Software testing metrics are quantitative indicators used to measure the effectiveness, efficiency, and overall health of the testing process. They provide objective data that helps teams understand how well testing activities are progressing and how product quality evolves over time.
Common software testing metrics include test case execution status, defect density, defect leakage, test coverage, pass–fail rates, and mean time to detect or fix defects. These metrics help identify risk areas, highlight bottlenecks, and support data-driven decision-making during development and release cycles.
When used correctly, software testing metrics improve transparency between QA, development, and management teams. They enable better planning, more accurate estimation, and continuous improvement of testing strategies. However, metrics should always be interpreted in context, as relying on numbers alone without understanding underlying causes can lead to misleading conclusions.
Overall, software testing metrics act as a feedback mechanism that guides teams toward higher quality, improved efficiency, and more predictable software delivery.