Why Software Testing Needs Revolution? (and Here is How)

Just like the rest of the tech landscape, software testing is continually advancing. With the rate at which technology is evolving, it’s a matter of urgency to reflect – are we, as testers, advancing accordingly? (Please don’t misinterpret this as merely learning to operate 5-6 automation tools).

After nearly a decade of industry experience, having engaged with diverse projects and tech solutions, I am confident to say that it is high time for a revolution in the realm of Software Testing.

As is customary, I have several aspects bolstering my assertion. Keep reading to know more –

The Evolution of End-user Perspectives

Today’s customers and end-users have an array of choices at their disposal, which has made them more selective. Fierce competition has pushed businesses to attract as many customers as possible through various means, including meeting stringent deadlines, managing costs, or providing top-tier products.

The shift in customer expectations necessitates more flawless, visually pleasing, and reliable products or applications within a set timeframe. Moreover, customers have gotten away from providing vague requirements. They now have clear demands and refuse any compromises when these are executed.

In this context, as software testers, we cannot merely adhere to established testing methods. We have to bring about a transformation within ourselves; in our thoughts, notions, strategies, and perception abilities.

This is our way forward:

• Why not ask more questions during requirement analysis?
• Why not prepare clear documentation for ourselves and our team to understand better?
• Why not prioritize refining our communicative abilities?
• Why not improve our analytical and reporting skills?

If the response to these is affirmative, then it’s time to take action – implement, execute, adapt, observe, and provide feedback.

The Relentless Speed of Technological Progress

In the past, when mobile phones weren’t as popular and using applications on the go was rare, life seemed simpler. However, the emergence of mobile applications has revolutionized the concept of Software Testing.

Mobile Testing is a different ball game compared to traditional testing, and it’s necessary for us to adapt to it.

Our approach should be:

• We should consider evaluating additional scenarios.
• We should observe people’s mobile usage habits more thoroughly.
• We should strive to understand the ultimate objective of the product/application.

Again, if you concur, why hesitate? Let’s start implementing these changes right away.

Abundance of Tools, Yet a Scarcity of Creative Ideas

Automation tools are sought after, and there’s an unfortunate misconception that expertise in automation equals being a competent tester.

However, it is not so. A tool cannot replace the human intellect. While tools certainly simplify our tasks, they are, after all, human-made and need human effort for effective operation.

I’m not advocating the superiority of manual testing over automation or the other way around. The point is that testing cannot be effectively completed without creative ideas and hands-on effort. No tool can independently do the testing or offer precise reporting on the application/product’s behavior. Tools follow scripts, and interpreting the results generated by these tools remains our responsibility.

In today’s era, where an innumerable range of new tools and utilities is sprouting, and there is always a crunch of testing time, automation becomes a necessity, but it should be complemented with manual testing.

Our approach to this:

• Let’s resolve to learn something new every day and bring it to use.
• Let’s ideate and identify five fresh testing methods for the current application/product.
• Let’s research in-depth about which tools can boost our productivity.
• Let’s analyze the product more minutely and deliver more elaborate bug reports.

Certification

How many of you would concur with this viewpoint – one can explore and learn more if they’re devoid of examination pressure? A wealth of experience teaches us that chasing grades leads nowhere; rather, emphasis should be on genuinely understanding the subject.

(Sharing a lighter observation, my husband often mentions how I unintentionally mess up the salt quantities when inviting guests for dinner, because of the pressures of expectations. I’m sure we can all relate to experiencing similar pressures in various facets of life, where performance within a time limit is paramount. The dread of underperforming renders us so self-conscious that the learning and enjoyment in the process get overshadowed by obsession for the end result, which isn’t a healthy attitude to nurture).

I am not an adversary of certifications, but they may not fully represent your actual prowess. No test can genuinely gauge a person’s ability within a constrained timespan. When discussing Software Testing, it’s always about growth, which does not stop.

• You can’t come up with thousands of ideas in a day.
• You can’t master an automation tool within a few hours.
• You can’t pinpoint hundreds of bugs within the first week of testing.
• You can’t excel at communication with developers and customers right from the onset of your career.

But this is all about personal growth. As we gain experience, we learn, implement, refine our skills, and improve. We should learn from our past mistakes, document them, and when working on upcoming projects, make sure not to repeat these errors.

The Propensity to Cease Evolution Once a Position is Attained

Although it’s acceptable for a senior developer turned manager to quit coding, a true test manager must remain hands-on with testing. Ignoring these fundamental skills could spell trouble for your career. Regardless of years earned in the industry, maintain your sharpness by spending at least a few hours in testing.

This is how we can do it:

• Perform tests on real-time products.
• Suggest improvements to enhance the utility of the product.
• Perform market research to know why some products outshine others.
• Examine how different methods are deployed to execute ideas.

Wrapping Up

In the end, as repeatedly stated in this article, software testing is anchored in ideas. No tester can survive in this sector without being an efficient ideator. So, expose your mind to rigorous thinking. Associate your product with a real-time offering and gauge your testing methodology. This will lend a refreshing standpoint.

Also, never undermine the power of reporting and communication in your testing toolkit. Effective communication is pivotal for success in any sphere. Endeavor to enhance your reporting and communication skills by undergoing training and seeking continuous improvement.

About the author: Bhumika Mehta, a valuable STH team member and a seasoned software testing professional, has penned this comprehensive, thought-provoking, and revolutionary article. Possessing over 7 years of testing experience and currently serving as a project lead, she is passionate about examining every plausible element.

As usual, I’m eager to hear your thoughts…let’s spearhead this revolution collectively.

Best wishes for your testing ventures 🙂