Defining Test - Examples

Student taking SATs

Test

Students takes the test in English, Math, etc.

Assess

Grade the tests
Compare Test Score to University or College Standard

Discern

If student clears the SAT Gate, then consider other issues to determine if they should be accepted

Road Test of Car

Test

Potential buyer drives car around

Assess

Subjective impression of handling, acceleration, breaking, etc.

Discern

If car 'passes' subjective assessment, consider more significantly on price, etc.

Load Test of Software System

Test

Run appropriate volume of virtual users in a given activity mix against the system and capture multiple data points

Assess

Assess the performance of the system against predefined criteria

Discern

Can we expect to be successful if we move forward with the system as is,
OR do we need to improve the system
OR do we need to seriously rethink this approach.