CSA Test Selection Compass

Problem addressed

Test format is frequently chosen by procedure or habit before the failure and evidence need are understood.

Limitation of existing practice

A single mandated protocol style can create repeatable evidence for the wrong behavior.

Proposed method: inputs and steps

1. Assess consequence and detectability.
2. Determine whether the expected result is deterministic.
3. Evaluate novelty, configurability, and interaction complexity.
4. Select the primary method.
5. Add a complementary method where uncertainty remains.

Decision outputs

• Test-method decision
• Charter or script outline
• Coverage rationale

Worked example

A deterministic dose calculation receives scripted boundary tests; its surrounding clinical review workflow receives a time-boxed exploratory charter for interruptions and conflicting states.

When to use—and when not to

Use when: Planning functional and process-level assurance.

Do not use as-is when: The activity is supplier qualification, security testing, or data migration reconciliation requiring a specialized method.

Limitations

The compass guides selection; it does not calculate risk or replace competent judgment.

Inspection questions

• Why was this method best suited to the failure?
• How was exploratory evidence controlled?
• What was deliberately not retested?