Identifying Required Resources

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

Identify the resources required for the test lab:

Hardware   List the hardware that you need to conduct tests. For example, identify the standard configurations you plan to support for client computers. Include components such as video cards, modems, and external drives.

Software   List the software that you need to test the compatibility of your applications with Windows Server 2003. For example, include Microsoft® Systems Management Server (SMS) or other server-based products that you need for testing. For more information about software required for application compatibility testing, see "Planning and Testing for Application Deployment" in this book.

Databases   Include databases that you need to prepare for testing applications. Also include a description of the resources that you need to populate the databases, such as personnel and business data.

Personnel   Identify the number of testers you need and the skill level required. Include consultants and other support personnel, as necessary.

Training   Specify the Windows XP Professional or Windows Server 2003 training that your testers need to complete prior to testing their assigned applications or technologies.

Tools   Include all tools or scripts that you need to automate testing and to track test results. For example, if you do not have a second test lab that you can use for testing wide area network (WAN) links, include link simulators. For more information about developing a test result tracking system, see "Developing an Incident-Tracking System" later in this chapter.