User Acceptance Testing (UAT) is a crucial phase in the software development lifecycle where end-users test the system to ensure it meets their needs and requirements. This testing is typically conducted after the system has passed all other testing phases, such as unit testing and integration testing.
Characteristics
– End-User Involvement: UAT is performed by actual users who will be using the system in their daily operations.
– Real-World Scenarios: Tests are based on real-world scenarios to validate the system’s functionality in practical situations.
– Feedback Loop: Users provide feedback on the system’s performance, usability, and any issues they encounter.
– Acceptance Criteria: Specific criteria must be met for the system to be accepted, often outlined in advance.
Examples
– Software Application: A company develops a new customer relationship management (CRM) system. Before going live, a group of sales representatives tests the application to ensure it meets their workflow needs and provides the necessary features.
– Website Launch: Before launching a new e-commerce website, a group of customers is invited to navigate the site, make purchases, and provide feedback on their experience to ensure it is user-friendly and functional.
– Mobile App: A team develops a mobile app for tracking fitness goals. They conduct UAT with a group of fitness enthusiasts to confirm that the app is intuitive and effectively tracks their progress.