====== Observation ======

[[dido:99_annexes:annex-b-terms-and-definitions:start|Go up to Terms and Definitions]]

===== Discussion =====

An Observation records information detected, measured, received, or otherwise obtained while examining an object, activity, event, or condition.

During a [[dido:99_annexes:annex-b-terms-and-definitions:t:test_execution|Test Execution]], an Observation records an aspect of the behavior, state, output, performance, or operating conditions of a [[dido:99_annexes:annex-b-terms-and-definitions:c:candidate_solution|Candidate Solution]] or its [[dido:99_annexes:annex-b-terms-and-definitions:t:test_environment|Test Environment]].

An Observation records what occurred without determining whether the observed information satisfies an expected result or acceptance criterion. Evaluation of one or more Observations produces a [[dido:99_annexes:annex-b-terms-and-definitions:t:test_outcome|Test Outcome]].

An Observation may contribute to [[dido:99_annexes:annex-b-terms-and-definitions:e:evidence|Evidence]] after DIDO-TE preserves the information, its source, its context, and its provenance.

===== Definition =====

//information obtained by detecting, measuring, receiving, or otherwise examining a property, state, behavior, event, or condition//

===== Source =====

Adapted from the observation concepts described by:

  * [[https://www.iso.org/standard/82463.html|ISO 19156:2023, Geographic information — Observations, measurements and samples]]
  * [[https://csrc.nist.gov/glossary/term/Test|NIST Computer Security Resource Center, “test”]]

===== Note =====

An Observation remains distinct from its interpretation.

For example:

  * “The service returned status code 503” records an Observation.
  * “The service failed the availability criterion” records a Test Outcome.

An Observation record identifies the applicable:

  * Test Execution
  * Source
  * Observed property, state, behavior, event, or condition
  * Observed value or description
  * Time of observation
  * Collection or measurement method
  * Measurement unit, when applicable
  * Relevant operating conditions

===== Example =====

During a Test Execution, DIDO-TE records that the Candidate Solution rejected a Transfer Bundle and returned status code 403 at 14:32:18 UTC. This record constitutes an Observation. Comparison of the Observation with the expected behavior determines the Test Outcome.

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