Which term describes the states a defect goes through until it is resolved?

The term that accurately describes the states a defect goes through until it is resolved is the "defect life cycle." This concept encompasses the various stages that a defect experiences from the moment it is identified until it is completely resolved.

Typically, the defect life cycle includes several phases, such as identification, logging, assignment, resolution, retesting, and closure. Each phase represents a different state in the life of the defect, illustrating the progression and tracking of defects throughout the testing and development processes. Understanding the defect life cycle is crucial for effective defect management and ensuring that all issues are properly addressed.

Other terms, while related to managing defects, do not specifically denote the various states a defect navigates. For instance, defect mapping refers to visual representations or strategies associated with tracking defects, while defect management encompasses broader processes related to handling defects, including monitoring and reporting. The defect resolution process focuses specifically on the steps taken to fix a defect but does not capture the entire sequence of states throughout the defect's existence.