Beta Consulting
I work as a Beta Consultant for MicroStrategy. Within software development there are 3 main categories; Alpha, Beta; Generally Available (GA).
Alpha software is in active development. It has rapid changes in the code and is undergoing constant revision. At this stage development is usually driven by documented features that are expected and an outline of the final product.
Beta software has reached a stable debugging phase. Most of the features are incorporated and working. The programmers are mainly dealing with debugging of logical errors in the program and making minor design modifications based on usability and external testing. Documentation is not usually complete and some minor user interface issues may exist. The types of issues in Beta software is highly dependent on the type of software and the pool of beta testers using the product. Many corporations have software that is designed to be used by the general consumer. They will often release beta versions to the general public, or a select group of the public, to use the new software and report on the features and changes. Other companies, such as MicroStrategy, do most beta testing in house, or externally with employee observers and testers.
Generally Available Software (GA) is available to the public. At this point any changes in the software are released as either patches, service packs, new versions.
A patch modifies a specific part of software, usually to fix a specific bug. Service Packs are a way of distributing numerous patches to the general public. Enhancements or bugs that are not deemed critical may be put off until the next version of the product.
What I do for MicroStrategy
I work spend time in the office learning about our new technology. I am able to install alpha builds on my computer so I can become familiar with the developing features until official beta builds are available. Once Beta versions are available I travel to customer sites and test our software on location. Although there is internal testing by QEs (Quality Engineers) there are some things we are not able to reproduce internally. Such things are the customer's hardware environment, data and usage patters. When onsite I am able to review the product with the customer and get their feedback on the features and improvements. Customers gain from the experience because they are able to guide the development and make MicroStrategy Products better because they address the needs of our customers, which are generally large businesses.
When not traveling I also spend time with training. Beta Consultants often do the first rounds of training to the technical support groups and MicroStrategy University instructors who will teach the products to others. We also work and meet with the Technology groups to discuss the features and development of the products.
Karl Kowallis
**Beta Consultant
MicroStrategy, Inc.// "The Power of Intelligent E-Business"// // //**
8000 Towers Crescent Drive
Vienna, Virginia 22180
(703) 848-8600
