Who’s Responsible for Testing? Don’t Leave It Vague

Let me share a story with you guys today.

A few years ago, I worked with a company that was about to launch a new software product.

The development phase went smoothly, and everything seemed on track. But when it came time for acceptance testing, things fell apart.

Why?

The contract wasn’t clear on some important details. And that lack of clarity led to confusion, delays, and a lot of frustration.

This is why it’s so important to ensure that your software contract clearly outlines the acceptance testing process.

The Problem with Vague Testing Clauses

In this case, the contract didn’t clearly spell out:

- Who was in charge of testing: Was it the client’s job? The developer’s? Or a third party?

- The timeline for testing: How long should it take? What were the deadlines?

- How the results would be shared: What format would be used? When would the results be communicated? How would issues be reported?

The client thought the developer would handle everything, while the developer expected the client’s IT team to take over.

The result? Confusion, delays, and frustration on both sides.

What should have been straightforward turned into a mess, all because there wasn’t a clear plan in place.

Common Missteps and Why They Don’t Work

Many businesses approach acceptance testing with assumptions that don’t always pan out.

Here’s what people usually do wrong:

1) Assuming the Developer Will Handle Testing

Some clients think that since the developer built the software, they’ll handle the testing too.

But developers usually focus on building the software to the specs they’re given.

While they might do some initial tests, the full acceptance testing, where the software is checked against what was promised, is usually up to the client.

If this isn’t clear in the contract, both sides might wait for the other to act, leading to delays and missed issues.

2) Leaving the Testing Timeline Open-Ended

Some businesses leave the timeline for testing open, thinking they’ll “figure it out as they go.”

Without a set timeline, testing can drag on forever, pushing back the project’s completion.

This is especially a problem if you have a launch date or other parts of the business waiting on the software.

A vague timeline leads to uncertainty and can cause rushed testing or, worse, missed problems.

3) Not Being Clear on How Results Will Be Shared

It’s common to assume that standard methods like email or verbal updates will be enough for communicating testing results.

But when it comes to testing, clear documentation is key.

Vague communication can lead to misunderstandings, missed issues, and a lack of follow-up.

For example, if bugs are reported via email without a clear system, important details might get lost, leading to more delays and frustration.

4) Using Standard Contracts Without Customization

Some businesses use generic contracts that include a basic acceptance testing clause without customizing it for their specific project.

But every software project is different, and a one-size-fits-all clause rarely works.

A standard clause might not cover your project’s unique needs, like specific testing environments or criteria.

This can leave gaps in the process, where important aspects of testing are overlooked or left unclear.

Why Clear Testing Plans Matter

Let me help you understand this better with a hypothetical situation. Imagine, you receive a new software application from your developer.

The contract says your internal IT team will handle acceptance testing within 15 days, with any bugs reported through a shared project management tool.

The process is simple, clear, and efficient. Problems are quickly identified and communicated, and the developer fixes them before the final sign-off.

The result? A smooth, on-time launch with no last-minute surprises.

Now, compare that to a scenario where none of these details are clear. The software is delivered, but no one knows who’s responsible for testing.

Days turn into weeks as both sides wait for the other to start. When testing finally begins, it’s chaotic—bugs are reported inconsistently, and some are missed entirely.

The launch is delayed, and everyone’s frustrated. That’s the difference a clear, well-defined acceptance testing plan can make.

The Steps I Recommend Instead

To avoid the headaches of vague testing plans, make sure your software contract is clear and thorough.

Here’s what I suggest:

1) Clearly Define Who’s Responsible

Specify who’s in charge of acceptance testing. Is it the client’s IT team? The developer? A third-party tester?

By clearly defining roles, you avoid confusion and ensure everyone knows what they need to do.

2) Set a Specific Timeline

Make sure to establish a clear timeline for testing.

How long will it take? When does it start? What are the deadlines for reporting issues and completing fixes?

A set timeline keeps the project on track and stops testing from dragging on.

3) Agree on How Results Will Be Shared

Decide in advance how testing results will be communicated.

Will bugs be reported through a shared tool? Will there be regular check-ins?

Agreeing on a clear process for sharing results ensures that issues are documented, tracked, and resolved quickly.

4) Customize the Testing Clause for Your Project

Don’t rely on a generic clause. Customize it to your project’s specific needs.

This might include defining the testing environment, specifying success criteria, or highlighting the tools that will be used.

A customized clause makes sure all aspects of testing are covered and that there are no gaps.

Final Thoughts

If you want nothing but success for your software project, then make sure you have clear acceptance testing. It's important.

Don’t assume these details will just work themselves out—define them upfront.

Because in software development, a clear plan is not just helpful, but it's also the difference between success and stress.

If you need my help with a Contract that covers these details, reply with "HELP"

And I will send you the details of how we can work together.