What type of testing assesses whether a software product meets user needs?

Acceptance testing is specifically designed to assess whether a software product meets the needs and requirements of the user. This type of testing is typically conducted at the end of the development process and focuses on validating that the software behaves as expected in a real-world environment. The goal is to ensure that the product not only fulfills its functional requirements but also aligns with user expectations and needs.

Unlike other forms of testing, such as functional or performance testing, which examine specific aspects of the product (like features or speed), acceptance testing takes a broader view. It considers overall user satisfaction and usability, ensuring that the product is ready for release to end users. This aligns closely with Agile principles, where user feedback and satisfaction are crucial for the development process. The emphasis on user needs during acceptance testing distinguishes it from other testing types, enabling stakeholders to confirm that the software delivered is genuinely useful and valuable to its intended audience.