What is the status of a test result called if the actual result does not match the expected result?

When the actual result of a test does not align with the expected result, it indicates that the test has not met the specified criteria for success. This condition is defined as a "Failed" status. In software testing, a failed test signifies that there is likely an issue or defect within the software under test that needs to be addressed.

The outcome of a failed test is crucial for the development and quality assurance processes, as it helps teams identify areas that require further investigation or fixing. This aligns with the fundamental goals of testing, which are to ensure that the software functions as intended and to uncover any discrepancies that could affect user experience or system performance.

In contrast, other statuses such as "Passed," "Inconclusive," and "Pending" indicate different scenarios. A "Passed" status shows that the test met the success criteria, an "Inconclusive" status implies that no definitive conclusion can be drawn from the test results (potentially due to environmental issues or incomplete testing), and "Pending" typically refers to tests that have not yet been executed or are awaiting a decision. Thus, recognizing a "Failed" status is a critical component of effective testing and defect management in Agile methodologies.