Data processing Data processing Overview | Interactive on-line | Batch
Before programs can be made live, each program should be thoroughly tested.
Testing should involve; tests of individual programs with sample data (normal, incorrect, and extreme), and tests that the program interacts correctly with the system.
Interactive systems require extensive testing of maintenance programs, since data is updated on-line and changes take effect immediately. If program 'bugs' exist, it can be a very difficult task to fix the data, particularly if complex file relationships exist. Programs for reports and inquiry, since they do not change the data, will not need such extensive testing.
Extensive testing of the validation/update programs are required, though if 'bugs' do occur audit trails are generally more easily followed than in the case of an on-line interactive system.
[8/9/97 Rev: 5/9/97] © 1997 V/2-Com (Verhaart), P O Box 8415, Havelock North, New Zealand.