How to Beta Test Your Software

Software testing is a vital component of successful software implementation. When launching any system, particularly if its nature is business-critical, it should be properly tested for performance and quality, as well as accuracy. The main goal of testing is to ensure the system performs as it should without error. If you are in the process of adopting new software, make sure you give it a test run!

Acceptance testing is a logical first step, as it is a form of testing meant to gauge a system’s compliance with business requirements, as well as determine if it is ready for launch. Acceptance testing branches out into two main parts:

To Beta test new software, first, identify a pool of employees who will serve as your beta testers and give them early access to the system with the following goals in mind.

The main reason you would conduct beta testing is to identify errors or bugs in the system. Any problems that didn’t get caught during alpha testing can now be identified and addressed. By allowing users access to a beta version of the system, it becomes more likely that you catch issues that slipped through the cracks in development. Also, you get to see if the system performs consistently when dealing with higher user volume.

Quality assurance is another important reason to conduct beta testing. Beta testing allows developers to assess the system experience from an end-user point of view. Some features that seemed like a good idea in development may contribute to unnecessary complexity and a convoluted user experience.

Feature tweaks and additions can also be made during beta testing. Regardless of the market research conducted prior to development, it takes real-world application to get a full understanding of what a system may require in terms of features and functionality. Beta testing provides that real-world element, allowing your organization to trial different features, and even receive user feedback. Developers can then leverage that feedback by either adding, altering or removing some features entirely.

The following steps will walk you through how to perform a basic beta test for your system, app, or software.

Overall, you just want to make sure that your system is going to perform how you, your users (and your boss) expect it to. Technology is constantly evolving, and software is no different. Even if your system has been in use for a while, you can still beta test new versions or features. As the needs of your users evolve, so to must the functionality of your systems. Make sure you keep your ear to the ground and stay aware of any changes to the user environment that may necessitate a new system version.

As always,

Thanks for reading!

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