The benefits of user acceptance testing

User acceptance testing is an important part of the software development lifecycle. Expert Karen N. Johnson explains why UAT is beneficial for testers, users and virtually everyone involved in a software project.

So we've been involved in system testing of different applications and have acquired good knowledge of each of the applications. Now we would like move into the user acceptance testing area. UAT was traditionally being done by BSAs -- short test cycle once system testing is over and most often UAT test cases are derived from system test cases themselves. One question given to us is about what difference or value we will bring on board in terms of test cases or coverage in UAT. Can you help me on this?

If I understand your situation clearly, you and your team know several applications well and have been testing the applications. Now you'll be directing user acceptance testing as well and need to explain what benefit you and your team can provide to UAT.

Let me share details of one of my experiences and then answer your questions more directly. I was in a similar situation once and worked directly with users through UAT. I was able to teach the users more about the application. Once the users were able to see more intricacies in the application, they became more skilled testers themselves and appreciated the testing team (as well as the developers) even more than they previously did. I gave them ideas and in turn I learned what quirks of the application irritated the users. I learned more about their perspective too.

Software testing resources:
Usability testing vs. user acceptance testing

Don't mistake user acceptance testing for acceptance testing

User acceptance testing that satisfies users and requirements

I think there are multiple benefits, such as the ones I highlighted, as well as a few more. You'll get to know the users; they'll get to know you and your team. The users might be more inclined to share ideas that can add to your testing. You may also better understand what the users need to accomplish and become a better advocate for the users. I believe spending time with users of the products is beneficial.

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