What are 'key performance indicators' (KPIs) in quality assurance?

Key performance indicators (KPIs) in quality assurance refer to quantifiable metrics that are used to assess the effectiveness and efficiency of the QA processes. KPIs provide a way to measure performance against specific objectives, allowing teams to quantify the quality of their products and processes.

By using KPIs, organizations can track and analyze data such as defect rates, test coverage, and time spent on testing. This data is crucial for making informed decisions about where improvements are needed and understanding how well the quality assurance efforts are performing. The use of quantifiable metrics allows for objective evaluation and benchmarking over time, ensuring that quality goals are met and improved upon systematically.

The other options, while related to aspects of team or individual performance, do not encapsulate the essence of KPIs in quality assurance. For example, qualitative assessments of team morale do not provide measurable data about product quality. Similarly, while knowing the total number of tests conducted can provide context, it does not necessarily indicate the effectiveness of the QA process. Personal performance evaluations are more focused on individual contributions rather than the overall effectiveness of the QA practices. Thus, quantifiable metrics are central to understanding and driving quality assurance goals.