Legacy Software Testing - A Current Methodology

摘要

In the simulation world, software upgrade is more common than new development. Thus it is extremely important to ensure proper operation of the simulation model as it is enhanced. The big question is how does one keep the current model operating correctly while adding new capabilities. The Model Development Team at the Air Combat Environment Test and Evaluation Facility, Patuxent River Naval Air Station, Maryland, has developed an approach that is useful in making sure that the current simulation model keeps its current capabilities operating correctly as well as testing any new capability that is added. The purpose of this paper is to present the approach used by the Model Development Team to answer the question put forth. This paper discusses the software development and maintenance criteria used as the overarching guide for testing. The testing process used and how this process ensures that the model meets the criteria is then given. Specific test examples and expected output are provided as a model testing approach. Finally, the future of development testing for the Model Development Team is presented.