Activity 8.3 - Assignment: End of Module Questions

Part 1: Answer the Module Review Questions listed below.

1. Discuss why testing is so essential to the development of a new system, and explain how a test case relates to a test plan.
The cost associated with finding and fixing a major software bug after a system has been implemented is very high. Therefore, thorough testing of the system is imperative. It is not enough to have written a program; it also needs to be tested completely to verify it performs as specified. A test is a particular aspect of the system that needs to be evaluated. The test plan outlines all of the tests that need to be performed on the system. Test cases are the sample data that will be run through or entered into the system. A test will state its objective, list the test cases that will check the desired feature or function, and define the expected results. Actual test results will also be recorded on the test.

2. Compare and contrast unit testing, integration testing, system testing and acceptance testing.
Integration testing evaluates whether a set of modules or programs work together successfully. The span of an integration test is broader than unit testing, but not as broad as system testing.
System testing evaluates the entire system, not only to verify that it runs without error or breakdown, but also that it fulfills the business requirements of the system.
Acceptance testing is performed with the system users to confirm that the system is complete, that it meets the needs of the business area, and that it is acceptable to the users.

3. Explain the difference between user documentation and system documentation. What are the reasons underlying the popularity of online documentation? Are there any limitations to online documentation? Explain.
Online documentation is popular for several reasons. First, it is