Hardware/software capability rating system

摘要

Techniques and tools for rating computer products are described. For example, software ratings are based on subjective evaluations to determine computer system requirements for a positive user experience, while a computer running a capability tool rates a computer system's (or hardware component's) ability to run software. A capability rating for hardware is determined by comparing a set of features and performance results with capability rating requirements. In another aspect, a capability rating is communicated using a standardized presentation. In another aspect, capability rating level requirements are proposed (e.g., by a ratings board) and then finalized. A capability rating level is determined for computer products (e.g., by a testing organization) based on the finalized requirements and analysis of the products (e.g., by a computer running a capability tool). In another aspect, a software system comprises an inventory module, a performance testing module, and an inventory and performance evaluator module.

主权项

1. A method comprising:
obtaining capability rating level requirements specifying performance criteria that must be satisfied by a computer system to achieve each of a plurality of capability rating levels in a standardized product capability rating system that rates computer systems at standardized levels based on their ability to run software applications; utilizing a software tool running on the computer system to (i) perform a weakest link analysis of the capability of said computer system to run one or more software applications, (ii) compare results of said weakest link analysis to the capability rating level requirements specified in the standardized product capability rating system, and (iii) using the comparison to determine a capability rating level for the computer system, the capability rating level based, at least in part, on a component of the computer system that has the lowest capability rating level as determined by the weakest link analysis; and assigning the determined capability rating level to the computer system, the assigned capability rating level operative as a standardized indicator for assessing capabilities provided by the computer system for executing the one or more software applications, wherein a decision-making entity creates the capability rating level requirements based, at least in part, on feedback that is received in response to proposed capability rating level requirements.