There are different stages in a software development process and developers pay utmost attention to each to ensure delivery of quality applications. This is why defect/bug tracking is essential to identify underlying problems in software. Whether it is a minor or major defect, testers need to record, manage, and solve each error to improve the effectiveness of the application. There are different views as to why using a defect management tool is necessary or not. Some experts are of the view that it is not favorable to manage any record as the main purpose is to simply fix the issue as soon as it is identified. However, managers today are looking at the other side of the picture as well and strongly advocating that defect removal process is altogether beneficial to software development.
An organization has to be very careful when picking a bug tracking tool. Let’s have a look at the following six essential features that should be present in a defect management tool:
1. Remote Access
It is preferable choosing a tool that allows remote access, which means you can access the system at any time, using any device and from any location of the world. It is only possible when a bug tracking tool is web-based and supports multiple devices.
2. Multiple Platforms
When finding a defect tracking tool, it is important to check if it supports multiple platforms like e-mails, websites, etc. to submit defects. It must also be able to assist managers when they need to check reports and metrics of the recorded data. A simple, robust, and easy-to-use tool will save the user’s time and improve the quality of the application.
3. Workflow Management
In order to reduce the risks of software failures, different defect tools must be utilized. It is safe to say that there is no application that is completely error/bug-free. However, bugs can be removed and the reliability of applications can be increased. When defects are managed by a tool, it should be designed to manage the workflow efficiently as well. Work must be assigned to the developers, testers, or support experts who rectify these errors.
4. Integration with Other Modules
A key feature that defect tracking tool cannot survive without is its integration with other modules of the software development lifecycle. Integration allows all stakeholders to make changes at various levels before errors are rectified and management can track an application’s release status from a centralized location at any time.
5. Dashboard
Another important feature is the dashboard. A bug tracking tool that provides a flexible dashboard allows users to view and customize all the defects of a project. The dashboard can extract reports better decision making.
A defect management tool is a single platform where all errors are reported and updated by developers, testers, and analysts. These errors cannot be fixed as soon as reported, as there are chances that there will be more upcoming defects. Thus, it is important to track all information regarding these defects. Whether it is a mobile application, website or software, defect management system is used to meet rising challenges to produce efficient applications. The above essential features of a tool can make a difference in helping organizations choose a tracking tool that is the best for their organization.