User Acceptance Testing (UAT) is the final phase of the software testing process, where end-users or clients validate that a product meets their requirements and functions correctly in real-world scenarios. It’s distinct from earlier testing stages like unit or integration testing, as it focuses on usability, business needs, and overall satisfaction rather than code-level issues.
Key Aspects of UAT:
• Purpose: Ensures the software aligns with user expectations, reduces post-launch defects, and confirms business value before full deployment.
• Who Performs It: Typically end-users, stakeholders, or beta testers, not just developers or QA teams.
• Process Overview:
1. Planning: Define test cases based on user stories and acceptance criteria.
2. Execution: Users test in a production-like environment, often using scripts or exploratory methods.
3. Reporting: Log defects, provide feedback, and sign off if criteria are met.
4. Iteration: Fix issues and retest until approval.
UAT helps minimize risks like costly rework and improves adoption rates. If you’re referring to a different context (e.g., User Acceptance Testing in another field), provide more details for clarification!