Abstract
This paper describes an approach to the formalization of existing criteria used in computer systems software testing and proposes a new Reinforced Condition/Decision Coverage (RC/DC) criterion. This new criterion has been developed from the well-known Modified Condition/Decision Coverage (MC/DC) criterion and is more suitable for the testing of safety-critical software where MC/DC may not provide adequate assurance. As a formal language for describing the criteria, the Z notation has been selected. Formal definitions in the Z notation for RC/DC, as well as MC/DC and other criteria, are presented. Specific examples of using these criteria for specification-based testing are considered and some features are formally proved. This characterization is helpful in the understanding of different types of testing and also the correct application of a desired testing regime.
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Received July 2004
Revised November 2005
Accepted November 2005 by J. Derrick, M. Harman and R.M. Herons
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Vilkomir, S., Bowen, J. From MC/DC to RC/DC: formalization and analysis of control-flow testing criteria. Form Asp Comp 18, 42–62 (2006). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00165-005-0084-7
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00165-005-0084-7