Overview
ISO 10303-32:1998 defines a methodology and framework for conformance testing within the ISO 10303 product data representation and exchange series. It specifies the techniques, roles and mutual responsibilities of testing laboratories and clients during conformance assessment. The standard’s objective is to improve comparability and consistency of conformance testing results for product data exchange implementations across the product life cycle.
Key topics and requirements
- Roles and responsibilities: Clear requirements for what testing laboratories and clients must do at each phase of the conformance assessment process.
- Test phases covered: Preparation for testing, test campaign execution, analysis of results and production of the conformance test report.
- Administrative artifacts: Requirements for production, review and completion of test-related documentation such as PICS and PIXIT and the selection/assignment of abstract test case parameters.
- Test campaign management: Procedures for assignment of test cases, parameter value assignment, execution and result collection.
- Reporting and compliance: Standardized content and structure for conformance test reports and guidance on using reports for compliance assessment.
- Mutual agreements: Emphasis on documented agreements between testing laboratory and client to ensure consistent selection and execution of standardized tests.
- Annexes and guidance: Includes proforma reports, guidance for PIXIT preparation, certification considerations and example test reports.
Practical applications
ISO 10303-32 is used to ensure objective, repeatable and comparable conformance testing of systems that implement product data exchange and representation standards. Typical uses:
- Verifying CAD/CAM/PLM software and data exchange tools for compliance with ISO 10303 application protocols.
- Defining test contracts and acceptance criteria between vendors and customers during procurement or integration projects.
- Supporting independent testing laboratories that produce conformance test reports used by certification bodies or accreditation organizations.
- Harmonizing test practices across organizations to reduce interoperability risk and improve supplier validation.
Who uses it:
- Testing laboratories and test houses
- Clients procuring product data exchange solutions
- Software vendors developing STEP/ISO 10303 implementations
- Accreditation and certification bodies
- Test realisers producing executable test suites from abstract test suites
Related standards
- ISO 10303-31 (general conformance testing concepts)
- ISO 10303-34 / -35 (abstract test methods)
- Other ISO 10303 parts (abstract test suites and application protocols) - used together to define specific test content and execution.
Keywords: ISO 10303-32, conformance testing, testing laboratory, client, product data exchange, PICS, PIXIT, conformance test report, ISO 10303.