Final answer:
When verifying the test basis in the early design tests of the life cycle, the aim is to prevent defects. This process allows for early identification and resolution of issues, aligns with quality assurance, and results in an iterative refinement of the design.
Step-by-step explanation:
When the tester verifies the test basis while designing tests early in the life cycle, the common test objective being achieved is preventing defects. During the early stages of the life cycle, such as during prototyping and the initial design phases, verifying the test basis helps ensure that the design is moving in the right direction. It allows early detection of issues and thus prevents defects from becoming ingrained in the system, which saves time and resources in the long run. Evaluating prototypes helps in refining the design and improving the product prior to the market release. This proactive approach assists in improving the quality and stability of the system. Furthermore, this activity aligns with quality assurance practices, which are central to preventing defects rather than just detecting them post-development. It encourages feedback from various stakeholders, including customers, and supports root cause analysis, which is crucial for identifying real problems and providing avenues for improvement. Additionally, this iterative process often requires refining the design multiple times based on the criteria and constraints, demonstrating the spiral nature of design development in the life cycle.