Testing Experts with Opinions

Testing 2034: AI, Ethics and Beyond

Welcome to this episode of "Testing Experts with Opinions," where we delve into the speculative future of software testing over the next decade and beyond. This week, we're taking a creative approach, asking our experts to explore what the world of testing might look like in 10 to 15 years.
Join us as Jéhan and Steve employ their AI tools of choice to conjure up imaginative scenarios of testing's evolution. From conscious AI testers to testing in interplanetary environments, we explore 10 bold predictions that challenge the boundaries of what we know.
As we navigate through these intriguing possibilities, we also ponder the shifting skill sets required for testers in this rapidly changing landscape. Will testers of the future resemble those of today, or will they need to adapt in unprecedented ways?
Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that blends fun with futuristic insights, urging testers to rethink their roles and prepare for the exciting challenges ahead.

Part 3: The Role of QA in a Typical Scrum Team

In this episode of Testing Experts with Opinions, we discuss the final three stages of a Scrum process: sprint demos and retrospectives, deploying completed work, and project closure. - Who should lead sprint demos? - How can we ensure effective lessons learned sessions? - And what role do testers play in post-deployment handovers?
We also explore the importance of creating a culture where quality is everyone's responsibility. Whether you're a tester, developer, or product owner, this episode is packed with insights to improve your Scrum practices and enhance your team's collaboration.
Don't miss out on this comprehensive discussion that ties together the critical aspects of testing in a Scrum environment. If you haven't already, be sure to check out the first two episodes for a complete understanding of AQA's role from project initiation to closure.
#AgileTesting #ScrumMethodology #SprintDemos #SoftwareTesting #QA #QualityAssurance #TeamCollaboration #ContinuousImprovement #TestingInScrum #PodcastSeries #SoftwareDevelopment

Part 2: The Role of QA in a Typical Scrum Team

In this episode of Testing Experts with Opinions, we delve into the pivotal role of QA within a Scrum team. Continuing from Part 1, we explore in-sprint activities such as test planning, backlog grooming, pair testing, and defect management.
Our experts discuss the importance of integrating QA into every step of the Scrum process to improve communication, collaboration, and overall product quality.
Key insights include the benefits of paired testing, managing technical debt, and strategies for effective defect handling. Listen in to learn how to enhance your agile testing practices and achieve higher-quality software delivery.
 
Why Listen?
Gain actionable insights into effective QA practices within Scrum teams. Understand how to integrate testing seamlessly, manage defects, and improve product quality through collaboration and strategic planning.
#SoftwareTesting #QA #Scrum #AgileTesting #TechPodcast #DefectManagement #PairTesting #QualityAssurance #InSprintActivities #TestAutomation #AgileQA #TestingExperts

Part 1: The Role of QA in a Typical Scrum Team

In this episode, our experts dive into the role of QA within a Scrum team, discussing internal infographics and diagrams on best practices.
We explore the importance of a test plan, how to integrate QA tasks within Agile frameworks, and the challenges of ensuring stable test environments. Our panel debates the implications of separating development and testing activities across sprints, considering the impact on team collaboration and project velocity.
Join us as we dissect practical solutions for aligning QA efforts with Agile principles, ensuring that both development and testing teams can work harmoniously towards delivering high-quality software.

Unlocking the Importance of Accessibility Testing

Welcome to this episode of Testing Experts with Opinions, where our hosts delve into the crucial topic of accessibility testing in the software industry. This often-overlooked aspect of testing is becoming increasingly important due to rising regulations in the UK and US, as well as the need to create inclusive digital experiences.
Our experts discuss the fundamental differences between accessibility and usability testing, highlighting the importance of making websites and applications accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities. They explore the legal frameworks such as ADA Section 508 and WCAG guidelines, and share insights on when and why accessibility testing is critical for different types of companies.
The conversation covers practical steps for getting started with accessibility testing, from using built-in tools in Microsoft products and web browsers to more advanced methods involving actual users with disabilities. The episode emphasizes the necessity of incorporating accessibility testing into the development lifecycle and the benefits of doing so, both from a legal and business perspective.
Tune in to learn how to make your digital products more accessible and ensure a better user experience for all. Don't forget to reach out with any topics you'd like us to discuss in future episodes!

The Value of Testing: Measuring Impact and Justifying Investment

Welcome to Testing Experts with Opinions, an inspired testing podcast aimed at creating conversations about trends, tools, and technology in the software testing space. In this episode, we delve into the value of testing and how to quantify it. We discuss various mechanisms to measure testing effectiveness, such as production defect counts and cost implications, and explore the immeasurable benefits testing brings to an organization.Our experts debate the role of testers versus the testing function, the significance of a testing mindset, and how testing impacts different domains, from financial systems to life-critical applications. We also touch on the challenges of justifying the need for more testing resources and the importance of presenting actionable metrics to stakeholders. Join us as we uncover the complexities and intrinsic value of software testing in ensuring quality and mitigating risk.

ISTQB Certification - Do you really NEED it?

Welcome to another episode of Testing Experts with Opinions, your go-to podcast for conversations about trends, tools, and technology in the software testing space. In this episode, we dive into a topic that often sparks debate: the ISTQB certification.
Our panel of experts discusses the merits and drawbacks of obtaining an ISTQB certification, particularly at the foundation level. Is it just a theoretical exercise, or does it offer real-world value? We explore how the certification can be beneficial for newcomers and seasoned professionals alike, while also considering its impact on career advancement and the recruitment process.
We also touch on the broader implications for the industry, including whether there should be more accessible, high-quality testing education available to everyone, regardless of their financial situation. Our experts share their personal experiences and insights, making a case for why having a standardized certification like ISTQB can be a valuable asset in the software testing community.
Tune in to hear their thoughts and join the conversation on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok. Let's explore the evolving landscape of software testing together!

Embracing the Power of Mentorship in Software Testing

Welcome to the sixth episode of Testing Experts with Opinions with the spotlight on the profound significance of mentorship in software testing. Packed with captivating insights and anecdotes, our expert panel underscores the distinction between mentoring and having a 'buddy', along with exploring the interactive nature of mentoring relationships.
With the panel's credible experiences as mentors and mentees, the episode underscores the benefits of mentorship at scale and utilizing collaborative platforms like SharePoint and Confluence. It also emphasizes the value of personal feedback and support from a mentor for long-term motivation and growth.
As the discourse evolves, it delves into the dynamics of mentorship amidst evolving workplace norms. From finding mentors in smaller businesses or remote working scenarios, to the implications of automated tools like ChatGPT on mentorship, this episode decodes it all. It wraps up with the inspiring reminder that everyone around us holds potential lessons to learn from.
The episode offers invaluable insights whether you're initiating your journey in software testing or scaling up the leadership ladder. Listen in to explore how mentorship could possibly be your key to unlocking professional success.

What is Software Test Maturity and Why Does it Matter?

In the fourth episode of our Testing Experts series, our panel offers a comprehensive exploration of a critical concept in software testing, test maturity. Joined by a new panel member and esteemed consultant, Mr. Stephen Platten, we delve into the various facets of test maturity, highlighting its crucial role in determining an organisation's proficiency in the testing arena. Our discussions touch on the importance of test maturity assessments and how they unveil processes that can be performed with increased efficiency and effectiveness.
The episode broadens the scope extending to models for understanding test maturity like Test Maturity Model integration (TMMI) and Test Process Improvement (TPI). While these established models provide a straightforward path to achieve enhanced maturity, their rigidity can pose challenges for startups and smaller firms. The conversation also unfurls the notion of informal maturity checks that facilitate instant advantageous changes, bypassing formal levels. Our panel advises organisations to start from the ground level, embodying the concept that maturity is a progressive long-term journey, rather than a race with an end goal.
Our panel assert the significance of cultivating a quality assurance (QA) function at a gradual pace, underlining the importance of starting with a minimum viable product and strategically building on it. The discussion delves into the application of hybrid models like the Test Process Improvement NEXT (TPI Next) Model that amalgamates industry best practices with individual judgment and experience. As we conclude, our panel brings to the fore the importance of transparency in the maturity process to maintain synchronisation across the business, thereby minimising clashes and redundancy.
This episode enriches your understanding of software development's strategic nuances, with a special emphasis on testing and assessments. The insights garnered from our panel's extensive experience in the field will enable you to better comprehend varying models suitable for organisations of different types and sizes, emphasise quality control in the software development lifecycle, and spotlight the addition of continuous improvement to keep your processes optimised and effective.

Is there still a need for Software Test Managers in 2024?

Welcome to another installment of the "Testing Experts with Opinions" podcast! This episode dives deep into the evolving role of Test Managers in modern software development, specifically in Agile and Waterfall methodologies.
The conversation begins with a discussion around the traditional role of Test Managers in software development structured under Waterfall models. The panel then transitions into examining the changing responsibilities of these individuals in the Agile context, where they often operate as Test Leads or Heads of Quality.
Challenging convention, the speakers explore the diminishing need for the traditional Test Manager role in Agile environments, where responsibilities like budgeting, team management, and defect handling are often shared among project managers and or scrum masters. Instead, the conversation leads to a consensus around the importance of having an individual to coordinate and guide activities across different testing types and levels.
The episode wraps up with a forward-thinking perspective, suggesting some Test Managers may adapt into 'program level' roles, acting as Agile problem-solvers while demonstrating flexibility in a transforming test environment.
Immerse yourself in our invigorating discussion as we unpack the changing landscape of software testing, present solutions to enhance testing effectiveness, and anticipate the next steps for Test Managers in the Agile world.