What is a “test artifact”?

What is a “test artifact”?

• A. A document outlining regulatory results of the test
• B. A guideline for personnel administering tests
• C. Any document or tool produced as part of the Test and Evaluation process
• D. A summary of all tests conducted over a fiscal year

Answer: (C)

A "test artifact" refers to any document or tool produced as part of the Test and Evaluation process. This encompasses a wide range of materials, including test plans, procedures, reports, and software tools, that contribute to the thorough and structured process of testing and evaluating a system or product. These artifacts are crucial because they provide records and insights into the testing process, facilitate communication among stakeholders, and help ensure that evaluations are repeatable and transparent.

By maintaining and referencing these artifacts, evaluators can assess performance, manage risks, and verify that requirements are being met throughout the lifecycle of a project. Each artifact plays a role in bridging the gap between testing activities and the overall objectives of ensuring quality and conformance to standards in the development and deployment of systems. Thus, the definition supports best practices in Test and Evaluation by promoting comprehensive documentation and tool utilization within the process.