What is the meaning of “Artifact” in software testing?

Question

while increasing the level of defect in software testing, I came across the word "Artifact", what does it really mean? can anyone explain? I am really disappointed in finding the actual meaning of this on google.

Answer 1

This usually means something like "a file created during testing." For example, a log file is an artifact. If your tests create temporary files, they are artifacts. If your test loads images, these are artifacts.

Artifacts can mean other things besides files (therefore we say “artifact” and not “file”). For example, an artifact could be a row added to the database.

Depending on the context, this may also mean the files necessary for the test (for example: "for this test you need the following artifacts ...")

In short, an artifact is something created or used by a test suite.

Answer 2

Artifacts created, say, for a given release, are all the different "product units" that are available. It is better to have an example to understand. Imagine you need to test one product, but this product comes 2 in two versions (.msi file for Win and .dmg for Mac) plus 3 upgrade scripts for different databases that you could use as a backend, then you have There are 5 artifacts in your hands that you should check.

Answer 3

Artifacts are also documents used to do different things. For example, SRS, FS, test plan, test cycle plan, test cases of different types.

They are used for different purposes. In addition to the above artifacts, there are project documents, ERD, DFD, etc.

These documents are required to perform various tasks at different stages of the SDLC.

Answer 4

Testing artifacts are documents (testing strategy, testing plan, test suite, test data, scenarios, magazines, reports, etc.), Products and related information (Quick Facts block - https://qualityassurancetesting.us ), prepared during software testing. process. Typically, these documents may be shared with team managers, managers or other team members, and project stakeholders or clients.

The main purpose of these artifacts is to establish transparency among team members and, therefore, correctly recorded with accurate information and details.