Software Testing Live Ep 05 - What's in the box?

Talk Description

In this episode, host Ben Dowen is joined by Nataliia Burmei to explore the differences between closed box and open box testing. Together, they unpack classic test design techniques, including equivalence partitioning, boundary value analysis, decision tables, pairwise testing, and state transition testing, illustrating their application in real-world examples.

The pair test live and sketch on a whiteboard while discussing how these techniques can work when you know very little about a system, as well as when you know a lot. They also reflect on when to use these techniques, how to combine them, and why even the basics of testing remain valuable in modern contexts.

This session is part practical demo, part conversation, and full of insights into how you can think critically about inputs, outputs, boundaries, and system behaviour.

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Ben Dowen

Lead Quality Engineer

He/Him

I explore the world of software development and testing. Join me as I continue my adventures, discovering the wonders of quality.

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Nataliia Burmei

Lead Quality Engineer

I am Nat, Lead Quality Engineer who loves travelling, running, quality coffee with a book on the side. Totally unbiased, I love quality.