What term refers to an early testing stage of software development?

The term that refers to an early testing stage of software development is Alpha testing. This phase occurs after the development of the software has been completed and before it is released to a broader audience. During Alpha testing, the software is typically tested by the internal team to identify bugs and gather feedback on functionality.

Alpha testing is crucial as it allows developers to catch issues early on, ensuring the software's reliability and functionality before it moves into subsequent testing phases. This stage often involves limited or controlled access to a select group of users, often consisting of team members or stakeholders who can provide valuable insights.

In contrast, Agile methodology is a broader approach to software development that emphasizes iterative progress and collaboration, rather than referring to a specific testing stage. Abstraction is a concept in programming that involves hiding complex reality while exposing only the necessary parts, and it does not directly relate to testing phases. "Application" generally refers to the software itself rather than a specific stage in its development or testing process. Understanding Alpha testing is essential to grasp the software development lifecycle and ensures a smoother transition to later stages such as Beta testing and final release.