A decision table is a brief visual representation for specifying which actions to perform depending on given conditions. The information represented in decision tables can also be represented as decision trees or in a programming language using if-then-else and switch-case statements.
A decision table is a good way to settle with different combination inputs with their corresponding outputs and is also called a cause-effect table. The reason to call cause-effect table is a related logical diagramming technique called cause-effect graphing that is basically used to obtain the decision table.
Importance of Decision Table:
- Decision tables are very much helpful in test design techniques.
- It helps testers to search the effects of combinations of different inputs and other software states that must correctly implement business rules.
- It provides a regular way of starting complex business rules, that is helpful for developers as well as for testers.
- It assists in the development process with the developer to do a better job. Testing with all combinations might be impractical.
- A decision table is basically an outstanding technique used in both testing and requirements management.
- It is a structured exercise to prepare requirements when dealing with complex business rules.
- It is also used in model complicated logic.
Decision Table in test designing:
Blank Decision Table
CONDITIONS STEP 1 STEP 2 STEP 3 STEP 4 Condition 1 Condition 2 Condition 3 Condition 4
Decision Table: Combinations
CONDITIONS STEP 1 STEP 2 STEP 3 STEP 4 Condition 1 Y Y N N Condition 2 Y N Y N Condition 3 Y N N Y Condition 4 N Y Y N
Advantage of Decision Table:
- Any complex business flow can be easily converted into test scenarios & test cases using this technique.
- Decision tables work iteratively which means the table created at the first iteration is used as input tables for the next tables. The iteration is done only if the initial table is not satisfactory.
- Simple to understand and everyone can use this method to design the test scenarios & test cases.
- It provides complete coverage of test cases which helps to reduce the rework on writing test scenarios & test cases.
- These tables guarantee that we consider every possible combination of condition values. This is known as its completeness property.
Whether you’re preparing for your first job interview or aiming to upskill in this ever-evolving tech landscape, neveropen Courses are your key to success. We provide top-quality content at affordable prices, all geared towards accelerating your growth in a time-bound manner. Join the millions we’ve already empowered, and we’re here to do the same for you. Don’t miss out – check it out now!
