Glossary · Automation software engineering and architecture
System test
Also known as: System testing
German: Systemtest
In software and systems engineering, a system test is a test of the complete, integrated system against its specified requirements, performed in an environment as close as possible to the intended operating environment.
- Software engineering
In one sentence
A system test checks the complete, integrated system against its requirements in an environment close to real operation.
Example
The system test of the filling line checks every specified function, from order download to final labeling, on the assembled line at the machine builder's site.
How it applies
- Engineering: System tests follow unit and integration tests and are derived from system requirements, so each requirement is covered by at least one test case.
- Verification: System testing is Verification against the specification. Whether the system fits its intended use is a separate Validation question, often answered with the customer.
- Documentation: System test cases can reuse the operating procedures from the manual, which tests the manual at the same time. Deviations found between manual and system are documentation defects to fix before release.
System test vs. acceptance test
The supplier runs system tests against its specification. An Acceptance test, such as a factory or site acceptance test, is run with or by the customer to decide whether the system is accepted.