User Acceptance Testing, or UAT, is used prior to the launch of a new product. This examining is conducted under the auspices of a team of the product’s users to determine if it will meet their needs for projected use. The test process follows other kinds of reviews and is done during the last period of a product’s development.
Although not fully understood by some people, UAT can be a very versatile and effective tool in presenting salable products to the consumer. This examination is done by a team that is selected from the product’s end users who are considered in touch with the real world. It is felt that they are excellent representatives and are best able to determine if it will actually meet their requirements. They are able to remain objective in their observations, not influenced by the company involved.
A business analyst is usually engaged for this kind of project. They have the expertise as well as the knowledge to assist in outlining the objectives of the study as well as determining how much time will be required. One of the strategies is often the use of a V model chart, which outlines the steps needed from the requirements of the user to the final determination.
When a business analyst is involved in the UAT they can identify suitable scenarios. They also provide guidance to requirements of the system and what avenues are suitable for examination. As a rule such a person provides only guidance, thus allowing a genuine investigation of the product.
While user teams do the actual inspection, both they and the stakeholders have an interest in the outcome. While not examining the technical aspects, they are involved in determining whether the system or product has an effective use in the business or user world. Before this examination process is begun, unit, integration, and systems viewing will have been completed.
Steps followed for this kind of program include planning the test, designing it, selecting a team to do the testing, the actual process, and documenting any defects and fixing them. Planning is the most important step of the process. It will outline the strategy, describe the key areas, and entry/exit criteria. The actual materials used in this kind of project can vary greatly. Many times there is a checklist of review features, sometimes specific steps to test are outlined.
Appropriate scenarios should be decided upon prior to beginning the planning. Things such as proven requirements, projected success, cost saving or revenue possibilities and high risk, needs to be addressed. Regulatory impact and drive profit are especially important for any product that is about to be released to the general public or to specialized companies.
Business analysts and experts in the field are teaming together to offer guidance to the user teams in designing a project model. They are keeping the language simple and presenting well-identified steps to follow. Common for some time in the software arena, this program is now being used by numerous other companies as well. User Acceptance Testing safeguards a company from losing a great deal of money by protecting them from placing a non-marketable item in the marketplace.
Norman Philips is a business consultant and real estate investor. For more information on user acceptance testing, visit www.piersonrequirementsgroup.com.



