Expressing Requirements as Acceptance Tests

Expressing requirements as acceptance tests is a practice that helps ensure that the development team and stakeholders have a shared understanding of the expected outcomes. This practice is closely aligned with test-driven development practices.

Exam Question

Which describes the practice of expressing requirements as acceptance tests?
(choose the best answer)
A. Object Driven Requirements Definition.
B. Acceptance Test Driven Development.
C. Quality Oriented Requirements Definition.
D. Regression Testing.

Correct Answer

B. Acceptance Test Driven Development.

Explanation

Correct Answer

B. Acceptance Test Driven Development:
Acceptance Test Driven Development (ATDD) is a practice where requirements are expressed as acceptance tests before development begins. These tests serve as a guide for the Developers and ensure that the final product meets the specified requirements. The practice of ATDD involves writing tests that describe the expected behavior of the software in a way that is understandable to both Developers and stakeholders. These acceptance tests are then used to validate that the software functions correctly as per the requirements.

Why the Other Options Are Less Appropriate

A. Object Driven Requirements Definition:
This term is not commonly used in the context of Agile or Scrum practices and does not describe the practice of expressing requirements as acceptance tests.

C. Quality Oriented Requirements Definition:
While quality is a critical aspect of any requirements definition process, this term does not specifically refer to the practice of expressing requirements as acceptance tests.

D. Regression Testing:
Regression testing is the process of testing existing software functionality to ensure that new changes or additions have not introduced any defects. It is not directly related to the practice of expressing requirements as acceptance tests.

Relevance to the PSD Exam

Understanding Acceptance Test Driven Development (ATDD) is important for the PSD exam. It emphasizes the importance of aligning development with clearly defined acceptance criteria, which helps ensure that the final product meets stakeholder expectations.

Key Takeaways

• Acceptance Test Driven Development (ATDD) involves expressing requirements as acceptance tests, which guide development and ensure the product meets the specified requirements.
• ATDD helps bridge the gap between Developers and stakeholders by providing a clear, shared understanding of the expected outcomes.
• Understanding ATDD is crucial for effective collaboration and delivering high-quality software that meets stakeholder needs.

Conclusion

Acceptance Test Driven Development (ATDD) is a key practice in Agile and Scrum development, where requirements are expressed as acceptance tests to ensure that the final product meets the defined criteria. This practice fosters collaboration and ensures that both Developers and stakeholders are aligned on the expected outcomes. For more information on preparing for the PSD exam, visit our Professional Scrum Developer PSD™ Exam Prep.