Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
Traditionally a unit test consists of structural testing which means that we use
our knowledge of how the unit is designed internally for the testing and specifi-
cation testing. We need to perform tests based on the encapsulated state of the
object and the interaction of the operations. This is sometimes called state-based
testing. This may be done both as specification and structural testing (Jacobson
et al.
1992
).
10.10 Acceptance Testing
Acceptance testing evaluates the new system to determine if it meets user require-
ments under operating conditions. When the software and documentation are
deemed stable by the test group, it's time to release the software and documentation
to a user test group to get user feedback (Schach
1999
). A user test group should be
composed of all or a sample of people who will work with the system under
development. There are two types of acceptance testing (Burch
1992
).
10.10.1 Alpha Testing
Alpha testing is conducted in a natural setting with systems professionals in
attendance, usually as observers, recording errors and usage problems. Two
techniques are applicable to alpha testing.
Usability labs: the design of usability labs differ, but the center theme is con-
stant: get a representative sample of the people who will eventually use the
software to do the testing, and place them in a controlled and structured test
environment. A usability lab may be a room with one PC, or a large room divided
and equipped with one-way mirrors, television cameras and several PCs or
workstations.
Usability factors checklist: This checklist can be expanded and tailored. It can
also be used along with usability labs. The usability factors checklist gives users
the opportunity to evaluate the quality of the new software before it is converted
from development to operations. In addition to completing a usability factor
checklist, the user test group must also explain to systems professionals why
factors were rated low if that is the case. For example, why does a user find the
program to be rated low for ease of use? Is it because of poor documentation and
lack of instructions? The user should answer such questions and if possible,
provide suggestions as to how any or all usability factors can be improved.
Alpha testing is the software prototype stage when the software is first able to
run. It will not have all the intended functionality, but it will have core functions
and will be able to accept inputs and generate outputs. An alpha test usually takes
place in the developer's offices on a separate system.
