9.2.4 Testing and evaluating

Question 1

List and describe the 3 levels of testing

Answer 1

1. Module - testing that each module and subroutine functions correctly.
2. Program - testing that the overall program, including associated modules/subroutines, work together as expected.
3. System - testing that the overall system, including all programs and the interfaces between programs.

Question 2

What are the elements included in System Level Testing?

Answer 2

1. Software – The program must work with different operating systems and software on the computer
2. Data – The program must be tested with different volumes and types of data, with expected and unexpected inputs
3. Hardware – The program must be tested at minimum hardware requirements AND above, it should also be tested with external hardware such as printers
4. Personnel and Procedures – The program should cater to users of different technological skill levels and the user interface must be evaluated

Question 3

In the context of testing, what is a driver?

Answer 3

A driver is a section of code that calls the module to be tested (usually not a part of the final code). The driver might generate its own random test data and evaluate the results, or use an existing set of test data (perhaps loaded from a file).

They are used in the Module level of testing.

Question 4

How can live test data be used to ensure that the testing environment reflects the expected environment in which the new system will operate?

Answer 4

• Large File Sizes – Highlights inefficient code and issues associated with data access
• Mix of Transaction Types – Completing transactions in different orders should not cause issues, sometimes problems can arise when multiple programs try to access the same database
• Response Times – Ideal response time is 0.1 and if the wait time is longer, feedback should be provided
• Volume Data (Load Testing) – This can be done with CASE tools and a laboratory of computers
• Existing Systems – Test the effect of the new system on the existing systems in the environment into which it will be installed.

Question 5

What are the 5 components of a testing report?

Answer 5

1. Test requirements - what needs to be tested?
2. Test plan - how are the tested implemented?
3. Test data - what are the test inputs and expected outputs?
4. Test results - do the actual results match the expected results?
5. Recommendations - what needs to be done now?

Question 6

What is a post-implementation review?

Answer 6

A process involving demonstrating the final product to the client to confirm and describe how it meets the requirements.

A smaller project might be an informal process involving a meeting and a desmonstration. For a larger project, a more formal process of acceptance testing may be undertaken.