Key Points

• Statistical assurance
• Testing processes
• Experience in statistical assurance

Presentation Abstract

This paper presents statistical assurance techniques for testing. Even though it has been developed to Y2K testing, it can be applied potentially any software testing project. The technique has been developed by the Department of Defense (DoD) and used in a variety of projects within DoD.

The ABT test process and the underlying statistical models provide DoD managers with objective test data and a specific quantitative level of confidence in the test results. Furthermore, the ABT process can be embedded within the existing DoD Y2K testing processes to minimize changes to the existing testing practices. The statistical models explicitly model Y2K faults, address regression testing of Y2K modifications, and provide specific and quantitative output. Also, the ABT process can be used for many future test programs, including both commercial and government applications.

About the Speaker

Ray Paul is current the Directorate at DoD OASD Y2K Office. He is in charge of DoDĖs recent Y2K testing effort. He recently received his Ph.D. in Computer Science and Engineering.

W. T. Tsai is currently Professor of Computer Science and Engineering at Arizona State University. He received his Ph.D. and M.S. in Computer Science from University of California at Berkeley. He has been involved in software engineering research.