Passing AST: Anywhere, Anytime

Windows and Apple may be the giants of operating systems (OS), but they’re not the only ones in use today. There are hundreds of OS installed on everything, from computer servers to plane cockpits, with only a small portion available for public consumption. This is the rationale behind the second automated software testing (AST) requirement: OS independence.

This isn’t like releasing Windows and Mac versions of various software. One program must be compatible with practically every OS in existence, which isn’t scarce in public software. For example, if Microsoft Word wants to pass AST, it must work on all platforms, not produce an entirely different version from the original.

Java best embodies OS independence; in fact, it holds the motto “write once, run anywhere.” It means the code can be operated on any medium with a Java virtual machine with a few tweaks, making Java a standard for nearly every technological marvel. Software development can learn a thing or two from Java’s success.

With many tech companies developing their own systems for their respective applications, it goes without saying that OS independence must be part of the agenda. If a system fails at a critical time, OS independence will allow it to move and work on a different platform.