ASP Data Exchange Tips

Source:
Don LaCourse, Principal Partner, eDocHelp
Editor, 3DCADTips.com

These tips relate to websites that offer ASP (Application Service Provider) online data exchange services.

Always test any ASP-based (application service provider) data translation service before using it in a production environment. The test should include files from actual transfer participants such as customers and vendors. Scope the test to those geometry types that are similar to what you expect to encounter in production (don't try to test all data types). The tests should also take into account the ASP's policies and procedures.

Customer and Vendor Tests
Test the ASP with each customer and vendor you plan to exchange data with and with each different 3D CAD system. A single customer or vendor may expect to exchange data with more than one 3D CAD system. Be sure to exchange a paper print with dimensions along with the 3D CAD data so that you can independently verify accuracy.

Measuring Results
After establishing the test requirements, determine how you'll measure the results. Allow for a certain number of errors if they occur in areas that are not critical to the form, fit, or function of the part.

Test Case Characteristics
Consider these characteristics and issues when you select or develop a test case. Be sure that it:

• is relevant to your business,
• is developed and used on systems consistent with those you normally use,
• is developed with design methods similar to those used in your business,
• covers many and ideally all of the entities and constructs you normally use or anticipate using, and
• takes advantage of the capabilities of your systems to influence and record configuration and switch settings

MCAD Modeling Methods: Data Exchange Tips

by Don LaCourse
Cadalyst Magazine, Sep 15, 2004