Hands-On Review of qTest Test Management Tool

This review of the qTest Test Management Tool is based on the experience of guest author Kaushal Amin, whose team is currently using the software. The author’s details can be found at the end of this article.

I have recently had the opportunity to explore qTest, the latest Test Management Tool developed by QASymphony.

This software is specifically designed to seamlessly integrate with Agile development methodologies and offers a wide range of options for the testing phase of any project. With qTest, users can input project requirements, generate test cases, execute tests, and store all the results.

The software provides a clear and transparent workflow that highlights the lifecycle of every individual bug encountered. It ensures accountability by clearly identifying responsible individuals for each task.

In addition, qTest can easily integrate with existing bug tracking software, and all data is stored in the cloud, providing convenient access. The software offers a 30-day free trial with a license for up to 5 users.

qTest Test Management Tool – A Complete Review

Five-Minute Setup

I began my experience with qTest by using the free trial version. After providing my site address (which serves as the cloud-based home on QASymphony’s server) and filling in a few other details, I received a confirmation email. After verifying my account, I was able to start using the software.

One of the great advantages of cloud-based solutions is that there is no need to download or install software. Users can access their account from anywhere with an internet connection.

User Interface

It is advisable to read the quick guide that appears when first entering qTest, as it provides valuable insights into the software’s features and functionality.

The help guides are context-sensitive and provide relevant information as users explore different features. The layout and navigation options at the top of the screen are intuitive and easy to understand for testers.

The main sections of the user interface include:

Test Plan – This section allows testers to track the build schedule.

Requirements – Users can enter project requirements or user stories from Agile development. Additionally, it is possible to create test cases directly from the requirements, automatically linking them.

Test Design – This section is dedicated to creating test cases.

Test Execution – In this module, users can plan their test cycles, structure test suites, and execute tests. All test results are recorded.

Defects – For users already using bug tracking software like JIRA or Bugzilla, qTest can be directly integrated. Alternatively, the defects module in qTest can be used to track and store all defect details.

Reports – This section allows users to generate various reports, customize their content, and analyze individual bugs or provide high-level overviews based on date or specific fields.

After the modules mentioned above, there is a Tools menu option where users can customize their qTest experience:

• User permissions: Users can define access levels for different functionalities.
• Custom fields: Additional fields can be added to tailor the management solution according to specific requirements.
• External systems: Integration with JIRA, Bugzilla, FogBugz, Rally, and VersionOne ALMs is possible.
• Notifications: Users can configure email notifications for specific events.
• Environments: Relevant environments can be selected to match the testing requirements.

Going Live With qTest – Pros

qTest allows users to get up and running quickly compared to other test management tools. Depending on the existing data available for requirements, the setup process can be further expedited by importing relevant information.

Once ready, the “Notifications icon” located at the top right corner provides real-time updates on any changes or developments in the project. This feature proves useful for project management purposes, enabling users to address issues promptly by accessing defect reports or test results directly.

The software does an excellent job of automatically linking records and filling in data when possible. Features like the ability to clone bugs save valuable time and contribute to an efficient testing process. The Testpad pop-up, which appears during test execution, allows users to record results without switching between multiple applications.

Every action in the system is recorded, ensuring complete traceability and accountability. Users can easily trace a defect from its discovery to its resolution. The extensive reporting capabilities of qTest provide valuable insights for cross-departmental meetings and progress reporting to management.

Some noteworthy features of qTest Test Management Software include:

• The ability to import and export test cases from Excel spreadsheets and other test management tools.
• Test case and test suite reusability across multiple releases.
• Efficient requirement management and traceability.
• Full control over test case modification permissions.
• Change tracking for test cases and requirements.
• Comprehensive reporting capabilities, providing real-time information on test cycles, test results, test progress, and team productivity.

The Flaws

One of the drawbacks of a cloud-based solution like qTest is that it may experience some lag depending on the user’s internet connection. Additionally, testing activities are dependent on a stable internet connection, and any disruption in connectivity will halt the testing process. In terms of features, qTest is well-equipped, but it would be beneficial to extend the availability of the rich text editor beyond the Requirements module.

Fortunately, qTest provides a way to report defects or suggest changes through the Help icon in the top navigation bar. The QASymphony team is responsive to such feedback and strives to accommodate change requests. Regular updates are released for qTest, constantly improving the software.

Conclusion

A Cloud-Based Solution Worth Exploring

There are very few reasons not to give qTest a try. The 30-day free trial offers ample time for a comprehensive assessment, and users are likely to be impressed enough to invest in licenses for multiple users.

While the cloud-based nature of the software may raise concerns for some users, the convenience outweighs any potential drawbacks. qTest is highly accessible, easy to adopt, delivers quick results, and offers excellent value for the price.

Moreover, qTest is ideal for gradual scaling, allowing organizations to gradually expand their usage. However, don’t just take my word for it – try it out for yourself. The cloud has a lot to offer in this case.

About the Author
Kaushal Amin is the Chief Technology Officer for KMS Technology – a Software Development and IT services firm based in Atlanta, GA, and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Previously, he served as the VP of Technology at LexisNexis and held software engineering roles at Intel and IBM.