Software Quality Assurance Practice Exam

What is the primary purpose of conducting code inspections in software development?

1. To run automated test cases

2. To identify potential defects before execution

3. To improve user acceptance testing

4. To replace the need for other testing methods

The correct answer is: To identify potential defects before execution

The primary purpose of conducting code inspections in software development is to identify potential defects before execution. Code inspections involve reviewing the source code in a structured manner, typically performed by a team of developers or peers, to detect issues like coding errors, design flaws, and adherence to coding standards, all before the software is executed. This proactive approach allows teams to catch and address defects early in the development process, significantly reducing the cost and effort needed to fix issues later, when they might become more complex and harder to track down. By having code reviewed before it runs, teams can enhance software quality and improve reliability. The other options focus on different aspects of the development and testing process. Automated test case execution is beneficial for validating software functionality after it has been developed, but it does not involve the early detection of defects that inspections provide. Improving user acceptance testing relates to ensuring that the final product meets user needs, which is an important phase that occurs later in the development cycle. Lastly, while code inspections are valuable, they do not replace the comprehensive approach of various testing methods altogether but rather complement and enhance the overall software quality assurance processes.