Abstract: After testing procedures have been created and the type of test data has been determined, link or string testing, and system testing must be executed to ensure the job stream is correct and to locate errors before production. Backup and restart testing must be also be conducted to ensure that the restart points within the system are accurately defined. Finally, to demonstrate the benefits and functionality of the system, management and user approval should be received.

Abstract: The task of managing and maintaining today’s IT infrastructure has become vastly more complicated and complex as IT has become more critical to business success. The response from a technology perspective has been the introduction of services oriented architectures that enable IT to be responsive to the business needs but also live within their economic constraints. But the very technologies fueling this success create significant problems. Even small changes can cause major disruptions in today’s highly interactive and interdependent applications. Unfortunately, the pace of change means traditional testing architectures with lengthy development and testing will not work. But the testing must be done. Worksoft’s Certify is discussed as the test management repository and framework solution to this testing problem for XML-based applications.

Abstract: Software testing vendors are forming alliances and partnerships with the vendors who actually service and support the delivery of Internet content. Thus do the realities of testing Internet applications sink in. Two instances: Mercury Interactive formed a strategic alliance with Akamai Technologies, and Segue signed NaviSite as its first Hosted Services Partner.

Abstract: Information security managers, quality assurance staff, and developers are faced with the enormous responsibility of keeping Web applications secure from the ever-growing menace of hackers and internal threats alike. So how can they protect sensitive data without exhausting internal resources, overspending the budget, or being forced to use costly manual penetration testing using external consulting firms?

Abstract: In terms of strategic partnerships, the acquirer is responsible for judging how well customer relationship management (CRM) software will function on the equipment and at the site, and with staff, customers, and third-party applications. Acceptance testing involves three basic flavors: user acceptance, operational acceptance, and contractual acceptance. While it is not the only step involved when implementing a CRM system, testing is a fundamental way of finding information and will help you judge a system’s returns and pitfalls.

Abstract: Dark Pool Trading Systems, used by institutional traders trading in large volumes, help get more liquidity and lower transaction cost. Despite these benefits, there are a few issues, such as inadequate transparency, regulatory requirements, and uniform information access to investors. Considering these systems’ complexity, it’s important that functional testing, as well as gateway and performance testing, be done.

Abstract: Is your information security system staying on top of the 400 new threats that appear monthly? Securing your Web applications is not a one-time event, but a continuous process of testing and re-testing for new vulnerabilities, especially when vital data is in development or production. Learn how a Web application security optimization process can help you perform effective continuous assessments of your system.

Abstract: Effective IT disaster recovery (DR) and planning is essential for every business. However, IT environments have become so complex that safeguarding the business against disasters can present some major challenges. One way to improve your business disaster recovery planning is by pre-testing DR scenarios using network simulation. Find out how a simulation testing solution can help you better protect your business.

Abstract: Testing a system well is harder than building it. In the face of new risks introduced by the ever-increasing complexity of software and hardware, test tools may be your only practical way to be confident that you've got just what you paid for. From gathering the initial requirements to supporting the system after it has been deployed, test tools are available to support all phases of a project. This article looks at the ways that test tools can be used to design, code, and (of course) test a system.

Abstract: Integrating a new system with your organization places new opportunities, and new risks, at the heart of your business. We look at the thinking and negotiation that shape acceptance testing, and how it influences your assessment of the new system.

Abstract: With the increase in global IT outsourcing agreements, many companies are looking at outsourcing quality assurance (QA) and testing to ensure high-quality deliverables and gain competitive advantages. These companies need to select an outsourcing partner that has local and offshore test centers—and a strong on-site consultancy presence. Find out about these and other issues that will help you in the short and long term.

Abstract: TESTCo was accustomed to managing its issue tracking for software testing using Microsoft Excel or one of its customers’ homegrown solutions. But as operations expanded, the company realized it needed a better system to manage this process—one that could monitor issues and ensure they were resolved and documented. Using ProjectLockers Issue Manager, TESTCo has benefited by saving on maintenance hours and costs.

Abstract: Development and problem solving happens too often at the testing stage, once product prototypes have been built. This can be costly, both in terms of the time and the resources expended. Computer-aided design (CAD) and exercises (CAE) can address your concerns about product safety and performance, as well as augment your return on investment (ROI). Shift your product development paradigm with digital engineering tools.

Abstract: Analysis of the tasks and time in information technology (IT) projects invariably reveals the presence of a familiar recurring burden: testing—often still performed manually and inefficiently, yet accounting for a substantial proportion of the budget. Can some simple and effective focused measures have a dramatic and positive impact on the success of key projects? That depends on your approach.

Abstract: Commerce One has partnered with Sagent Technology to add analytic tools to its enterprise e-purchasing application. Also, Ariba has partnered with Informatica to add analytic tools to its enterprise e-purchasing application.

Abstract: Tools under the business intelligence (BI) umbrella combine to convert data into information, and information into decisions for action. Dashboards and scorecards are two such tools. Though often confused, they have functional difference, especially in modern BI suites.

Abstract: This tutorial, part 2 of a two part series on Knowledge Based Selection, demonstrates the selection processes and capabilities of Knowledge Based Selection Methods and Tools. These tools, integrated with business decision making procedures, can arguably reduce selection risk and improve chances for success in IT projects. Given the appalling rate of IT project failures, selection can potentially help reduce risk in some 30% of cases, with an associated estimated cost of about $30B annually to industry according to some sources. In this tutorial, we illustrate a number of the procedures for rapid decision processing through the real-life selection of a PDA device. The process gave confidence to the argument to wait for the solution, while weighing risk against return.

Abstract: In going through a business decision process for complex technology selections, more and more use is being made of technologically driven processes using Decision support tools and captured knowledge. The use of these systems and the capability to drive a solution from them assumes an ability to accurately express business requirements and business value within these tools. In this article, we explore the marriage of knowledge management and decision support in forming knowledge based selection systems and procedures that can assist in reducing the current appalling record of IT project failures. This is illustrated by the process to select a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA).