TEA Audit

Type: Testing gate

Definition

TEA (Test, Evaluate, Assess) is the testing gate used in Stage 5 of the Kelly software factory. Unlike a binary pass/fail, TEA produces three possible outcomes — this nuance matters because not all issues are release-blockers.

Three Outcomes

  • PASS: All requirements met. Ready to ship.
  • PASS-WITH-FOLLOWUPS: Ship now, track deferred issues. Appropriate for minor, low-risk items with clear owners and timelines.
  • REMEDIATE: Fix before release. Used for security issues, data integrity concerns, or broken core functionality.

The TEA Mindset

The TEA audit recognizes that software quality is a spectrum. Blocking a release for a cosmetic misalignment delays value delivery without proportionate risk reduction. The followup mechanism creates accountability without sacrificing momentum.