behavioral driven development (BDD)
- D. Delivering the product without testing it
Answer: C. Implementing behavioral driven development (BDD)
Explanation: BDD is an approach that allows for communication with stakeholders and users, making it a vital part of the test driven feedback loop.
True or False? Timely feedback from stakeholders and users helps in early debugging of codes in the test driven feedback loop.
- True
- False
Answer: True.
Explanation: Timely feedback helps in identifying any flaws or errors in the code early on, allowing for prompt debugging.
What is the main goal of the test driven feedback loop in Agile Scrum?
- A. To ensure the stakeholders are satisfied
- B. To ensure high code coverage
- C. To facilitate early identification and resolution of errors
- D. To reduce the development time
Answer: C. To facilitate early identification and resolution of errors
Explanation: While all the options may be beneficial effects, the primary goal of a test driven feedback loop is early identification and resolution of errors.
True or False? A test driven feedback loop does not support continuous integration.
- True
- False
Answer: False.
Explanation: A test driven feedback loop supports continuous integration by allowing for early error detection and resolution, thus leading to a smoother and continuous development process.
User acceptance testing (UAT) can be applied to implement a test driven feedback loop with stakeholders and users. True or False?
- True
- False
Answer: True.
Explanation: Through UAT, stakeholders and users can verify the functionality of development features, thus becoming a part of the test driven feedback loop.
Prototyping is an approach you can apply to implement a test-driven feedback loop.
- A. True
- B. False
Answer: A. True
Explanation: Prototyping allows stakeholders and users to interact with an early version of the product, thus enabling the collection of valuable feedback for the test-driven feedback loop.
Which of these is not a benefit of implementing a test-driven feedback loop with stakeholders and users?
- A. Increased cost
- B. Reduced risk
- C. Higher product quality
- D. Improved user experience
Answer: A. Increased cost
Explanation: While implementing a test-driven feedback loop might have an upfront cost, in the long run, it leads to reduced risk, higher product quality, and improved user experience.
The entire Scrum team should be involved in applying a Test Driven feedback loop with stakeholders and users.
- A. True
- B. False
Answer: A. True
Explanation: It is crucial for the whole team to be involved for effective feedback and communication.
Test automation tools play no role in a test-driven feedback loop.
- A. True
- B. False
Answer: B. False
Explanation: Test automation tools streamline the testing process making it faster and more effective, hence they play a relevant role in a test-driven feedback loop.
Great post! Implementing a test-driven feedback loop with stakeholders ensures continuous improvement and alignment in project goals.
Absolutely, TDD is crucial for maintaining high-quality code. Has anyone tried Behavior-Driven Development (BDD) to involve stakeholders?
Thanks for the informative post!
What about using Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment (CI/CD) pipelines as part of the feedback loop?
Informative blog, helped me a lot in understanding the importance of feedback loops.
Can someone share experience with using user stories for this? How do they fit into the feedback loop?
Thanks for the valuable insights!
Using test doubles (mocks, stubs, etc.) can also be beneficial in a TDD workflow. Anyone experienced with that?