Testing Server-Based Applications

Before you distribute your shared application across your entire site, it is very important to thoroughly test the installation. You should test migrated programs in the same way you test completely new programs.

Do this by installing the application on several distribution points and clients and ensuring that everything installs and runs properly.

As you test, make sure that the following criteria are met:

References to server-based files perform correctly.

Test this by installing the application on each type of client in your network and testing a variety of functions to make sure that all execute correctly from the client.

Per-user and per-system requirements on the client are identified and satisfied.

Test this by creating a number of users on a single client and making sure all the functions of the shared application execute correctly.

Dependent programs are created for steps that must be executed in order.

Test this by installing the client setup program that includes dependent programs and making sure all runs smoothly.

The uninstall program removes the client-side package smoothly without referencing anything on the server.

Test this by removing the application from the server, then try to remove the application from a client. It should be removed smoothly. Otherwise, you need to determine why it was not removed and adjust the client’s installation and/or removal script.

The client-side installation script supports repeated installation.

Test this by installing the script several times on the same client. Run the application from the client each time you install it. Test a variety of functions to make sure that all of them are unaffected by the repeated installation.