Testing Experts with Opinions

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.

Exploring the Software Testing Landscape in 2024 - Part2

In this insightful episode of Testing Experts with Opinions, we examine the shifting landscape of software testing roles and qualifications expected by 2024. We talk about the integration of automation into traditional roles, the increasing demand for quality engineers, and the rise of 'full-stack engineers'. We also venture into the fascinating realm of AI in testing, discuss various training paths for testers, and consider the future significance of manual testers.
Explore with us, the different facets of non-functional testing types and discover potential career avenues like observability testing and test data management. Learn why adaptability is key in this transformation and how platforms like Test Automation University and Udemy can aid in acquiring these new skills.
Our panel emphasises the growing importance of continuous learning in software testing. We highlight the shift from manual to automated testing and performance testing, and discuss the skills upgrade and mindset change necessary to tackle these evolutions in the field. We delve into the importance of exploratory and user experience testing and cover continuous testing — anticipated to be a major trend in 2024.
Fully immerse as we discuss the practices and concepts of continuous testing in both Waterfall and Agile models. We bring into focus UX testing, the user perspective in testing, and the need for expansive test coverage. We also consider the prominence of IoT in the current testing landscape, and debate over the relative emphasis given to desktop and mobile testing by organisations. Listen, as we round off this episode with a focus on striking a balance between methodologies, available tools, and project-specific needs.

Exploring the Software Testing Landscape in 2024 - Part 1

Welcome to the very first episode of the Testing Experts with Opinions podcast for 2024 (Part 1) - a dynamic platform for engaging discussions about software testing trends, tools, and technology. This episode highlights a detailed introduction of the Inspired Testing team members and their significant roles, including test architects Stephan Coetzee and Mamatla Rantidi, data testing specialist Mathew Zungu, training-focused head of consulting Jehan Coetzee, and CTO Leon Lodewyks.
Emphasizing the ever-changing software testing landscape, Leon highlights the importance of incorporating new tools and technologies to provide better value to clients. He stresses the need to maintain relevance in the industry through continuous training significantly.
This episode lays particular emphasis on software quality engineering trends for 2024. Stephan leads an intriguing discussion about the role of AI in testing. Explaining AI as a tool that enhances the testing process, he emphasizes that AI aims to address real business challenges, from improving operational efficiency to enhancing accuracy. The team also shares practical advice for testers surrounding AI selection and usage, stressing the need to identify business needs before adopting any AI tool.
While discussing the use of AI, potential concerns about AI learning with private data are brought up. Companies are advised to create an in-house bot to retain control over their sensitive data. The debut episode wraps up with a look into the future, predicting that 2024 will see an increase in API testing due to the growing adoption of microservices architecture and AI integrated applications.
This episode offers a comprehensive analysis and speculative overview of software testing's future - challenging traditional thoughts of API testing and ushering in an era where AI plays an integral role.

Anusha Gopaul’s journey in becoming a software quality engineer

Inspired Testing's Training Manager Louise Gilbert chats to Senior Automation Engineer Anusha Gopaul about her journey into quality and how she works to help other testers reach their full potential.

An expert’s opinion on choosing a test automation tool

Expert duo Jehan Coetzee, Head of Consulting and Architecture, and Dawie Greyling, Principal Consultant at Inspired testing discuss how to choose the right test automation tools, sharing valuable insights and tips along the way.