What phase of the software development process does static testing occur?

Static testing occurs during the phase of the software development process that takes place before code execution. This form of testing involves reviewing and analyzing the software artifacts, such as requirements documents, design specifications, and source code, without actually executing the code. The goal is to identify defects or issues early in the development lifecycle, which can significantly reduce the cost and effort required to fix problems compared to later stages.

By conducting static testing before any code is executed, teams can catch potential errors in requirements or design and ensure that the software is aligned with its intended functionality. This proactive approach allows for corrections to be made when the changes are easier and less costly. Static testing techniques include reviews, inspections, and static code analysis, all of which are integral to supporting software quality assurance efforts before the software is put into action.