Defect Classification

HeadlineDescription
CriticalWould cause faiilure of complete system, for all users, until fixed. No work-around.
SevereFunctionality loss for all or many usrs, without any acceptable word-around. Rest of the system can be used.
MajorWould result in aspects of the system being unusable, but otherwise generally remains operable. Would cause failure for a relatively low number of users.
MinorAvoidable with a work-around. Rarely causes failure for users.
InsignificantMinor infringement of specification. Does not affect usability of the system. Functional loss which can be tolerated in the medium to long term.

-- Frank Dean - 20 Mar 2004