https://bugs.kde.org/show_bug.cgi?id=481424
Bug ID: 481424
Summary: Proposal to Clarify Severity Level Definitions to
Enhance Bug Triage Efficiency
Classification: Websites
Product: bugs.kde.org
Version: unspecified
Platform: Debian testing
OS: Linux
Status: REPORTED
Severity: major
Priority: NOR
Component: templates
Assignee: sysad...@kde.org
Reporter: nealheine...@gmail.com
CC: she...@kde.org
Target Milestone: ---
Created attachment 165866
--> https://bugs.kde.org/attachment.cgi?id=165866&action=edit
Example Solution
The current ambiguity in the definitions of severity levels in the bug
reporting system is leading to inefficiencies in bug triage and prioritization:
- Varying Interpretations: What is considered "grave" by one user may only be
"normal" to another, leading to inconsistent bug severity assessments.
- Impact on Developers: While developers might understand the intended severity
levels, the lack of clarity for reporters essentially negates this
understanding, complicating the triage process.
- Default Severity Overuse: Reporters unsure about the correct severity often
default to the system's preset option, barring explicit cases like crashes or
wishlist items. This likely skews the distribution of reported bug severities
and may hide urgent issues among less critical ones.
To address this, I propose taking inspiration from the Debian bug reporting
system, which offers clear, detailed definitions for each severity level.
Specifically, I suggest:
Adding Definitions Directly to the Reporting Form: Incorporate severity level
definitions into the bug reporting interface to guide reporters in their
selection.
- Benefits:
-- Reduces Ambiguity: Clear definitions help ensure that severity levels
are understood and applied consistently by all users.
-- Improves Triage Efficiency: Developers can more quickly and accurately
prioritize bugs based on well-defined severity levels.
-- Enhances System Effectiveness: A more accurate depiction of bug
severities directly contributes to the overall effectiveness of the bug
reporting and resolution process.
I have chosen to categorize this issue as "Major" rather than a "Wishlist" item
because the current lack of clarity compromises the functionality and
efficiency of the bug reporting system. Enclosed are examples from Debian's
approach that could serve as a model for our enhancement.
Thanks for your consideration ☺️
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