Software Quality Assurance Practice Exam

Indicate whether the following statement about usability testing is true or false: It is a black-box testing technique.

1. True

2. False

3. It depends on the testing environment.

4. Only partially true.

The correct answer is: True

Usability testing is indeed considered a black-box testing technique because it focuses on assessing the user experience and interaction with the software without delving into its internal workings. In black-box testing, the tester evaluates the functionality of the application based solely on its specifications and requirements, rather than on the code or structure that underpins it. During usability testing, the primary concern is how easily a user can navigate the product, complete tasks, and achieve their goals. Testers observe users as they interact with the system to identify any difficulties or points of confusion, but they do not need to understand the underlying code or algorithms. This aligns perfectly with black-box testing principles, where the inner workings of the product are not taken into consideration. The other options imply various nuances not accurate for usability testing, which is generally straightforward in its approach focusing on user experience rather than technical details. Thus, confirming that usability testing is a black-box testing technique is accurate and underscores its emphasis on the user interface and satisfaction rather than the software’s internal code.