Application
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to select and use software and hardware diagnostic and testing tools.
It applies to individuals in a wide range of information and communications technology (ICT) areas who are required to test software and hardware.
No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Elements and Performance Criteria
ELEMENT | PERFORMANCE CRITERIA |
Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1. Establish process operational requirements | 1.1 Identify process requirements, ensuring they are accurate, complete, prioritised, have functionality, and reference appropriate method or media types 1.2 Identify conflicting or overlapping requirements 1.3 Document and validate functional requirements of the client 1.4 Identify and validate available resources and budget |
2. Select hardware and software for processing function | 2.1 Identify and evaluate relevant hardware and software tools with reference to functional requirements 2.2 Identify and analyse relevant products and equipment interdependencies with reference to functional requirements and system architecture 2.3 Identify and document appropriate tools, including their limitations for the required use and industry standards 2.4 Select and acquire tools according to purchasing policies |
3. Configure and test hardware and software | 3.1 Install and configure appropriate hardware and software tools according to vendor guidelines with reference to system architecture and client functionality requirements 3.2 Configure system architecture for optimal usage 3.3 Prepare, schedule and execute tests and record outcomes 3.4 Track errors, and interpret and correct them 3.5 Make changes to the tested hardware or software based on test results 3.6 Document the hardware and software configuration according to requirements |
4. Use and validate software and hardware | 4.1 Provide appropriate training of client with reference to guides, instructions and vendor materials 4.2 Use hardware and software according to vendor guidelines 4.3 Validate hardware and software performance with reference to client functional requirements |
Evidence of Performance
Evidence of the ability to:
evaluate hardware and software that meet functional requirements
select and use the correct automating tools
develop an automating process to produce an outcome that is measurable and meets specified requirements
install, configure and document hardware and software according to vendor guidelines
validate hardware and software performance against client usage requirements.
Note: If a specific volume or frequency is not stated, then evidence must be provided at least once.
Evidence of Knowledge
To complete the unit requirements safely and effectively, the individual must:
identify and apply batch scripting of nominated automating software routines
discuss relevant aspects of the client business domain
identify and apply vendor product directions
describe current industry accepted hardware and software products, and their features and capabilities
explain the functions and features of:
development tools, including animation development tools
development package automating options
third-party tools for automating a range of software applications
media management tools
identify interaction between relevant hardware and software products.
Assessment Conditions
Gather evidence to demonstrate consistent performance in conditions that are safe and replicate the workplace. Noise levels, production flow, interruptions and time variances must be typical of those experienced in the general information and communications technology (ICT) industry, and include access to:
a site where automated processing may be carried out
hardware and software currently used in industry
a range of automating vendor products currently used in industry
client requirements documentation
organisational requirements.
Assessors must satisfy NVR/AQTF assessor requirements.
Foundation Skills
This section describes language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills incorporated in the performance criteria that are required for competent performance.
Skill | Performance Criteria | Description |
Reading | 1.1, 1.2, 1.4, 2.1, 2.4, 3.1, 3.3-3.5, 4.2 | Identifies and comprehends a large range of complex textual and diagrammatic information with systems related terminology to determine organisational requirements and standards, and select appropriate tools and processes |
Writing | 1.3, 2.3, 2.4, 3.1-3.3, 3.6 | Uses correct spelling and grammar together with relevant systems related terminology to document progress and results, and develop user documentation Converts jargon, terminology and acronyms into plain English Uses specific scripting and syntax to install, configure and program the system to user requirements |
Oral communication | 1.1, 1.2, 1.4, 2.1, 2.2, 3.3, 4.1 | Uses effective listening and questioning techniques and systems related terminology to elicit information about the systems and make the correct tool selection Uses plain English and interprets technical terminology when liaising with clients and providing training |
Numeracy | 1.4, 2.4 | Performs mathematical calculations to interpret complex financial information |
Interact with others | 4.1 | Shares information and resources, provides training voluntarily and feedback to client when required |
Navigate the world of work | 2.3 | Recognises and follows explicit and implicit protocols and meets expectations associated with own role |
Get the work done | 1.1, 1.2, 1.4, 2.1-2.4, 3.1-3.4, 3.5, 4.2, 4.3 | Takes responsibility for planning and organising own workload, identifying ways of sequencing and combining elements for greater efficiency Understands the purposes, specific functions and key features of common digital systems and tools, and operates them effectively to complete routine tasks Initiates standard diagnostic procedures when responding to familiar and unfamiliar problems within immediate context |
Sectors
General ICT