So, the test plan is a living document, but you have to have the basics of a test plan complete before you start in on test cases, right?

Nope.

The only document you need first is the test strategy. And that doc can read:

1. perform a number of tests, and write them up as test cases

2. figure out ways to group test cases together

3. write up the test plan based on how the test cases can be grouped.

4. repeat.

I wouldn't go too long without a test plan, as it provides an overview that can be reviewed for holes, duplication of efforts, etc.

  11:00:21 PM    

Do many folks go into testing because they won't be held accountable for the quality of the product? After all, they didn't make the bugs . . .

How many testing organizations take away this safety net and hold testers accountable for their actual work?

I hope the organization I build remains firmly in the latter category.  9:29:29 AM