Alpha testing is simulated or actual operational testing by potential users/customers or an independent test team at the developers’ site. Alpha testing is often employed for off-the-shelf software as a form of internal acceptance testing, before the software goes to beta testing.
Alpha testing is a type of User Acceptance Testing or internal acceptance testing conducted by the testing team at the developer’s site to ensure that application’s business requirement are met before releasing it to client or end user. It is carried out in the later phase of software development using both black box and white box testing techniques.
Features of Alpha Testing
- It is performed by testing professionals unlike beta testing which is performed by potential users.
- It is performed at the developer’s site.
- It involves both black box as well as white box testing techniques.
- It is carried out in a closely monitored testing environment.
- It has longer testing cycle as compared to beta testing.