Definition of an Alpha Test.

[scramb13r 0]

After reading some threads in this forum where people didn't quite grasp the concept of an Alpha Test, I thought I might provide a brief explaination of what an Alpha Test is.

Definition - A situation in which a new product, especially new software, is tested for the first time to check that it is working correctly:

Purpose - The main purpose of alpha testing is to refine the software product by finding and fixing "bugs" (errors) in the program. This is done by simulating a real user environment and by carrying out tasks and operations that the actual users might perform.

We're not customers as much as we are testers. Our "job" is to report any bugs we find and make constructive suggestions. This enables the developers to create a more stable, well rounded Mod.

Primary attribute of an Alpha Tester : Patience

[b00ce 5]

It doesn't feel like an Alpha test. This mod is great and can only get better.

[puppetmasterjjk 3]

If we treated the mod right now strictly by the 'alpha test' definition you posted and didn't make suggestions to fix the gameplay issues that we find, then there really wouldn't be much to discuss. As far as errors go, there aren't many left to mention. Currently, changes to the gameplay are being added in daily, so players are expressing their opinions on the changes that they're testing as well as pointing out any bugs that are found.

I'm sure the developers appreciate any input they receive from the community.

[oktyabr 53]

We (I used to do a lot of software testing) used to define "alpha" as the first version complete and stable enough to even be tested. Just beyond proof of concept. Since there were a lot of unknowns it is also the stage where major components could still be changed or removed all together. "Beta" is usually after the software is gelled into pretty much it's final configuration and is used primarily for smashing bugs and testing stress limits before it's "released" to the public.

Neither should be considered "stable", "complete", or no longer subject to changes.

[griffinz 2817]

In short: There will be no/few cosmetic or unnecessary changes to DayZ until Beta

[scramb13r 0]

Perhaps I should clarify, my post was in response to a lot of aggressive and down right rude threads that I have seen on this forum. A lot of people seem to forget that, despite how amazing the mod is, it is in the testing phase or simply may not know what an alpha or beta test is.

@ Baby Stomper - I'm not saying people shouldn't report bugs or make suggestions, perhaps you should read my post again, I clearly state "Our "job" is to report any bugs we find and make constructive suggestions".

As far as errors go, there will continue to be errors as new content (code) is added to the program, that is the nature of programming. Hence the reason you Alpha and Beta test.

[griffinz 2817]

Programming: 20% coding, 80% debugging

[bondematt 0]

Then they are a lot better at programming than me!

5% coding, 95% cursing at a screen trying to get every variable in some kind of debug on an engine that was never really made for you to debug!

Of course I also have no formal education in programming beyond Java I.

[griffinz 2817]

You should try teaching yourself to use Xcode and objective C! Im currently 1% coding, 99% swearing

[predators_are_coming@hotmail.com 99]

This is the first General Thread. Im gonna bump this up because everyone needs to learn what Alpha test means.

[Elias (DayZ) 57]

There is a sticky with Legacy saying a few words about this alpha too:

http://dayzmod.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=17087