The term "test data to test case mapping" refers to the systematic process of assigning specific test data to corresponding test cases. The goal is to enhance the reproducibility, traceability, and meaningfulness of software tests. Test data are structured input values or datasets required to verify certain functions or scenarios of a software application. This mapping ensures that each test case receives the appropriate valid (or intentionally invalid) data to execute meaningfully and reliably.
Test data pool management: Central storage and organization of test data that can be reused across multiple test cases.
Dynamic assignment: Automated or rule-based selection and allocation of suitable test data to specific test cases.
Test data versioning: Managing different versions of test data to support regression testing and historical comparison.
Data consistency validation: Ensuring that the assigned test data meet the requirements and data model of the application under test.
Data masking and anonymization: Protecting personal data through automatic anonymization in test data.
Import and export functions: Supporting the import and export of test data in common formats such as CSV, XML, or database tables.
Coverage control: Analyzing which test cases are covered with test data and identifying gaps.
Integration with test management tools: Linking to test case management systems to automatically synchronize mappings.
A test case for user registration is executed with both valid and invalid email addresses sourced from a central data pool.
For an automated regression run, production data are anonymized and assigned to specific test cases.
A test case for credit assessment uses varying income and credit score levels that have been precisely assigned.
In an ERP test system, master data versions are mapped to historical test cases to perform retrospective analyses.