QA Testing is rewarding… yet often dull*!

QA Testing is rewarding? That makes sense. QA testing can be dull, though? This coming from a software testing company?? QA testing can indeed be repetitive and dull. Yet it can also be extremely rewarding, if engagement levels are high. Today we look at how you can achieve this.

QA Testing is a challenging profession

Testers must constantly learn new technologies and the inner workings of backend systems. They usually have to plan and execute tests on a tight deadline, too. An ever-changing role it may be, but it can still become monotonous. QA testing is at its most productive when testers are engaged. Work engagement is created by providing new opportunities to learn and by rotating repetitive tasks. The opportunity for job growth for all team members is another factor to consider.

QA testers are rarely productive when executing the same exact tests or tasks day after day, release after release. When this occurs, QA testing becomes dull and stagnant. Over time, fewer defects are found, and regression tests are not precisely executed. Why? Boredom. Most workers, regardless of occupation, fail to do their best work when they feel bored and unchallenged.

Top Tip – Build a strong QA team

This can be achieved by defining work assignments clearly. You should rotate tasks to allow for growth in all team members. Whilst you must define work assignments, do not ‘set them in stone’. Teams need to be well-managed in order to stay productive and healthy. Part of managing a team is providing known work assignments, so team members understand what is expected of them. This allows them to perform tasks with positive momentum. It also ensures less frustration and confusion over what to work on and when. Frustration and chaos impacts upon team focus and productivity.

Define each team member’s work assignments for a given period of time. For example, a period of time may be a month, or it may be a release. Allow team members to rotate tasks, either on an established schedule or as their skills allow. Provide learning opportunities across the team, such as varying those responsible for different types of tests. Even switching the test suites to be executed provides variety. Consider mixing in some new test case development as well. Perhaps allow them to automate a particular set of application functions, or test a new feature that fits their skill level.

Avoid QA stagnation

QA stagnation can set in when the need for training is ignored. Learning how to work with a new development team or understanding a new part of an application are essential. Training engages testers and makes them more effective.

It is important to have team members who are engaged in their duties. Invest in your QA team’s growth and over time you will build a strong, engaged team.

Conclusion

QA testers stay engaged when they know their work assignments. Give them a reasonable schedule and job growth opportunities. If you have a combined QA team, growth opportunities need to be available to all team members regardless of location. Treat the team as a whole and make each member responsible for testing outcomes equally. New opportunities are therefore evenly distributed. QA Testing is rewarding, of that there can be no doubt.

*Editors’ note: This is a somewhat tongue-in-cheek statement. As testers ourselves, we could never tire of the process. When we discover and fix hidden defects, the rewards are massive. Here is Niranjan Limbachiya’s view on the subject as taken from an interesting article on LinkedIn. To engage with our software testing experts, contact us today.