What Is IEEE 829?

IEEE 829 is the standard for software and system test documentation, and it's a pretty big deal. You might know it as the IEEE Standard for Software and System Test Documentation, but we like to call it "the manual that tells you how to do your job." Think of it this way: if you work at Starbucks, they tell you how to make coffee, right? They also tell you everything they want you to do while making that coffee—like how much milk or sugar they want in it, what type of cup should be used, etc. It's the same thing with IEEE 829. It tells you how to do your job as a software tester but also lays out all the steps involved in testing a piece of code or system (i.e., what kind of testing should be done at each stage). This standard was developed by The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), an organization dedicated to advancing technology by publishing standards for everything from networking equipment to power plants. IEEE 829 is responsible for defining rules and regulations for each step in the software testing process, as well as how to write documentation for each step. This process helps ensure all steps are carried out correctly, which can help avoid costly errors later. The IEEE wants you to know that they have a lot of rules about documentation and certification. If you don't follow them? Well, then your software won't get certified by them. Why do they care so much? The answer is simple: they want to ensure their certifications' integrity and that the software in question complies with IEEE standards. There are different rules for each documentation stage, so make sure you know what you're doing!