Testing, Evaluating and Maintaining

(Pg 90 -101 of text)

Tasks included are:

1.       testing and evaluating the solution with test data such as

–        volume data – test data (data that is made up – guessing the problems that may arise)

                                                               i.      designed to ensure the system works within the requirements

                                                             ii.      how does the system form with large amounts of data – based on the number of data that has been entered

                                                            iii.      computer programs generate the millions of data

–        simulated data – test data

                                                               i.      Could contain unexpected values – numbers instead of letter or vice versa etc.

                                                             ii.      Replicate operational conditions, e.g. many users, many connections, other processes occurring at the same time.

–        Live data – real data that is encountered in a normal operation of a system.

                                                               i.      Real world data, no one has generated it, it’s what the system works with.

                                                             ii.      E.g. types of data and scenarios that have not yet been predicted that could cause a problem.

2.       checking to see that the original system requirements have been achieved

–        acceptance testing – test to see if the system meets the requirements

–        once the acceptance testing is passed it proceeds to pay the bill

–        often outsources this process

–        those doing the acceptance testing – either the user or the external party

–        focus groups for acceptance testing – expose different groups to the system to receive opinion on data

–        occurs with an agile method where it is ongoing

–        traditional – will be done finally after implementing

3.       trialing and using the operation manual

–        doesn’t just tell you how to use it

–        describes procedures and policies

–        procedures – step by step methods

–        policies – rules or guidelines

4.       reviewing the effect on users of the information system, participants and people within the environment

–        the changing nature of workplace

–        telecommuting:-  more workers are now able to work from home through the internet

–        disadvantages: lack of social skills, blurring with workplace and home which can increase stress

–        advantages: flexibility in work times and childcare arrangements and avoidance of commuting costs and time lost during commuting

–        Social Isolation’

–        Deskilling:  some work previously covered by workers are no longer required, can cause redundancy of jobs

5.       modifying parts of the system where problems are identified

–        After evaluating any problems that are detected need to be altered and modified.