What are IST narratives?
An IST (integrated systems testing) narrative is the script for proving that a building's or facility's systems work together as designed. It takes each cause and effect scenario, such as a detector or manual call point activating in a zone, and walks through exactly what should happen next across every connected system: alarms and voice messages, smoke control, lifts, access control, ventilation shutdown, building management interfaces and more. Each step has a clear expected result, so witnesses can confirm it on the day and sign it off.
What's included
- Every cause and effect scenario, written as a clear sequence of test steps
- The expected response of each connected system at each step
- Space to record results and witness sign-off
- A consistent, branded layout that is easy to follow on site
- Print-ready PDF plus an editable Word version for your team
How EJH produces IST narratives
We build the narrative directly from the cause & effect matrix, so every scenario in the matrix appears in the narrative and nothing is missed or reinterpreted. Because the matrix is the single source of truth, a change to the matrix flows straight through to an updated narrative. The result is a document that the commissioning team, the client and any third-party witnesses can all work from with confidence.
What it means for your project
- Witnessed testing runs smoothly, with everyone following the same script
- Every interface is tested, because every scenario in the matrix is covered
- A clear record of what was tested, what happened and who signed it off
- Less time on site and fewer retests
Frequently asked questions
What is an IST narrative?
An IST (integrated systems testing) narrative is a step-by-step script describing how connected building or facility systems should respond to each test scenario, used to run and record witnessed integrated testing.
What do you need from us to produce one?
A cause & effect matrix is the ideal starting point. If you don't have one yet, we can produce the cause & effect matrix first and build the narrative from it.
What format do we receive it in?
A print-ready PDF for use on site and an editable Word version, so your team can add project-specific notes.
Can you help on the day of testing?
Yes. As well as writing the narrative, we can support the integrated testing itself and compile the results into your handover documentation.