Software Testing Strategy

Beta testing can be considered a form of pre release testing that companies that are engaged in software development undertake prior to official commercial release. The value of beta testing software prior to release is that it allows companies to solicit feedback from a wide variety of end users to either enhance the product or iron out any bugs. This can prevent costly product recalls and minimizes the chance of consumer backlash or a degradation in company or product credibility.

Ironing out development bugs to ensure the product is commercially robust is one of the biggest challenges experienced by software companies. Issuing a pre-release version allows beta testers to operate the software on a variety of different platforms and under real world software operating conditions. The alpha testing stage undertaken by companies prior to beta testing release doesn't always trap all bugs and known problems. Beta testing operates on the premise of "many hands make light work" and allows greater feedback for product improvement from a wider audience. In some cases, Beta testers are compensated with a free version of the commercial release software or will receive a substantial discount on the final product version.

With the advent of the internet, beta testing is now accessible to a wider audience and can be implemented in a reduced time frame. Beta testers can download the software over the internet, install, test and provide critical feedback in a very short space of time using centralized or coordinated web feedback forms. This is the preferred method of major software development corporations, particularly Microsoft who often openly advertise beta programs for their products, to capture feedback from a diverse audience. Beta Testers have the greatest opportunity to influence the final implementation of the software and the best chance of identifying and resolving critical issues before the software is released. That's why major corporations have come to rely so heavily on beta testing.

Beta testing is not just confined to application development. Google is an example of an internet based company that integrates beta tests into its product release framework. Prior to releasing a new product or feature on its platform, beta testing takes place among a few selected candidates that are privy to Google company developments. In the past, Google issues invitations to end users who use other features of the Google Advertising program. An example of programs Google has used Beta testing for include the introduction of video adds, audio adds and the CPA network format. In some instances, projects that do not gain sufficient traction remain in beta test status. The projects are fully functional but receive less attention or marketing impetus from Google.

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