Formal Review

Formal review is a a process under which static white box testing is performed.

The four essential elements of formal review are :

1.Identify Problems:The goal is to find problems with software such as  missing items,wrong items.The criticism should be directed to the code and not the person who has written the code.

2.Follow the rules:Fixed set of rules are to be followed.It may be how many lines of code(LOC) is to be reviewed in the prescribed time(like 2 hours).Make a rule for writing the comments etc.

3.Prepare:Every participant must prepare for and contribute to the review.Different reviews have different roles.

4.Write a Report:A written report is prepared which contains the results of the review.The report may contain information like how many problems where found,where and when.