Which of the following is a benefit of test independence?

Test independence refers to the practice of having individuals who are not directly involved in the development of the software conduct tests. One of the primary benefits of this approach is that it helps to avoid author bias when defining tests and assessing their effectiveness.

When a developer tests their own code, there is a natural tendency to favor their implementation and perhaps overlook certain flaws or defects. This is due to the emotional investment and familiarity they have with their own code. An independent tester, on the other hand, brings a fresh perspective and can evaluate the functionality without being swayed by the nuances of the development process. They can probe deeper, ask questions that the developers might not consider, and thus help identify issues that could affect the quality of the software.

This unbiased approach enhances the likelihood of discovering defects, ensuring that tests cover a broader scope and are not influenced by the development team's assumptions or preconceptions. By promoting objectivity, test independence plays a crucial role in ensuring more reliable and thorough testing outcomes.