Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
Example Memo to the Recipient of Alpha Software:
The ______________ (software name), version _____ is a very early “alpha” release of the software.
This means that the software is at the prototype stage when it is first able to run. It does not have
all the intended functionality, but it does have core functions and will be able to accept inputs
and generate outputs.
Please provide detailed description of identified problems and provide feedback on specific aspects of
the software. Kindly provide input while there is still time to make significant changes as the software
design evolves.
We ask for your patience with difficulties or problems that you may encounter. Our objective is to
hear about these from you during this evaluation, and most of all to obtain your views on the software
design approach. In-depth software reliability testing, installation testing, and documentation testing
are done at alpha test time, as the software is only a prototype.
Thank you for your participation.
Fig. 10.1
Sample alpha testing transmittal memo
If any end-users or customers will receive software for alpha evaluation, or if
software will be run on customer equipment, be sure to send it first to Corporate
Software Quality. This prior review and approval is required. Be sure to discuss
any exceptions with the Software Quality Manager for your sector.
All software and user documentation in any lifecycle stage must include the
Copyright, Ordering Information and Disclaimer Notice elements. In order not to
delay project schedules, Corporate Software Quality:
• Uses e-mail notes rather than structured reports on alpha evaluations.
• Works with project managers to complete alpha evaluations within the time
needed.
10.10.1.3 Common Problems
• Customer expectations surrounding Alpha software have not been appropriately
set and customers are disappointed at the limited functionality and problems
encountered.
• Software sent to users or run on customer equipment is not tested by Corporate
Software Quality beforehand (EPRI
2006
).
10.10.2 Beta Testing
Beta testing is similar to alpha testing, except that no systems professionals are
present during user acceptance testing. In addition to employing a usability factors
