Which pairs of approaches are most likely used when developing a test strategy?

The selection of the test specification approach and the failure-based approach as a pair used in developing a test strategy is particularly relevant due to the nature of how these approaches contribute to a comprehensive testing framework.

The test specification approach focuses on defining and organizing the tests based on specifications or requirements. It aims to ensure that all aspects of the system are considered and validated through structured and formalized test cases. This thorough examination ensures coverage of requirements and can lead to identifying defects early in the development process.

On the other hand, the failure-based approach emphasizes learning from past failures to inform the testing process. This method utilizes historical defect data and failure patterns to guide test design, helping testers understand where previous issues occurred so that they can be targeted in future testing. By analyzing areas with high failure rates, it becomes possible to prioritize testing efforts, allocate resources more efficiently, and effectively mitigate the risk of similar issues arising in the current development.

Combining these two approaches leads to a well-rounded test strategy. The structured coverage from the test specification approach ensures all functionalities are assessed, while the insights gained from the failure-based approach help concentrate testing on the most critical areas. This synergy ultimately enhances the effectiveness and efficiency of the testing process, which is essential in delivering quality software.