A Web of Testing

How can we deal with an irregular pattern of demand?

An existing customer developed a web application allowing internal and external users to access information from its product databases. Access to the information was limited to authorised users and restricted by information in the contract between them. Users were also able to access the contract information and highly customised files for download.

The customer required a short term, cost-effective, on-site testing solution at very short notice. The testing schedule required irregular blocks of testing over the course of a number of months.

The Solution

Atrial provided two consultants to provide testing services during the course of the project, as required. The flexibility of resourcing enabled the customer to control the spend on the work.

An analysis was carried out by examining the design documents, interviewing the development team and demonstrations of an earlier version of the application. A test strategy proposal was developed, breaking down the problem into work packages. A test strategy document was presented and approved by the customer.

A detailed test plan was produced for each stage of the project. Each test plan was reviewed and approved with the project manager.

Testing was carried out on the customer site working along side the development team. The test plan was implemented, faults raised, fixes implemented and retesting carried out.

Due to the nature of the development, good communications with the development team were essential. Faults were therefore, discussed and analysed with team members and the project manager. Each fix was discussed prior to implementation and any new "unexpected behaviour" documented. This approach led to an atmosphere of developers and testers working together to release a solid and stable application.