The Software Development Life Cycle - Software Testing: Testing Across the Entire Software Development Life Cycle - page 54

1. If signifi cant changes are considered to be necessary, an on-the-spot feasibil-

ity study can be conducted to determine whether to scrap the project or repeat
the analysis, design, and Preliminary construction stages.
If only minimal changes are identifi ed, the project reverts back to the analysis
stage and the changes are incorporated in the design.
When the users and project sponsors accept the module as demonstrated, the
next step is the Final construction stage.

2.

3.

2.9 THE FINAL CONSTRUCTION STAGE

This is the stage where all of the components of the new system are brought together
to verify readiness for installation and operation. Eight activities are performed.

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.

Construct and test production-ready software.
Construct and test a production-ready database or warehouse data repository.
Install any required new hardware and connectivity.
Make available the physical facility.
Test the hardware confi guration.
Complete the documentation.
Gain user acceptance to “go live.''
Train participants and users.

With so many activities going on usually at the same time, it is important that they be
well planned and managed. By virtue of being close to the cutover to the operational
system, it is possible to plan the remaining tasks with considerable accuracy. It is
common to revise the original implementation plan at this point to take advantage
of the additional, more precise planning information available from completing the
other development phases.

2.9.1 Construct and Test Production-Ready Software

The tests that are conducted of the entire system are called system tests . One purpose
of the tests is to validate the integrated modules to ensure that they function as a sys-
tem. A second purpose of the tests is to validate that the new system will correctly
interact/interface with other fi rm systems as needed. The goal of system testing is to
locate system errors before the system is put into production.

2.9.2 Construct and Test a Production-Ready Database
or Warehouse Data Repository

The creation of a database or warehouse data repository can be as challenging as
creation of software. This is especially true for such organizations as insurance