HCA is a complex software program.  During development we work with both our in house testers and home automation users out in the real world to verify the design and implementation.  In this way we get a better feeling as to what features need enhancement, what works and what doesn't.

There is always on beta program in progress as we are always developing HCA and adding new features.  We generally  accept new people into  the program a few months before we intend to ship the product.  But we are always on the lookout for new beta sites and we always accept application.  Just be aware that while there may not be an open slot in a beta program right now there may be one in a few months.   When we open a beta program up to new sites we will send email to all those who have expressed interest. While not always the case, most of our beta programs begin in late Fall of each year.

We are looking for beta testers who will not only use the software looking for bugs but also provide suggestions for improvements. It is never too late to make changes in the software and each suggestion will be carefully considered.

If you would like to be considered for the HCA beta program, you must:

1. Maintain confidentiality about the software you receive and its features.
2. Install and use the software promptly.
3. Test the product and report problems and suggestions promptly.
4. Understand that the increased level of contact (such as phone calls from us to you) is for the beta period only. At the conclusion of the beta test program, normal product support will be available.
5. Understand that a pre-release product may contain problems. You should expect some down time, and you might encounter loss of data.
6. Upon notice of completion of the beta test, you must destroy all of the pre-release software and beta program documentation.
7. Be willing to be a detective.  Just finding a bug is only one piece of the puzzle.   You must be able and want to do the work to get to our developers a way to recreate the bug on their computer.  To do this you will often be called upon to create a new HCA file with just enough stuff in it so that the bug can be recreated. This is harder than it sounds but very important.

Testers are expected to provide their own home automation hardware, we do not provide it.

What do you get from being a beta tester?  The beta tester, as part of a select group, gets to work with the software ahead of others. Suggestions made always are closely examined, and carry weight with the development team.

If you would like to be considered for inclusion on our list of testers, please send email to Beta @ HCATech.com

In your email, please include some information about the home automation solution you will be using HCA with, what hardware you have, and why you would make a good beta tester.