Testing: Level 6

Determines testing policy, and owns the supporting processes. Takes responsibility for the management of all testing activities within a development or integration project or programme. Manages all risks associated with the testing and takes preventative action when any risks become unacceptable. Assesses and advises on the practicality of testing process alternatives. Identifies improvements to the process and assists in their implementation.

Testing: Level 5

Coordinates and manages planning of the system and acceptance tests within a development or integration project or programme. Takes responsibility for integrity of testing and acceptance activities and coordinates the execution of these activities. Provides authoritative advice and guidance on any aspect of test planning and execution. Defines and communicates the test strategy for the project. Manages all phases of testing, including plans, resources, costs, timescales, test deliverables and auditability. Assesses suppliers' development and testing capabilities. Selects project testing standards for all phases, influencing all parties to conform to those standards. Manages the client relationship with respect to all testing matters. Identifies process improvements, contributes to corporate testing standards and definition of best practice

Testing: Level 4

Defines and creates test cases from analysis of both functional and non-functional specifications (such as reliability, efficiency, usability, maintainability and portability). Produces test scripts, materials and regression test packs to test new and amended software or services. Specifies requirements for environment, data, resources and tools. Interprets, executes and documents complex test scripts using agreed methods and standards. Records and analyses actions and results, and maintains a defect register. Reviews test results and modifies tests if necessary. Provides reports on progress, anomalies, risks and issues. Produces reports on system quality and metrics on test cases.

Testing: Level 3

Reviews requirements and specifications, and defines test requirements for smaller projects. Creates simple test cases and test scripts. Interprets and executes moderately complex test scripts, mapping back to pre-determined criteria, recording and reporting outcomes. Provides specialist advice to support others. Analyses and reports test activities and results. Identifies and reports issues and risks.

Testing: Level 2

Defines test requirements for smaller projects. Creates test scripts and supporting data, working to the specifications provided. Interprets, executes and records simple test cases in accordance with established plans. Analyses and reports test activities and results. Identifies and reports issues and risks.