There will always be some false assumptions attached to a good profession. That is how it usually works in the world, isn't it? We sometimes have all the wrong information about a particular subject, and some of us do not even try to clarify that. We go on in our lives spreading false information to other people. Today, we will break that cycle and discuss all software QA testing myths.
Software testing verifies and validates that the software is free from bugs or glitches, fulfills the technical requirements, and meets the customer expectations efficiently and effectively.
A QA tester's job is to identify bugs or check for any problem with the new software, such as mobile applications. QA developers run various software tests on the system to ensure all the requirements and guidelines are followed. They identify problems, run debugging programs, and produce reports when needed. Many companies use software testing outsourcing to reduce costs and headcount.
However, some myths surrounding this profession. In this blog, we will address such myths.
Myth 1: QA testing is an easy job
Reality: Just because it requires a negligible amount of coding skills, people assume this profession does not require going through difficult phases. However, the reality is quite different. QA Services can be very challenging and demanding. It requires the tester to effectively plan a test, create test cases, run regression tests, fix bugs, and more. The tester is expected to be analytical and problem-solving in nature.
Myth 2: Automation will replace QA Testers
Reality: Yes, this is an era of automation. However, motion testing will only partially replace QA Testers. Automation will only help manual testers automate their tests and simplify their daily tasks. Manual testers will always be required to check the software's look, feel, usability, and overall quality.
Myth 3: Testing means 100% bug-free software
Reality: Even Lifebuoy soap cannot remove 100% germs; here we talk about testers. A software tester will run all the tests to catch as many bugs or errors as possible. They aim to discover the bugs and ensure the product meets all the requirements and is functional. Even the best tester cannot provide a 100% bug-free product. Even with all the resources, all that can be done is reduce the bugs to a bare minimum.
Myth 4: The only testing team is responsible for maintaining quality
Reality: This myth has been in the market for ages. It is not the testing team's responsibility entirely. Quality is everyone's responsibility in the department. Developers must ensure that the quality of the code they write is up to the mark. Because quality is considered to be a development issue, not a testing issue.
Myth 5: Testing will lead to increased development costs
Reality: Some people assume that hiring QA testers and investing in various automation tools is an extra cost they tend to avoid. However, there are efficient ways to prevent such significant costs by just taking help from open source and free automation tools available in the market. Ultimately, companies prioritize quality over everything else and are willing to spend that extra money.
Myth 6: Developers code, QA Testers test
Reality: Yes, it is the responsibility of QA testers to identify a bug and rectify it. However, the developer should also perform various tests on their code to ensure its functionality and deliver high-quality software. Developments like unit tests and integration tests are often performed by developers to check how the software works independently and while integrated. Good developers find the defects in the code before deploying it to the QA tester.
Myth 7: There are fewer career opportunities for QA testers
Reality: Well, this myth could not be more wrong. Today, companies are taking extra measures to ensure the quality of their products. If the customer finds the application poorly working or lagging, it directly affects the company's reputation. So, QA testers are in as much demand as developers. QA testers earn higher salaries than developers if they have the relevant skills and experience.
What are the top skills required by a QA Tester?
Now that we have cleared up the myths following software testing let us discuss the essential skills required by the QA tester.
LeLet'sover the technical skills first…
- Programming- A QA tester needs little coding knowledge to better understand the application.
- Designing a test case - Testers are expected to have knowledge of the intent of a test case and the specificity level it demands.
- Security - Security must be a team-wide priority throughout application development and testing.
- Automation - Testers must learn automation to check browser consistency, performance, etc. It is essential in this era of growing technology to have automation skills.
- Reporting - A successful tester should be good at generating reports to provide clients with the exact status of the test project and program being evaluated.
Soft skills-
- Creative thinking
- Analytical skills
- Communication (verbal and written)
- Project management
- Problem-solving
- Team player
Final thoughts
There will be many myths and false assumptions surrounding Software testing in the coming times. But we need to be able to learn the difference between the myths and the actual reality behind them. We must make ourselves aware of the facts by doing the appropriate research. Software testing provides security to the system and focuses on satisfying the customer.
Regardless of the years of experience, testers should aspire to constantly learn, improve, and acquire new testing skills if necessary. Whether it is self-learning or training, testers will actively learn new methods, techniques, and processes to improve research efficiency, continue applying new skills, and learn to stay ahead of the competition.
You can also join some online training courses to clear your doubts. You can also enroll in one of the QA testing training courses if you are an aspiring QA Tester. This will help you learn and practice better.
Let us know in the comments section if we missed mentioning any central myth surrounding software QA Testing that matters to this blog reader.
