Which of the following is a common test metric often used to monitor both test preparation and execution?

The selection of test case status as a common test metric is appropriate because it provides a clear view of the progress and readiness of the testing process. Monitoring test case status helps teams understand which test cases are ready for execution, which are executed, which have passed, and which have failed. This not only facilitates effective communication among team members but also assists in identifying any bottlenecks or areas that require additional focus during both the preparation and execution phases of testing.

By maintaining an updated overview of test case statuses, teams can make informed decisions regarding resource allocation, prioritization of testing activities, and adjustments to testing schedules as needed. This metric directly corresponds to both the preparation of tests, as it shows the status of the test artifacts, and their execution, as it reflects how many tests have completed and what their results are. Hence, it is a fundamental and widely used metric in test management during the lifecycle of a software project.