Which approach enhances the effectiveness of risk-based testing?

The approach that enhances the effectiveness of risk-based testing is prioritizing testing efforts based on potential risks. This aligns with the core principles of risk-based testing, which focuses on identifying and evaluating risks associated with the software. By understanding the areas of highest risk—such as critical functionality with a high impact on users or parts of the application that are most likely to fail—testers can allocate resources and attention where they will provide the most value. This targeted approach allows teams to maximize their efficiency and effectiveness by prioritizing testing efforts that mitigate the most significant threats to the project's success, ensuring that high-risk areas are thoroughly tested before release.

In contrast, focusing exclusively on high-level requirements might overlook nuances present in lower-tier functions that could harbor significant risks. Including all aspects of the software's functionalities, while thorough, might dilute testing efforts across low-risk areas, potentially leading to inefficiencies. Limiting test execution to only the final builds of the software can also create gaps in risk mitigation, as early testing can help identify issues before they propagate into the final stages of the development process. Therefore, prioritizing efforts based on risk exposure is the most effective strategy within risk-based testing.