The Goddard Automated Tools for Enhanced SSIT (science software
integration and test) or "GATES" is a suite of Web-based and command line tools
to support the integration and test of algorithms being run in the GES DISC
production systems.
GATES has been in use at the GES DISC since 1997 and has evolved to
changing demands and technologies ever since.
GATES is comprised of command line scripts, CGI scripts,
and documented testing procedures. Most of the software is written in Perl
for both ease and maintainability. The design goals of GATES were to
automate, enhance, and document results and metrics from SSIT activity at
the GES DISC for science software being integrated into the production
systems.
The Swatter
The Swatter is a Web-based tool that is used for all SSIT at the GES DISC.
After logging into the Swatter, a tester is presented a list of
ordered tests
and procedures that
an algorithm must pass before it can be approved for integration into
the production system. As each test or proceedure is completed,
information about the test is saved in a database that can be queried
by another Web-based tool, called the Slicer.
Information saved includes the tester's name,
the start and stop time of the test (and hence, duration), the test
results, and any comments the tester wishes to note.
The test procedures described in the Swatter are meant to be very detailed.
In most cases, the tester can copy the command directly off of the Web
page and paste it into an Xterm window to execute. Many of the test
procedures result in various GATES command line scripts being run.
The text comprising the test procedures are stored separately from the
Swatter Perl code and thus can be updated easily as warranted.
Command Line Scripts
GATES includes many command line scripts. These scripts automate the running
of a particular test on the algorithm or some part of the delivered
algorithm package. For example,
there are scripts that validate documentation accompanying
the algorithm and check for standards compliance of the source
code.
GATES command line scripts are generally written so that all test results
are saved in preassigned locations
and serve as test documentation or quality records for ISO 9000 compliance.
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