Definition

Testing and evaluation of products and services, completed with the full range of typical users, operators, crews, or units is as realistic an operational environment as possible.

Comment

User testing will provide data for estimating:

• The utility, operational effectiveness, and operational suitability (including compatibility, interoperability, reliability, availability, maintainability, supportability, operational man machine interface, and training requirements) of new systems.

• The service or product's desirability, considering services that are currently available, and the operational benefits and burdens associated with the new service

• The need for modification to the service.

• The adequacy of environment, organisation, operating techniques, tactics, and training for deployment and employment of the service; and, when appropriate, its performance in a defined environment.

[Source: Federation of American Scientists]