How do you define the scope and objectives of ORT for a software system?

1 Understand the user requirements

The first step to define the scope and objectives of ORT is to understand the user requirements for the software system. User requirements are the functional and non-functional specifications that define what the system should do and how it should behave. User requirements should be clear, measurable, testable, and traceable to the business needs. You should review the user requirements document (URD) and identify the key features, functions, and performance criteria that the system must satisfy.

2 Define the operational procedures

The next step to define the scope and objectives of ORT is to define the operational procedures for the software system. Operational procedures are the documented instructions that describe how to use, maintain, and troubleshoot the system in the real environment. Operational procedures should be consistent, comprehensive, and compliant with the relevant standards and regulations. You should review the operational procedures document (OPD) and identify the main tasks, roles, responsibilities, and workflows that the system must support.

3 Assess the operational risks

The third step to define the scope and objectives of ORT is to assess the operational risks for the software system. Operational risks are the potential hazards that could affect the system's performance, reliability, security, or compliance in the real environment. Operational risks should be identified, analyzed, evaluated, and mitigated using a risk-based approach. You should review the risk assessment document (RAD) and identify the most critical and likely risks that the system must avoid or minimize.

4 Design the test cases

The fourth step to define the scope and objectives of ORT is to design the test cases for the software system. Test cases are the specific scenarios that simulate the real environment and verify that the system meets the user requirements and operational procedures. Test cases should be based on the risk assessment and cover the most important and frequent functions, features, and performance criteria of the system. You should review the test plan document (TPD) and identify the test objectives, test methods, test data, test tools, and test criteria for each test case.

5 Execute the test cases

The fifth step to define the scope and objectives of ORT is to execute the test cases for the software system. Test execution is the process of running the test cases in the real environment and recording the test results. Test execution should be performed by qualified and authorized testers, following the test plan and the operational procedures. You should review the test report document (TRD) and verify that the test results match the expected outcomes and meet the acceptance criteria.

6 Document the test outcomes

The sixth step to define the scope and objectives of ORT is to document the test outcomes for the software system. Test documentation is the process of collecting, organizing, and presenting the test evidence that demonstrates that the system meets the user requirements, operational procedures, and operational risks. Test documentation should be accurate, complete, and traceable to the test plan and the user requirements. You should review the test summary report (TSR) and confirm that the system is ready for operation.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?