Before finishing the first chapter of Software Testing Techniques, it became apparent that this is heavyweight material. What became clear as I continued, is that this is a seminal work. Many subsequent texts on testing have amply drawn from it.

Notable points of coverage include bug taxonomy, flow-graphs and path testing, transaction-flow testing, domain testing, metrics, paths, syntax testing, logic-based testing, states and transitions as well as graph matrices.

In spite of the technical material, let it be noted that this work contains some of the sharpest prose to ever grace the pages of a technical publication. Beizer writes with a sardonic wit and pulls no punches when it comes to bad software engineering practices.

Entrants are likely to be daunted by it, but the experienced practitioner seeking to solidify their technical understanding will find it indispensable. It has particularly detailed coverage of analytical methodologies.

Due to the technical nature of certain areas, the reader without a solid understanding of university-level mathematics would be well advised to skip some sections. For those with the mathematical background and an interest in the deeper science of testing, it provides most interesting reading.

The book defies classification as belonging to either one of the white or black box categories, as it contains extensive information on both approaches. This comes as no surprise as it dates from an era where the distinction was not as clearly defined as it is today. Both unit as well as integration testing - which is often skipped or glossed over in system testing books-is covered in detail.

Beizier takes pains to back his statements with solid references. It is clear that an immense amount of effort has gone into its preparation. Although slightly dated, this book is a landmark work that was far ahead of its time and is still very relevant. It should be read, if only in part, by any serious testing practitioner.

Carel Grovè

What other reviewers say

This book covers all the basic topics of software testing and it is felt that this book is a must for everybody, especially the practitioner. All in all, this is a very good book on software testing that is presented in a thorough and clear manner.

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