DEFTST003
Conduct testing processes


Application

This unit describes the skills required to conduct a testing process. It includes managing the testing process, capturing data and adhering to the test plan.

This unit was developed for Defence test and evaluation workers, but is applicable to individuals who work in this field.

The skills and knowledge described in this unit must be applied within the legislative, regulatory and policy environment in which they are carried out. Organisational policies and procedures must be consulted and adhered to.

Those undertaking this unit would work independently or as part of a team, under direct and indirect supervision, use discretion and judgement, and take responsibility for the quality of their output. They would perform complex tasks in a range of contexts.

No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to unit at the time of publication.


Elements and Performance Criteria

ELEMENTS

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

Elements describe the essential outcomes

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. Where bold italicised text is used, further information is detailed in the range of conditions section.

1. Prepare for and conduct tests

1.1 Obtain and comply with test plan.

1.2 Brief stakeholders and test participants.

1.3 Check and initiate safety systems and procedures.

1.4 Commence test and evaluation activities.

1.5 Perform qualitative and quantitative tests to observe and to measure relevant critical parameters.

1.6 Collect and record test data.

2. Monitor testing processes

2.1 Monitor and amend test plans based on changing circumstances in consultation with team members, and include precise details for schedules of activities, milestones and resources.

2.2 Monitor systems throughout the process.

2.3 Identify risks and apply the risk management process.

2.4 Apply management tools throughout the process to achieve outcomes.

2.5 Compare data with standards, charts and tables in order to meet compliance with required specification or test specific requirements.

2.6 Check initial analyses against test plan procedures when non-standard results are obtained.

2.7 Recognise and manage contingencies.

3. Finalise testing processes

3.1 Evaluate testing process, equipment performance and achievement against objectives and report initial results.

3.2 Maintain security and confidentiality of data.

3.3 Debrief stakeholders and test participants.

3.4 Forward test data for analysis.

3.5 Review and amend management plans and any related contracts as appropriate.

3.6 Conduct review of objectives and achievement and prepare outcomes for test report.

Evidence of Performance

Evidence required to demonstrate competence must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria. If not otherwise specified the candidate must demonstrate evidence of performance of the following on at least one occasion.

using management techniques related to testing that may be reasonably complex in terms of scope; degree of risk; environmental, political, cultural and social factors that apply; consequences of failure; degree of control

using management tools suited to the conduct of testing processes

using public relations strategies to promote and gain endorsement


Evidence of Knowledge

Evidence required to demonstrate competence must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria. If not otherwise specified the depth of knowledge demonstrated must be appropriate to the job context of the candidate.

approval processes

change management

contingency planning and management processes

cost schedule control systems

integrated logistics support

legislation, organisational policy and procedures that may impact on the test and evaluation process

management tools suited to the conduct of testing processes

principles relating to the conduct phase of testing processes

resource management

scheduling packages

test and evaluation processes which may be reasonably complex in terms of scope; degree of risk; environmental, political, cultural and social factors that apply; consequences of failure; degree of control

work breakdown structure (WBS)


Assessment Conditions

Competency should be assessed in an actual workplace or in a simulated environment, with access to equipment and infrastructure appropriate to the outcome. Competency should be demonstrated over time to ensure the candidate is assessed across a variety of situations.

Assessors must satisfy the NVR/AQTF mandatory competency requirements for assessors.


Foundation Skills

The foundation skills demands of this unit have been mapped for alignment with the Australian Core Skills Framework (ACSF). The following tables outline the performance levels indicated for successful attainment of the unit.

Further information on ACSF and the foundation skills underpinning this unit can be found in the Foundation Skills Guide on the GSA website.


Competency Field

Testing