When is acceptance testing performed?

Acceptance testing is performed to validate if a system meets the business requirements and is ready for deployment. This type of testing typically occurs after the development process but before the software is installed and made available for use by end users. It ensures that the developed system meets the specified criteria and is functioning as intended.

Conducting acceptance testing before deployment prevents the situation where end users encounter significant defects, as it assesses the system from the user’s perspective. This is crucial for identifying any issues early on, allowing for fixes or enhancements prior to the system going live. By ensuring that all requirements are met and functionality is confirmed during this stage, organizations can minimize risks associated with post-deployment failures or user dissatisfaction.

The other options presented do not align with the purpose and timing of acceptance testing. For instance, testing after deployment or during system maintenance would not serve the primary goal of validating the system before it is made operational. The focus during the initial development phase is on unit or system testing, rather than acceptance criteria.