Beta Testing
Beta testing, for the technologically unchallenged. (for the technologically challenged, please see product testing) While you can actually get a Job Beta testing , we are going to focus on Freelance testing for now.
Beta testing is basically, trying out new software before it’s released, but it has expanded to include PC and gaming: devices, platforms and peripherals. Or just really cool gadgets.
There are usually 3 phases to testing.
The Alpha phase: Very secretive, product is not complete, very buggy
Closed Beta: Alpha bugs were fixed and product is completed, yet buggy.
Open or Public Beta: Closed Beta bugs addressed, ok to launch, still buggy
Omega / Official Release: All bugs (in theory) are fixed. Some things stay in Open Beta for years…
GET SMART: What the heck is Beta? ‘Beta’ is called beta because the stages of software development are named after the letters of the Greek alphabet: Alpha (A), Beta (B), Gamma (Γ ), Delta (Δ), etc. Omega, being the last letter of the Greek alphabet.
What does buggy mean and what does testing involve? Lots of things. Testers check compatibility with drivers, software, O/S or test when “this” is done “this” happens correctly (ex. When one inputs Hello and the output is Good Bye, that would be something a tester looks for) or test for freezes, or if something just plain out doesn’t work or is not user friendly. Also, testers give feedback that may feature ideas, surveys about important aspects of the product, or an open user forum discussion
Don’t think you can BETA test!? Guess what? If you have ever used a Windows product you are a BETA TESTER… ;)
Beta testing, bug finding, 2nd phase software test…whatever you may call it, beta testing is uber geek cool. As a beta tester, you can get paid, but most of the perks are in the beta test itself. You are among a select few that get to play with new toys, try new games or use new geeky gadgets and you can bask in the glory that these companies value YOUR opinion.
So you want to be a beta tester? Here are few things to know. Most software better testers already:
Follow AND understand current technological advances in the industry
Participate in related forums
Have a technical background
Can upgrade, install and diagnosis software with ease
Can provide technical feedback
Gaming and Gadget Beta testing is a little different. Most gaming testers already:
Know the new games are in developmentHave a interest in gaming
Can use “everyday” gadgets with ease: (Bluetooth, Wireless, and Smart devices)
Do not need a technically background, many gaming Beta testers are still in High School.
Can form proper sentences
So, you think you are ready? Here is a list of well-known companies that you can sign up for to become a Beta tester. While you might receive FREE final release software or the gadget, some beta tests offer $ compensation also. (incentive = offers $ compensation on many tests)
Software and Gadgets
Centercode (incentive)
Gaming
XNA (360)
BetaWatcher (MMORPG list of sites entering beta)
Canadian Beta TestsLeaked Video Games (google from there)
Microsoft Connect (Xbox 360)
GameDev Forum (tests sometimes)
Want to be a good tester? Here are some tips:
TEST do not REVIEW
Use details and be very specific, exactly what were you doing when you noticed X.
Use: X works when, X doesn’t work when, X does this when I X, X doesn’t do X, when installed with X, X does X…etc.
Details, Details, DETAILS.
Give feedback in a timely manner
strong>GOOD LUCK!
