User Acceptance Testing -Process Explained With Example 2024

User Acceptance Testing is a formal way to ensure that the new system or process does actually meet the user requirements. Each module to be implemented will be subject to one or more User Acceptance Tests (UAT) before being ‘signed off’ as meeting user needs.

The time required will vary depending on the extent of the functionality to be tested. The test schedule will allow time for discussion and issue resolution.

Thus, I can say a user acceptance test is a chance to completely test business processes implemented in the application or software.

Main Objectives of the user acceptance testing:

Validate system set-up for transactions and user access
Confirm use of system in performing business processes
Verify performance on business critical functions
Confirm integrity of converted and additional data, for example values that appear in a look-up table
Assess and sign off go-live readiness

What is the purpose of UAT?

The scope of each user acceptance test will vary depending on which business process is being tested. In general however, tests will cover the following broad areas:

A number of defined test cases using quality data to validate end-to-end business processes.
A comparison of actual test results against expected results
A meeting/discussion forum to evaluate the process and facilitate issue resolution.

Need of User Acceptance Testing

User Acceptance Testing (UAT) is an essential component of any software development project. It allows those who will be utilizing the software to evaluate its functionality and ensure it meets their requirements.

UAT is essential for many reasons:

It is critical to ensure that the software app is functional and meets the needs of the business.
This is beneficial since it ensures that the software adds value to the company and its consumers.
It is critical since it guarantees that the software satisfies high standards and does not have any serious problems that could negatively impact the user experience.
Users are given the opportunity to provide feedback on the programme during UAT, which aids in deciding what needs to be changed or fixed.
UAT facilitates the establishment of trust in the software application. Involving users in testing encourages them to have a sense of ownership over the product, potentially leading to increased user satisfaction and prolonged use.

Different Types of UAT

User Acceptance Testing (UAT) is an integral component of ensuring that software functions as intended. UAT serves to verify that the software meets the requirements and expectations of users.

Alpha testing: Internal testing performed by developers and testers to identify errors and problems during the early phases of development.
Beta testing: is performed by a group of people outside of the company to see how the software performs in real life.
Contract Acceptance Testing: Testing performed to ensure that the software fulfils the specifications specified in the contract.
Operational Acceptance Testing: Testing performed to ensure that the software performs as expected.

Regression testing vs. UAT: Goals and techniques

Regression testing involves verifying that changes made to a software application do not adversely affect its functionality. User Acceptance Testing (UAT) entails having end-users of the software assess it to ascertain if it meets their requirements and expectations.

The primary objectives of regression testing are to ensure the application is stable, dependable, and free from defects following any alterations. For user acceptance testing (UAT), the aim is to verify that the software meets all business specifications, exhibits high quality, and provides an optimal user experience.

Regression testing involves executing automated scripts, conducting manual tests, and employing tools such as code coverage analysis and defect tracking. User Acceptance Testing (UAT) entails performing real-world scenarios, assessing the software in various environments, and providing feedback on the user interface and overall user experience.

How to Perform User Acceptance Testing:

UAT Planning: The first thing to do in the UAT process is to figure out what needs to be tested, what the goals are, and how successful it should be. This includes knowing who will use it, where they’ll use it, and when they need to have it done by.
Designing User Acceptance Test Cases: The testing team should devise methods to evaluate the software’s performance in actual conditions. This entails identifying potential scenarios where the software could be utilized, recording those situations as “test cases,” and determining the expected outcomes for each one.
Creation team for UAT: It is essential to select the appropriate personnel for User Acceptance Testing (UAT). The team should comprise individuals who utilize the product, represent those who will be utilizing it, and comprehend the business requirements.
Executing Test Cases: Once the test cases have been created, the testing team should run them according to the planned out scenarios. The testers should keep track of what happened and report any issues they find while testing.
Defect Logging: Testers should document any issues encountered during testing, categorizing them according to severity. The development team requires all relevant information to address the issues.
Resolving the issues/bug fixing: Once any issues have been identified, the manufacturer should address them promptly. The testers should verify that the problems have been resolved before re-examining the affected components.
Sign Off: The final step in the UAT process is to obtain approval from the intended users. This serves to demonstrate that the program meets all requirements and provides a satisfactory experience.

User Acceptance Testing (UAT) is essential in order to ensure that the software functions as intended and facilitates user productivity.

Participants of UAT

User Acceptance Testing (UAT) is a collaborative process between the customer and project team. The UAT team typically consists of individuals from various backgrounds who are able to provide diverse perspectives and experiences. The two primary components of the UAT team are:

The customer team:

The customer’s technology team, users of the software, managers and those responsible for the application typically comprise this group. For instance, if a program is intended for HR purposes, then the head of HR could be in charge. Users can provide useful feedback regarding whether or not it functions properly and meets their requirements. The customer’s tech team ensures that the program is compatible with existing systems.

The project team:

This group comprises the project manager, tech lead, testing team, and business analyst. The project manager oversees the User Acceptance Testing (UAT) process to ensure its smooth operation.

The tech lead is responsible for the technical aspects of the software application to guarantee proper function. The testing team performs tests and reports any discrepancies.

The UAT team works together to ensure that the software meets customer needs and expectations for the best user experience.

The business analyst offers insight into what must be done to ensure customers are satisfied with the product. It is important to have a diverse set of people who can offer insightful criticism and viewpoints on the programme.

Roles and Responsibilities:

It is imperative to discuss the primary responsibilities of both the UAT and project teams in order to ensure a successful UAT process. The following outlines the tasks each team must complete:

UAT Team:

The UAT team is responsible for making sure the project team’s test cases get done. These are some of the things they do:

The UAT team must ensure that all features have been tested. This is essential to guarantee the customer receives what they expect from the application.
All tests must be conducted using sample data as input and results must be verified. Additionally, all data used in each test and its corresponding results should be documented for future reference.
The UAT team is required to document any issues encountered during testing and collaborate with the project team to resolve them. This ensures that the program functions as intended and users have a satisfactory experience.
All tests must be signed off on via test sheets, which serves as evidence that all tests have been conducted correctly and conform to customer requirements.
The UAT team should identify necessary modifications to the current processes and ensure that all relevant personnel are apprised of such changes. This is essential in order to guarantee the optimal functioning and usability of the software for customers.

Project Team:

The project team is in charge of getting everything ready for the tests and helping with any testing problems. Here’s what they do:

The project team is in charge of ensuring that all test cases are ready. This entails working with the client and business users to ensure that the tests cover all of their requirements.
The project team must be available to deal with any problems that develop during testing and work with the UAT team to fix them.
The project team must make suggestions for changes to business procedures. These modifications are required to ensure that the software application meets customer needs and is user-friendly.
To ensure that the software performs as intended and delivers a satisfying user experience, the project team must monitor and handle any problems that develop during testing, taking prompt action to rectify them.

The UAT team and project team must collaborate to ensure the software application functions as intended and is user-friendly. Each party should be aware of their respective responsibilities and provide mutual assistance in order to meet the objective.

How to Make Your UAT Even More Effective

User Acceptance Testing (UAT) is a critical component of the software development process. Its purpose is to ensure that the software created meets the required specifications and functions correctly.

UAT can also detect any potential problems or bugs in the software, thereby saving time, money and resources in the long run. The following tips may be employed to optimize UAT:

Before you begin a UAT, be sure you understand what is expected of you.
Establish clear objectives and success criteria so that everyone is on the same page.
Involve end users in the process since they know how the programme should work from their perspective.
The use of test automation technologies can be beneficial in terms of time and cost savings.
Automation tools can carry out repetitive operations such as running tests to assure the proper operation of software components.
Furthermore, these technologies may track changes in software over time and compare different versions.
In order to track the status of software, test results must be documented.
This allows any problems or areas for improvement to be recognised before the launch, guaranteeing a smooth transition and an optimal user experience.

User Acceptance Testing Best Practices for Management

Managers should bear in mind the importance of user acceptance testing when developing software. This process ensures that the software meets the requirements of its intended users. The following tips should be considered when conducting UAT:

It is essential to plan User Acceptance Testing (UAT) promptly at the commencement of the project in order to ensure sufficient time for testing and rectifying any issues.
It is imperative to involve those who will be utilizing the software in order to guarantee that their requirements are met.
Clarity is paramount; all parties involved must be aware of what needs to be tested, what expectations are set, and when deadlines need to be achieved.
Instruct individuals on how to use the software and execute User Acceptance Testing (UAT).
Monitor any issues that arise during UAT and address them promptly. Record all actions taken and their outcomes for future reference.

Tools for UAT Testing

There are numerous tools available for conducting User Acceptance Testing (UAT), including but not limited to:

TestRail: This tool provides teams with the capability to manage and monitor their testing endeavors.
JIRA: This project management tool facilitates User Acceptance Testing (UAT) and issue tracking.
UserTesting: This platform provides a means for conducting user research and testing.
Selenium: An open-source tool for automating web browser testing is available.
Applitools: A platform that uses Artificial Intelligence to test how web and mobile apps look is now available!

User Acceptance Testing Examples Guidelines

Here are some guidelines for conducting user acceptance testing:

The desired results of User Acceptance Testing (UAT) must be identified.
The tests should be written in such a way that they replicate genuine programme operation, including real data and scenarios.
Users can provide comments on the software by participating in the testing process.
Furthermore, it is critical to ensure that the testing environment is representative of what would be encountered when utilising the software in production; this allows for the rapid resolution of any issues that develop.
All issues that arise during testing must be documented.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who should be involved in User Acceptance Testing (UAT)?

The UAT team should include project group and end-user representatives, such as IT workers, business personnel, application owners, actual users, project managers, technical leads, business analysts, and testing teams. End-user involvement is critical to ensuring that the programme satisfies their needs.

What is UAT testing in agile?

In an Agile setting, User Acceptance Testing (UAT) is a means of ensuring that software performs as intended and fulfils customer expectations. This type of testing is often performed at the end of development, allowing any faults to be recognised and rectified before the final product is released.

What is UX vs UAT testing?

UX testing and UAT testing are two distinct types of software development tests. UX testing evaluates how user-friendly the programme is, whether it satisfies the needs of the users, and how appealing the design is. UAT testing determines whether the software accomplishes what it is designed to do and provides what was asked.

Wrapping Up

User acceptance testing is an important part of software development, but it requires good management practises, appropriate tools, and defined testing processes to ensure efficiency and accuracy. These steps will ensure a smooth UAT process.

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Rahnuma Tasnim

Rahnuma is a technical content writer at software testing stuff. A software engineer by degree and a dynamic content creator by passion, she brings to table over 3 years of writing experience in tech niche. Combining her enthusiasm for writing and technology, she loves to share her thoughts on the latest tech trends.

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