In the context of TMMi and test improvement programs, an indirect benefit refers to outcomes that are not directly tied to the technical improvement of the testing process but affect the overall success of the organization in less measurable ways.
Increased personnel motivation is considered an indirect benefit of a test improvement program because it boosts team morale and engagement, leading to better productivity in the long run. This is different from direct benefits such as improvements in defect detection or test execution lead-time, which are quantifiable metrics directly related to the testing process.
TMMi Reference:
Direct benefits such as defect detection rates and test execution speed are frequently mentioned in TMMi as measurable outcomes from process improvement efforts.
Indirect benefits, like improved motivation, are acknowledged as part of the cultural and organizational improvements that can come from a well-executed test improvement strategy.