What is a human action that results in an incorrect outcome referred to as?

The term that refers to a human action that results in an incorrect outcome is "error." In software testing, an error specifically denotes the mistake made by a person, which can lead to unintended results in the software's functionality. Understanding this concept is crucial for identifying the root cause of issues that arise during the software development process.

Errors can occur during different phases, such as requirements gathering, design, coding, or testing. When an error happens, it might cause a defect, which is a manifestation of the error in the software product. However, the key distinction is that an error is the action or decision made by a human, while a defect is the flaw found in the product after that erroneous action.

This understanding highlights that addressing human errors is important for improving overall software quality and minimizing subsequent defects during the product lifecycle, making it essential for Agile testers to recognize and analyze these errors effectively.