What is a user acceptance test primarily used for?

A user acceptance test (UAT) is conducted primarily to assess whether the software meets the needs and requirements of the end-users. This type of testing is often the last phase in the software testing process and is critical for validating that the application is ready for deployment. During UAT, real users evaluate the usability and functionality of the software in a real-world scenario to determine if it behaves as expected. Their feedback is essential for identifying any issues before the software goes live, ensuring that it aligns with user expectations and requirements.

The context of UAT differentiates it from other testing phases. For instance, fixing bugs before a software release focuses on resolving flaws identified by developers or quality assurance testers rather than end-users. Similarly, testing software in a controlled environment aims to ensure that various system components work well together but doesn't incorporate the end-user perspective that UAT emphasizes. Additionally, while training users is important for adoption, it is a separate process from testing functionality and usability, which is the primary goal of user acceptance testing.