Beta Testing Program FAQ's

[Ashley Robinson]

What is a Beta Test Program?
A Beta test program is an organized testing phase performed by real product users in real-life environments.

What is Beta Software?
Beta software is developed software that is in the final stages of completion and is ready for testing. Testing will identify bugs and areas of improvement.

What is expected of Topaz Beta testers?
1. Feedback – tell us your thoughts, impressions, ideas and suggestions on the product – this includes the good and the bad.
2. Bug reporting – be willing to provide detailed accounts of any crashes, error messages, stability issues or other problems.
3. Debugging – be willing to work with the Topaz Beta team in all necessary areas and be willing to retest any fixes or patches.
4. Constant communication – be willing to read all Topaz Beta newsletters, fill out surveys and / or polls, and respond to any emails, calls or forum posts from the Topaz Beta team.
5. Specific Testing Tasks

What is a bug?
A bug is considered to be anything within the program that does not function the way that you think it should.

What are the benefits of being a Topaz Beta tester?
Being a Beta tester allows you to contribute valuable ideas and feedback that will be used to improve the features and functionality of our software. This includes reporting bugs and suggestions that will help us fine-tune the program to improve user experience and productivity. Beta tester’s suggestions are often into the final product releases. Plus you will get a first hand look at the new Topaz products before the rest of the world.

What are the requirements for being a Topaz Beta tester?
You must be at least 18, based in the US and have a PC running Windows XP® Windows Vista®, Windows 7® or an Intel-based Mac computer running a compatible version of image editing software.

How can I sign up?
To apply to become a beta tester, please register for the forum and then follow these steps:

Click Group Memberships.

Then, select the Beta Testers group and click Join Group. When prompted for a reason, enter the following:

[Name]: [Operating System] - [Host Software]
(for example, Ashley Robinson: Mac OSX 10.5.8 - Photoshop CS4)

And that's it! We will review all requests and get back to you shortly. Because we maintain a limited number of beta testers, we may temporarily stop accepting beta tester requests at times. However, all beta tester requests will always be kept on the forum.

If you're accepted, you'll see a new section of the forum open up labeled Beta Testing.

Do I have to pay a fee to join the Topaz Beta program or pay for the software?
No. Both the beta program and the software are free. All that we ask is that you provide us with your feedback.

How long does the Beta testing process last?
A beta test process is broken down into three cycles. A cycle will typically last between 1-2 weeks.

What kind of compensation do I receive for testing?
The Topaz Beta program is voluntary. There is not compensation for your participation. However those that do provide feedback during the testing phase will typically receive occasional discounts or a complimentary product license to the final product when it is available.

Can I give the software to other people in my company or family to test?
No. The Topaz Beta confidentiality agreement is between you and Topaz Labs LLC. You are not permitted to distribute the software or any product related information to anyone without prior permission from Topaz Labs.

What kind of help is available if I have problems with the beta software?
Once you are selected for a beta project, you will have access to all of the tools and materials needed to successfully test and report on the software. This includes the Topaz Beta newsletter, a list of known issues, a list of fixes and new features, a discussion forum, beta email address to contact the Topaz Beta team, product release notes and a user guide.

Can I choose which products I want to test?
Yes, if you are selected as a beta tester you will be able to accept or reject a product assignment. However, frequent assignment rejections could result in being removed from the program to make room for others interested in the program. Additionally, not providing feedback during testing can also result in being dropped from the program.

[Fo Tenx]

Hi
I tried to join the Beta Testing program but the instructions aren't clear about what message comes up after clicking 'join group'. I only get the attached page and nothing about a joining reason...am I being tricked into beta testing the beta testing joining routine!?

[edspec]

I really love your software and would be honored to beta test your next jewel.

Here is the info you require;

edspec, WIndows Vista Premium, Photoshop CS#