What is one key advantage of conducting parallel testing?

One key advantage of conducting parallel testing is that it improves user adoption of the new system. In this type of testing, both the new system and the legacy system operate simultaneously for a set period. This approach allows users to become familiar with the new system while still having access to the familiar legacy system. It provides them with a safety net; if they encounter issues or are unsure about the new system's functionality, they can rely on the legacy system until they are comfortable with the changes.

This gradual transition fosters confidence among users as they can compare outputs from both systems in real-time. Such familiarity not only lessens resistance to change but also significantly increases their likelihood of adopting the new system fully. By learning in a safe environment and progressively shifting their reliance to the new system, users gain valuable experience that enhances their overall satisfaction and effectiveness.

In contrast to this, factors such as minimal user involvement and significantly reduced operational costs are generally not true for parallel testing, as the process often requires active participation from users and may involve additional costs associated with running two systems concurrently. Immediate data retrieval from the legacy system is also not guaranteed, as the focus of parallel testing is to ensure accurate comparison and functionality of both systems rather than to ensure speed of retrieval.