What is defined as a test design technique?

A test design technique is best characterized as a structured method to derive test cases from test bases. This definition focuses on the systematic approach taken to create test cases based on requirements, specifications, and other forms of documentation. By using a test design technique, testers can ensure that their test cases are thorough and effective, covering various scenarios that the software may encounter.

These techniques can include various strategies, such as equivalence partitioning, boundary value analysis, decision table testing, state transition testing, and exploratory testing, among others. Each method helps in identifying different aspects of the software under test, thus enhancing test coverage and increasing the chances of discovering defects.

In contrast, the other options describe different aspects of the testing process. Evaluating the test team’s performance relates to performance assessment rather than test case design. Automation tools are useful for executing tests but do not inherently design test cases. Lastly, tracking defects involves managing and reporting issues found during testing rather than generating or deriving test cases from a test base. Therefore, the focus of a test design technique aligns specifically with the creation and structuring of test cases.