AN IMPROVED APPROACH TO PRODUCT QUALITY THROUGH TESTING

Due to the crucial importance of the 1B processor project, AT&T Networ k Systems (NS) implemented extensive testing programs to ensue that th e product delivered was of the highest quality and met customers' need s. In addition to normal customer acceptance testing, the AT&T Network Services Division (NSD) introduced an innovative new strategy called the accelerated life-cycle test program (ALTP) to facilitate the ident ification and repair of defects. NSD used a 4ESS(TM) switch having 100 -percent reversible traffic to test the retrofit process and to ensure that customer service would not be adversely affected by the introduc tion of the 1B into the AT&T network. This paper describes the final p roduct integration and verification processes performed by NS, along w ith the special testing programs established by NSD customers.