TAP verifies ITS systems through a staged acceptance program that moves from the factory floor to full network operation. Each stage tests more of the system in more realistic conditions, is governed by an approved test plan traced to the contract requirements, and is closed only when its defects are resolved.
Commissioning, initial configuration and a controlled go-live then carry the accepted system into passenger service, with intensive support until operation is stable and overall acceptance is granted.
Acceptance Program
Multiple Stages From Factory to Full Operation
Each stage must be passed before the next begins, so problems are found where they are cheapest to fix and the system arrives in service already proven.
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FAT
Factory Acceptance Test
WhereManufacturer's premises, in a controlled environmentWhat is testedAt least one production-identical unit of every equipment typeAuthority roleWitnesses testsUnlocksFirst batch production -
SIT
System Integration Test
WhereIntegration test bed with vehicles, stations, a depot and the control centerWhat is testedEvery equipment type and interface operating togetherAuthority roleWitnesses and runs independent testsUnlocksSite installation -
SAT
Site Acceptance Test
WhereInitial vehicles and stations in real operating conditionsWhat is testedIntegrated functions and performance during trial operationAuthority roleWitnesses and runs independent testsUnlocksMass production and rollout -
OAT
Overall Acceptance Test
WhereThe complete installed networkWhat is testedAll ITS functions, commissioning and operational handoverAuthority roleReviews, witnesses and signs acceptance schedulesUnlocksOverall acceptance
Test Types
Ways a System Is Proven
Each stage combines the test types that matter most at that point, building from individual devices to the complete operating network.
Hardware Tests
Operating parameters of every device checked against the specifications, manufacturer data and the detailed design.
Functional Tests
Every functional and operational requirement for each device and subsystem demonstrated and recorded.
Environmental & EMC Tests
Environmental, electrical and electromagnetic compliance, first per device and then in the integrated system.
Human Factors Tests
Every device with a user interface assessed for clarity, accessibility and ease of use.
End-to-End Data Tests
Connectivity, data processing, messages and software updates verified across every level of the system.
Scenario Tests
Operational use cases run to prove every system-level requirement under realistic conditions.
Defect Management
Every Defect Classified, Tracked and Closed
All test failures, errors and missing functions are recorded in a defect database linked to performance monitoring and classified by their impact on operation.
| Severity | Definition | Required action |
|---|---|---|
| Severity 1 | Required functionality substantially unavailable, operations disrupted, or revenue loss established or expected. | Resolved before the stage is accepted |
| Severity 2 | Sub-functions or performance not to specification, with normal operation maintained through a workaround. | Resolved before the stage is accepted |
| Severity 3 | Minor software or usability issue with an available workaround. | Corrected and proven in the next stage |
- Severity may be reclassified by the authority based on operational impact.
- Regression tests run on every affected device when testing restarts.
- Any hardware change after factory acceptance triggers a retest.
- Defect and performance status reported weekly during acceptance.
Commissioning & Initial Configuration
Configured for the Network It Will Serve
Before service begins, TAP commissions every device in its installed location and configures the system with the operational data the network depends on.
- Devices
Device Commissioning
Every device configured, connected to the network and confirmed operational at its installed location.
- Performance
KPI Configuration
Performance indicators set up in the monitoring system so measurement starts from the first day of service.
- Network Data
Route & Stop Data
Stop-to-stop and route distances measured, and stop coordinates and names recorded for automated announcements.
- Security
Keys & Settings
Production security keys, fare parameters and access rights loaded under controlled procedures.
Go-Live
A Controlled Path Into Passenger Service
Go-live is planned, rehearsed and decided on evidence. Services can begin in phases, line by line or system by system, before overall acceptance is complete.
- 1
Operational Readiness Review
Systems, staff training, support coverage and open defects assessed against readiness criteria.
- 2
Cutover Runbook
Every cutover step defined with owners, timings, dependencies and fallback actions.
- 3
Dress Rehearsal
The cutover rehearsed end to end and the runbook refined before the live event.
- 4
Go/No-Go Decision
A recorded decision with the authority, based on objective criteria and accepted risks.
- 5
Service Commencement
Systems switched into passenger service, with disruptive work carried out in off-hours windows.
- 6
Hypercare
Engineers on site and in the control center, with daily issue triage until operation is stable.
Related
Works Together With
Hardware & Software
Management
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