While client/server applications eclipse mainframe computers for end user friendliness, their more complex user interfaces, greater use of third party software, and multiple platform compatibility requirements can be daunting. To the rescue of managers and developers of such ubiquitous systems comes software developer and consultant Bourne, with a trouble-shooting plan focusing on GUI-based testing tools such as QA Partner, SQA Suite, and WinRunner; also considers JAD and RAD environments. Overviews how client/server systems differ from traditional central/dumb terminal systems; testing tools (editors, debuggers, wizards, capture/playback, stress and load test tools); and future directions (e.g. Web-based Internet/Intranet applications, multitiered systems, and automated data generation tools). Annotation c. by Book News, Inc., Portland, Or.