 IOT The chart in Figure A.8 shows different stages of network interoperability testing, which are briefly explained below: Test preparation. Once the need for IOT has been identified between selected vendors, the involved vendors agree on a project plan to cover the testing. A test preparation document is prepared that contains details of the software loads to be tested, the testing schedule and any other project-specific information required by them. Roll-Out Network Project Management Boardroom testing. All suppliers exchange their interface documents with reference to the recognised standards for the interface under test. This analysis leads to a frame document charting down the expected results, which are used as a reference for test case selection. It can also be concluded that no actual testing is needed and leads straight to the reporting phase. Test planning. This phase of the IOT process is where all the participating equipment suppliers agree on the tests to be performed. Once all the tests have been agreed on, a bilateral test plan is produced, which forms the basis for laboratory testing. Laboratory testing. This is the phase where actual testing takes place. Laboratory testing can start once all the entry criteria have been met, as defined in the test plan. All tests defined in the test plan are performed and the results are documented. The testing will end only when the test exit criteria have been met, which is also defined in the test plan. Reporting. A bilateral test report is produced on completion of the testing and approved by all the participating equipment vendors. If there are outstanding issues remaining from laboratory testing, then the participants agree on an action plan in order to address these. Terminal interoperability testing is divided into two categories, i.e. radio interface compatibility and terminal interoperability. Radio Interface Compatibility This testing is done to verify and maintain the compatibility between new and existing SW releases of the network elements with exi