In defining exit criteria for a testing project, which combination of two criteria would be the best to use?

Using the percentage of test cases executed alongside the defect trend provides a robust framework for defining exit criteria in a testing project.

When considering exit criteria, it's essential to ensure that testing has been thorough and effective, which is where the percentage of executed test cases comes into play. This metric indicates how much of the planned testing has actually been performed, helping to ensure that significant areas of the application have been tested. If a high percentage of test cases have been executed, it suggests a comprehensive testing effort.

In addition to this, incorporating the defect trend is crucial because it offers insights into the quality of the software being tested over time. Monitoring how defects are discovered or resolved can indicate whether the application is becoming more stable or if existing defects are persisting, suggesting quality issues that need addressing before project closure. A declining trend in defects may demonstrate that the testing process is uncovering issues effectively and that the application is progressing towards meeting quality standards.

Combining these two measures results in a well-rounded exit criteria because it ensures both coverage (through test execution) and quality (through defect monitoring). This approach enables project stakeholders to make informed decisions about whether the product is ready to move forward, based on clear indicators of both testing completeness and quality health.