Software Test Step Reordering for Root Cause Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Identifying and addressing the root cause of errors in software test programs is complex and time-consuming, often leading to delayed validation of bug fixes due to manual reordering of program steps and inefficient allocation of time to high-risk sections.
Innovation Solution
A machine and algorithm that automatically reassign the execution order of program steps based on fail/pass performance during evaluation runs, using a microprocessor to classify, evaluate, and rearrange the position numbers of program steps, prioritizing failing steps for earlier execution in subsequent runs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If manual reordering of program steps is performed to identify root causes of errors, then the search for root causes can be conducted, but the process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary classification of program steps into high and low priority groups before execution. Failing steps are automatically repositioned to the beginning of the execution sequence in subsequent runs, allowing root cause identification to start with the most problematic areas without manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The system evaluates the performance of each program step during execution and uses this feedback to automatically reorder steps for the next evaluation run. Steps that fail are identified and repositioned based on their performance metrics, creating a continuous improvement loop that accelerates root cause detection.
2Productivity
If program steps are manually reordered to prioritize high-risk sections, then time allocation to critical sections can be improved, but the process is inefficient and slow
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically performs the reordering of program steps based on their own performance evaluation. Each program step is classified and repositioned autonomously without requiring manual intervention, making the system self-optimizing and significantly reducing the time needed for prioritization.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the execution parameters by dynamically adjusting the position numbers of program steps based on their fail/pass performance. This parameter change automates the prioritization process and accelerates validation of bug fixes by focusing computational resources on the most problematic steps.
3Reliability
If evaluation runs are performed on all program steps in sequential order, then complete coverage is achieved, but critical errors may go unaddressed within time limits
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments program steps into high priority and low priority groups based on their performance evaluation. This segmentation allows the system to focus evaluation resources on critical failing steps while maintaining the option to execute lower priority steps, ensuring reliable error detection within time constraints.
Solution Approach 2:
The execution order of program steps is made dynamic rather than static. The position numbers are automatically adjusted between evaluation runs based on performance feedback, allowing the system to adaptively prioritize critical errors and maintain high reliability while reducing time to address them.
Data Source
AI summary
A machine and methods for reassign the execution order of program steps of a multi-step test program is disclosed. In an embodiment a machine for evaluating an error in a software program includes a microprocessor coupled to a memory, wherein the microprocessor is programmed to evaluate the error by (a) providing program steps of the software program, (b) assigning a position number to each program step, (c) performing an evaluation run on the program steps, (d) evaluating a performance of each program step, (e) rearranging the position number of each program step based on the performance of each program step, and (f) repeating steps (c)-(e).