This standard defines the requirements and guidelines for test method specifications and test method implementations for measuring conformance to POSIX standards. Test specification standard developers for other Application Programming Interface (API) standards are encouraged to use this standard. This document is aimed primarily at developers and users of test method specifications and implementations.

This standard defines broad requirements, and provides guidelines for test method specifications and implementations for all POSIX standards. This standard will revise, enhance, and replace the existing 1003.3-1991 standard.

The revision of the existing standard has three purposes. First, to apply the lessons learned from industry use of the existing standard. To redefine, revise and clarify requirements for test method specifications and implementations. Second, to provide guidelines for satisfying those requirements. Third, to address test method issues resulting from the creation of profile standards.