UAT Test Plan Template

4.1 Test Milestones

This section outlines the key milestones in the testing process. 

4.2 Test Run Planning

In this section, the planning of test runs is addressed. A test run schedule will be created to define the sequence and timing of executing the test cases. The schedule will consider any dependencies between test cases and ensure adequate time for thorough testing. It includes:

• Test Run Code: The unique identifier or name of each test run.
• Test Run Name: The definition of a test run, which may encompass a specific set of test cases, scenarios, or a combination.
• Test Run Objectives: The objectives or goals to be achieved through the execution of each test run.
• Test Run Schedule: The schedule for executing test runs, including start and end dates, as well as any specific timeframes or deadlines.
• Assigned Test Cases: The assignment and specific execution order for each test run.
• Assigned Testers: The assignment of specific test runs to individuals or teams responsible for their execution.
• Test Run Dependencies: Any dependencies or prerequisites for executing specific test runs, such as completion of certain activities or availability of specific resources.

5.1 Test Execution Process

The UAT test execution process will follow the defined test runs and test cases. It will consist of the following steps:

1. Test Preparation: Review the test runs, test cases, and associated test data to ensure readiness for execution.
   
   
2. Test Environment Setup: Set up the test environment according to the specified configurations and data requirements.
   
   
3. Test Case Execution: Execute each test case as per the defined instructions, using the provided test data.
   
   
4. Test Result Tracking: Document any observed defects or deviations from the expected results, including clear and concise steps to reproduce the issue.
   
   
5. Issue Reporting: Log defects into the designated defect tracking system, assign severity and priority levels, and track their status.
   
   
6. Test Progress Reporting: Regularly communicate the status and progress of test execution to stakeholders and project management.
   
   
7. Retesting: Upon resolution of reported defects, retest the affected test cases to verify the fixes.

5.2 Test Environment Setup

The test environment will be set up to replicate the production environment and ensure a realistic testing experience. The setup process will include:

• Installation and configuration of necessary software and hardware components.
• Configuration of network settings, if applicable.
• Loading of test data and ensuring data integrity.

5.3 Test Case Execution

The execution of test cases will be performed systematically, adhering to the following guidelines:

• Test cases will be executed by trained and designated testers.
• Each step of the test case will be followed precisely, ensuring accurate execution.
• Testers will record the actual results observed during test execution.
• Any deviations from the expected results will be documented as defects.
• Defects will be reported promptly, providing detailed information for easy reproduction and analysis.

5.4 Test Result Tracking and Issue Reporting

Test results tracking and issue reporting are essential for effective issue management and resolution. The process will involve:

• Logging defects in the designated defect tracking system, including relevant details such as steps to reproduce, observed behavior, and expected behavior.
• Assigning appropriate impact and priority levels to each reported issue.
• Regularly updating the status of issues as they progress through the resolution process.
• Collaborating with development teams to clarify issues and provide additional information, if needed.

5.5 Test Status Reporting

Regular test status reporting will ensure stakeholders and project management stay informed about the progress and results of the UAT phase. The reporting process will include:

• Providing periodic updates on test execution progress, including the number of test cases executed, passed, and failed.
• Highlighting any critical issues affecting the testing progress or overall system quality.
• Summarizing the overall test status and providing insights into the system's readiness for production use.
• Communicating key findings, observations, and recommendations resulting from the test execution.

6.1 Exit Criteria

The UAT phase will be considered complete and ready for closure when the following criteria are met:

• All identified test scenarios and test cases have been executed.
• All critical defects have been addressed and resolved.
• The system demonstrates consistent and satisfactory performance during UAT.
• The system meets the specified business requirements and user expectations.
• The UAT team and stakeholders have provided their sign-off and approval for the UAT phase.

6.2 Suspension and Resumption Criteria

In case it becomes necessary to suspend or temporarily halt the UAT phase, the following criteria will guide the decision:

• Availability of critical resources, such as key stakeholders or subject matter experts, becomes limited or unavailable.
• Major system defects or issues severely impact the UAT progress and feasibility.
• Legal, compliance, or security concerns arise that require immediate attention.
• Changes in project priorities or business needs require a reassessment of the UAT scope and approach.

Resumption of the UAT phase will be considered when the aforementioned criteria are no longer applicable, and the necessary conditions for successful testing are reestablished.

6.3 Acceptance Criteria

The acceptance criteria for the UAT phase will be based on the following factors:

1. The system successfully passes all identified test runs and test cases.
2. The system meets the predefined acceptance criteria defined in the requirements documentation.
3. The system demonstrates satisfactory performance, usability, and functionality.
4. The stakeholders and business users provide their acceptance and sign-off.

6.4 Approval Criteria

The approval criteria for UAT sign-off and acceptance will include the following:

1. All critical defects have been addressed and resolved to the satisfaction of the stakeholders.
2. The system meets the specified business requirements and user expectations.
3. The UAT test team has completed all necessary test documentation, including test cases, test data, and defect reports.
4. The stakeholders and business users have provided their formal approval and sign-off on the UAT phase.

7.1 Identified Risks

This section identifies the potential risks that may impact the UAT process and the successful execution of tests. Each identified risk should include:

• Risk Description: A clear and concise description of the risk.
• Probability: The likelihood of the risk occurring (e.g., low, medium, high).
• Impact: The potential consequences if the risk materializes (e.g., low, medium, high).
• Mitigation Measures: Proposed actions or strategies to minimize the likelihood or impact of the risk.

7.2 Mitigation Strategies

In this subsection, mitigation strategies for the identified risks are outlined. For each risk, include:

• Mitigation Actions: Specific steps or measures to minimize the likelihood or impact of the risk.
• Responsible Parties: The individuals or teams responsible for implementing the mitigation actions.

7.3 Contingency Plans

This section presents contingency plans that outline the actions to be taken if identified risks materialize. For each risk, include:

• Contingency Plan: A plan of action to be executed if the risk occurs.
• Trigger Criteria: Indicators or thresholds that will prompt the activation of the contingency plan.
• Recovery Actions: Steps to be taken to recover from the impact of the risk and resume testing.

8.1 UAT Sign-Off

The UAT sign-off involves obtaining formal approval from the UAT team, indicating their acceptance of the tested system. This subsection covers the following aspects:

• Criteria for UAT Sign-Off: The conditions that must be met to consider the UAT phase complete and ready for sign-off.
  
  
• UAT Completion Checklist: A checklist to ensure all necessary UAT activities and deliverables have been completed.
  
  
• UAT Sign-Off Process: The steps involved in obtaining sign-off from the UAT team.
  
  
• UAT Sign-Off Document: A template or format to capture the UAT sign-off and acceptance.

8.2 Stakeholder Sign-Off

Stakeholder sign-off is crucial to validate their acceptance of the tested system and their readiness for production deployment. This subsection addresses the following aspects:

• Stakeholder Approval Criteria: The criteria that stakeholders will use to evaluate the UAT results and provide sign-off.
  
  
• Stakeholder Sign-Off Process: The steps involved in obtaining sign-off from the stakeholders.
  
  
• Stakeholder Sign-Off Document: A template or format to capture the stakeholder sign-off and acceptance.

8.3 Test Closure Activities

This subsection outlines the activities to be performed for the closure of the UAT phase. It includes:

• Test Closure Criteria: The conditions that must be satisfied to consider the UAT phase officially closed.
  
  
• Test Closure Checklist: A checklist to ensure all necessary test closure activities and deliverables have been completed.
  
  
• Test Closure Report: A summary report documenting the overall UAT results, lessons learned, and recommendations for future improvements.
  
  
• Archiving and Retention: The process of archiving and retaining UAT artifacts and documentation for future reference and audit purposes.

That covers the template for the eighth chapter, "Test Sign-Off," in a UAT test plan. Customize and expand upon this template to fit your project's specific UAT sign-off process, stakeholder sign-off requirements, and test closure activities.

9.1 Test Plan Revision History

This section provides a chronological record of the revisions made to the UAT test plan. 

9.2 Glossary of Terms

The glossary of terms provides a list of definitions for key terms and acronyms used throughout the UAT test plan. 

9.3 Supporting Documents

This section lists the supporting documents and references that are relevant to the UAT test plan. It may include:

• Business Requirements: The document outlining the business requirements for the system being tested.
  
  
• Functional / Non-Functional Requirements: The document specifying the functional and non-functional requirements of the system.
  
  
• Test Cases: The document containing the step-by-step instructions for executing individual test cases.
  
  
• Test Data: The document specifying the sample data or datasets required for test execution.
  
  
• Test Environment Setup: The document detailing the configuration of the UAT test environment.
  
  
• Requirement / Risk Coverage Reports: Any coverage reports compiled throughout the UAT phase.
  
  
• Issue Reports: Any issue reports generated during the UAT phase.