Alpha and Beta testing is conducted to obtain the confidence needed to launch a product to the public. In this blog, we are going to look into what Alpha and Beta testing is and how to go through the process.
What is Alpha Testing?
As per the ISTQB’s definition, Alpha testing is simulated or actual operational testing conducted in the developer’s test environment, done by those in roles outside the development organization.
Alpha Testing is conducted before the software is released to the public. It is conducted by internal team members, like business analysts and others, who were not directly involved in the development cycle of this product/project.
How to Conduct Alpha Testing?
Here, we are going to look at the procedure to conduct Alpha testing.
- Collect and review the functional requirements with the product documentation.
- After reviewing, clarify the questions regarding the functional requirements.
- Design Alpha test cases.
- Review the Test cases for coverage, traceability, and the essential features of the product.
- Once the product is ready for Alpha testing, execute the designed Alpha test cases.
- Prepare the Alpha test report.
- Alpha test formal sign off.
The below picture shows the Alpha testing procedure:
Alpha testing helps to identify the show stopper and the basic workflow bugs in the early stages of the development life cycle. It helps to inspire confidence in knowing the product is functional, so it can be handed over to Beta testing.
What is Beta Testing?
As per the ISTQB’s definition, Beta testing is simulated or actual operational testing conducted at an external site, done by those in roles outside the development organization.
Beta testing is conducted prior to the launch of a new product and after the completion of Alpha testing. It is done by the users who have previously agreed to adapt to the new changes. In short, it is conducted by the actual users in the real environment.
How to Conduct Beta Testing?
The procedure to conduct Beta testing is as follows:
- Select the target platforms
- Invite Beta testers
- Select Beta testers within the various environments
- Collect feedback
- Evaluate and classify the outcomes of Beta testing
- Reward Beta testers
The below picture shows the Beta testing procedure:
Beta testing helps the team to understand the possible success rate of the product, based on real user’s feedback/suggestions. It also ensures the product’s readiness for production release.
I hope this blog helps to explain more about conducting the Alpha testing and Beta testing processes. Apart from this, you can leverage a test management tool to make you smarter and get things done sooner, in a systematic way.
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