Developing the Test Lab

Applies To: Windows Server 2003, Windows Server 2003 R2, Windows Server 2003 with SP1, Windows Server 2003 with SP2

After you finish the test lab planning process and receive management approval, you can build the lab. To ensure smooth operation of the lab, assign a test lab manager and develop test lab guidelines and procedures.

Figure 2.9 illustrates the steps you take to develop the test lab.

Figure 2.9   Developing the Test Lab

If you plan to rebuild the test lab periodically as your testing focus changes, consider using tools or products such as SMS to manage test lab changes. Also consider using Remote Installation Services (RIS), Sysprep, or unattended installations to rapidly make changes to the client computer configurations in the test lab. Active Directory Service Interfaces (ADSI) and Windows Script Host can help you quickly create, delete, or change users, groups, and organizational units in your test lab environment.

For more information about using RIS to automate client computer installations, see "Designing RIS Installations" in Automating and Customizing Installations of this kit. For more information about using Sysprep to automate client computer installations, see "Designing Image-based Installations with Sysprep" in Automating and Customizing Installations of this kit. For more information about using unattended installations to automate client computer installations, see "Designing Unattended Installations" in Automating and Customizing Installations of this kit.