An iterative life cycle model does not attempt to start with a complete requirements specification. Instead, development begins by specifying and implementing just part of the software, which can then be reviewed to identify further requirements. This process is then repeated, producing a new version of the software for each model cycle.
Iterative testing refers to making small, gradual changes or updates to a product based on insights.
e.g., test results and user feedback from previous changes and testing them against predefined baseline metrics. It is commonly practised in a UI and UX context but can be used in the context of product management.
Disadvantages of the Iterative model
Each phase of an iteration is rigid with no overlaps.
Costly system architecture or design issues may arise because not all requirements are gathered up front for the entire lifecycle.
Benefits of Iterative testing
Achieve and Test Easily - Iterative testing enables product teams to make incremental, evidence-based changes to a feature or product. It allows them to roll changes out quickly and then gather user feedback to shape product decisions. Because the changes aren’t sweeping ones, they are easier to manage and test.
Recognize Issues Early - Gradual tweaks made to the product help product teams identify and eliminate bugs or usability issues and correct them early on. Getting ahead enables an organization to deliver a better product to users.
Better insight - Iterative testing gives product managers actionable insights via test results and user feedback, which they can use to improve the product.
Deliver a Better Product - Product managers want to achieve product excellence by developing a significant or impactful product or feature and getting it to market quickly. Iterative testing helps product managers get to the heart of how users will engage with a product. It gives insight into whether or not the product hits the desired mark.
Testing your product gradually in iterative steps allows you to identify the usability strengths and weaknesses early on and adjust accordingly—potentially saving you resources in the long run. It helps pave the way for a streamlined, efficient experience, which makes for a successful product.
Sustain Flexibility - Making small, gradual changes to a product helps product managers adapt to users’ changing needs. They can keep close tabs on how users react to and feel about those changes. These valuable insights, in turn, help guide future product decisions.
Get Stakeholder Buy-In - Because iterative testing is evidence-based, i.e., real data and user feedback, product decisions are more comfortable to justify. This ultimately helps product managers make their cases with stakeholders.
Best Practices for Iterative Testing
Summarise objectives and define the criteria for each testing phase.
Test as early as possible.
Track all usability issues.
Don’t lose sight of your product vision and product strategy.
Keep changes small and manageable, i.e., don’t try to solve everything at once.
Engage the entire team to help build customer empathy.
Document all iterations and the reasons behind each change.
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