Michael R. Fine

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Michael R. Fine (born November 29, 1966) (also Mike, Michael Fine) is a leading expert in the field of beta testing. Fine has been involved with and conducting beta tests for more than 15 years and is the author of "Beta Testing for Better Software" (Wiley, 2002). He has managed or worked on more than 500 beta tests on various products including hardware and software and in all areas of technology. Through his extensive experience he has helped refine the best practices utilized in effective beta programs.

Fine has expertise in the mobile, communication and wireless fields. He conducted beta tests on the first Palm handheld devices, the original Bluetooth designs and was heavily involved in the launch of xDSL and WiFi. In addition, he was actively engaged in the testing of all new modem standards starting with V.32 up through V.92. However, he has diverse experience and has beta tested technology products in additional industries and technologies. He currently consults many leading companies on beta test management.

Fine is the director of client services and a founder of Centercode, Inc., a beta test software and services company. Prior to helping found Centercode, Fine was the beta test manager for Megahertz, US Robotics, and ultimately, 3Com Corporation for more than seven years. He was responsible for managing the beta testing of 3Com networking and communications products for three global divisions. He also is actively engaged in promoting beta testing as a concept and advocating its benefits to developers. He currently speaks on the topic and has authored numerous articles on the subject.

Fine writes on various subjects. He was a technical writer for Iomega Corporation and has published numerous freelance magazine articles. He is the author of three books including:

Beta Testing for Better Software (ISBN 0471250376)
Utah: The Complete Ski and Snowboard Guide (ISBN 0881507423)
Canoeing and Kayaking Utah (ISBN 0881507032)

Fine is also an inventor. He is a contributing inventor of U.S. Patent 6215799 for an ISDN Analog Interface and U.S. Patent 6275933 for a security design.

Fine is a graduate ('89) of Weber State University and is a currently serving member of the school's Alumni Association Board. He is also a graduate of Loyola Academy ('84) in Wilmette, Illinois.

Fine is a member of Pi Kappa Alpha national fraternity ('86 Eta Theta).