How to start beta testing?

Question

I have a project that I would like to start beta testing in the near future, this is a PHP / MySQL website for programmers. I have beta testing sites before it was always inside the house, and I never did beta versions that can / should be noticed by someone other than those related to the project.

How can I start to put the beta version, and what problems, besides those that are supposed to expose the beta version, should I be ready?

Answer 1

First, accept the fact that problems with your application (code, usability, etc.) will be detected.

Then make sure that you have a clear way to communicate with you (email, email, uservoice, etc.). The easier you do it, the better. For example, each SO page has a uservoice link.

One philosophy in which I firmly believe: if it confuses your users, it will break. Be prepared to change your application (no matter how “beautiful” the design can be) if your users are confused or dislike. This does not mean that you must implement your decisions, you just need to consider the changes in order to improve the user experience.

Answer 2

Discard the Jeff post on it, I think he has recent experience; -)

Answer 3

Hmm, problems related to people? Do you mean usability problems?

In addition, if you are doing a beta version, it means that you have already done everything you know (in my opinion). One of the goals of beta testing is to show you what you did not know, in addition to unexpected code problems, etc.

Answer 4

Beta testing is part of acceptance testing. This type of testing will provide the customer with the functionality and quality of the product. Beta testing is performed on the client side in an uncontrolled environment. In beta testing, test cases with the participation of the client are recorded, and he can enter everything that he wants to enter. Here, the developer does not control the testing approach.