More efficient software testing through the application of design of experiments (DOE)

The paper presents one application of the design of experiments techniques to the software test of a thrust vector control system similar to those used in space booster vehicles and upper stages. Traditionally, testing similar control systems has involved substantial investments in time to test all the components of the system and large quantities of engineering experience to make critical choices. The use of design of experiments methods still requires a thorough understanding of the system under test, but significant gains (demonstrated as high as 10:1) may be made in terms of analytical run reduction with the same or greater level of confidence in the completeness of the testing and hence software reliability