What does the term effectiveness refer to in software testing?

Effectiveness in software testing refers to the ability to achieve intended results, meaning that the testing process successfully identifies defects or issues that the software may have. This concept underscores the goal of testing, which is not just to execute test cases but to ensure that the software meets its specified requirements and performs as expected in real-world scenarios.

When a test is effective, it means that the tests conducted are aligned with the requirements and objectives of the application being tested, resulting in the detection of significant defects. This can involve verifying that the right functionality is present and that the software behaves correctly under various conditions. Ultimately, effectiveness is about finding the right issues that could affect the user's experience, ensuring quality and reliability before the software is released.

In contrast, other options focus on different aspects of testing. Efficiency involves how well resources are utilized during the testing process, speed indicates how quickly defects can be resolved, and thoroughness pertains to how comprehensive the tests are in covering various scenarios or requirements. While these aspects are important, they do not directly define what effectiveness means in the context of software testing.