User Acceptance Testing (UAT)
User Acceptance Testing (UAT) serves as a critical last step in the software testing process, where actual software users validate that the system fulfills their business requirements. Unlike previous testing phases performed by developers or QA, UAT is performed by business users and stakeholders, ensuring that the application is practical and ready for deployment.
Role of Business Analysts in UAT
Business Analysts (BAs) have a significant involvement in UAT, including:
- Creating UAT Test Plans and Scenarios: BAs guide the development of scenarios that reflect real-world usage.
- Identifying UAT Testers: They help select suitable business users to test the system.
- Aligning with Acceptance Criteria: BAs ensure that the testing process aligns with user stories' acceptance criteria.
- Logging Defects: Any identified issues during UAT are documented for resolution.
- Feedback Incorporation: Crucial feedback is gathered and channeled back into the backlog or a bug tracker like JIRA.
UAT is fundamentally about confirming that a software product delivers real value and meets the expectations of its end users before it goes live.