Ask the Experts

Ask the Experts

• How to elicit performance requirements

  Eliciting performance requirements from business end users necessitates a clearly defined scope and the right set of questions. Expert Mary Gorman explains how to effectively gather information.  Continue Reading

• How to write a business requirements document in Agile

  Agile doesn't rely on lengthy documentation or a control board, but it does need business requirements. Here's how to work business requirements into epics and user stories.  Continue Reading

• What are the types of requirements in software engineering?

  Requirements fall into three categories: business, user and software. See examples of each one, as well as what constitutes functional and nonfunctional kinds of software requirements.  Continue Reading

• Why is unit testing important for developers?

  Through unit testing, software developers know source code works at the atomic level. Read why unit testing is important and valuable, as well as how it can ease the debugging process.  Continue Reading

• Regression testing vs. UAT: Goals and techniques

  Regression tests and UAT ensure software quality and both require a sizeable investment. Learn when and how to perform each one, and some tips to get the most out of your effort.  Continue Reading

• Functional vs. nonfunctional requirements in software engineering

  Learn the meaning of functional vs. nonfunctional requirements in software engineering, with helpful examples. Then, see how to write both and build a product that users will love.  Continue Reading

• Software performance testing requirements and prerequisites

  Just because software passes functional tests doesn't mean it works. Dig into stress, load, endurance and other performance tests, and their prerequisites and requirements.  Continue Reading

• Improve ROI in software testing with adaptability, automation

  QA needs to reiterate its value to the business side of the organization. Use this tried-and-true advice to leverage documentation and automation to make everyone happy.  Continue Reading

• Know when to choose automated vs. manual testing

  Vendors have inched toward automated application testing for a long time, yet there is still room for growth. Software tester Amy Reichert offers her insights.  Continue Reading

• Can we fully automate our software testing?

  Your boss has jumped on the bandwagon to automate software testing. Don't despair. Software testing expert Matt Heusser walks through what to say -- and do -- to keep everyone happy.  Continue Reading

• What is the difference between SIT and UAT?

  User acceptance testing and system integration testing differ in one key way: the person who does the testing. Learn when to apply UAT vs. SIT.  Continue Reading

• What goes into a user story vs. use case for Agile development?

  Developers refer to software requirements to code a good product, but there are different ways to categorize user needs. What's the difference between a user story vs. a use case?  Continue Reading

• What's the difference between API and web services testing?

  Web services and APIs aren't the same -- or are they? How do web services and API testing differ, and what does each type of test aim to achieve?  Continue Reading

• What are some bad coding practices to avoid?

  Application development projects aren't meeting expectations, and developers are not sure why. What are some common bad coding practices that developers follow but should avoid?  Continue Reading

• Which programming practices alleviate code redundancy?

  WET code leaves apps bogged down. Learn how to reduce the challenges brought on by code redundancy by programming based on the DRY principle.  Continue Reading

• What coding standards in software engineering should we follow?

  Every team has its own ideas about coding practices. What types of code standards should our team embrace to produce quality work as we develop applications?  Continue Reading

• How do I foster reusable code across dev projects?

  Developers don't have a lot of free time. Code reuse helps dev teams focus on the most valuable aspects of a project. So ensure your team knows how to write, and test, reusable code.  Continue Reading

• How to meet QA responsibilities during a software tester shortage

  An organization facing a dire shortage of QA engineers can't just dump these tasks on developers. Here's how to keep up software quality with limited QA resources.  Continue Reading

• How do I know what's test automation vs. automated testing?

  A script-based tool has replaced a daily testing exercise on some code. Is it simply an automated test, part of a test automation strategy or even DevOps-enabled continuous testing?  Continue Reading

• Quality assurance testing vs. user acceptance testing

  There are differences between QA and UAT, but testers from both sides ought to collaborate and firm up test plans to resolve issues.  Continue Reading

• Which code quality metrics should devs track?

  Developers and testers strive to create quality, reusable code to deploy apps faster and keeps users happy. But what metrics should they track to evaluate code quality?  Continue Reading

• How can I course-correct my testing career path?

  Don't get stuck in QA monotony. Show your technical knowhow and expand your horizons to boost your career -- even if it means throwing out the map.  Continue Reading

• What makes for a quiet developer work environment on the road?

  Developers run into distractions when they work out of a hotel or Airbnb. Here's how to fight back against subpar accommodations that halt productivity -- and how to avoid them next time.  Continue Reading

• What are the top software testing methodologies?

  Whether you want to discover new software testing methodologies or rejuvenate test cases, QA is all about efficiency. Evaluate these testing techniques and strategies to meet QA goals.  Continue Reading

• How do I find my career path in software testing?

  I've been a tester for many years and want to progress professionally. Yet, I'm struggling to find chances for advancement and a career path in software testing. Any pointers?  Continue Reading

• Which DevOps testing tools do I need to know?

  There are numerous DevOps tools, so as a tester, is it necessary to know all of them? Gerie Owen explains why tools might come secondary to the goal of DevOps.  Continue Reading

• How can learning scripting languages help junior testers?

  As a junior tester, I think learning scripting languages could make me more valuable to my team and enhance my career. But how do I pick the scripting language to learn?  Continue Reading

• Don't fear chaos engineering if you are a DevOps tester

  DevOps teams use chaos engineering, but at what cost? Learn how this testing method secures applications in ways that traditional testing can't.  Continue Reading

• How can I attend software testing conferences?

  You want to attend a software testing conference, but your employer said it's too expensive. Here are some ways to improve your chances to attend.  Continue Reading

• Automated security testing frees devs to prevent breaches

  Common software security mistakes include testing at the last minute and not testing open source code and VMs. Expert Matt Heusser suggests ways to avoid these and other missteps.  Continue Reading

• What are the QA risks in automated software release management?

  Beware the QA threats of software release management automation, warns Brian Kirsch. Application release automation enables fast deployment, but be sure to catch bugs first.  Continue Reading

• How is startup culture different from a proven company?

  Expert Gerie Owen discusses the differences between a startup culture and an established company's work environment. Learn more about which would work best for you.  Continue Reading

• Is a software test schedule at the development team's mercy?

  Does the development team determine the software test schedule? Find out why working with DevOps can alleviate some time and test constraints.  Continue Reading

• What skills do Agile testers need?

  The Agile team collaborates closely and makes a lot of changes. What does the ideal Agile tester possess in technical and people skills?  Continue Reading

• What is the best way to load test mobile applications?

  Mobile apps create a challenge for testers; no approach can cover every device. However, there are best practices for load testing mobile applications.  Continue Reading

• What does it mean to test APIs?

  Expert Gerie Owen explains what it means to test APIs and why it is important to ensure that applications are working at peak performance level.  Continue Reading

• How do I understand runtime environments?

  Whether it's C, Java or Adobe, it's important to understand the differences among runtime environments. Expert Stephen J. Bigelow outlines the various choices.  Continue Reading

• What software testing skills are important for a beginner?

  Software testers need more than technical skills. Expert Gerie Owen explains why this career choice requires an inquisitive mind and an ability to work well with others.  Continue Reading

• What do I need to know about machine learning testing?

  Software testers now need to add machine learning to their repertoire of skills. Expert Gerie Owen explains why this is coming to your workplace soon and how you can be ready.  Continue Reading

• What are the pros and cons of contract QA jobs?

  Contract QA jobs can pay more than staff positions, but only if you're a good negotiator. Expert Amy Reichert helps explain the differences between staff QA and contractors.  Continue Reading

• Here's everything you need to know about testing blockchain

  A blockchain is an encrypted list of records anyone can add to. But should you be worried about testing blockchain? Expert Gerie Owen explains what you need to know.  Continue Reading

• Should the QA process always include the business side?

  Quality assurance professionals need to start thinking about bringing business along for the ride. Expert Amy Reichert offers tried-and-true advice to get started.  Continue Reading

• How to better manage your offshore software testing team

  Managing a local software testing team is one thing, but when testers are remote, it's challenging. Expert Gerie Owen unpacks her top tips to make the process smoother.  Continue Reading

• How to hang on to software testing standards during hard times

  Software testing is a tough job, and it's made even tougher in a regulated industry where competitive pressures don't exist. Expert Gerie Owen on how to survive.  Continue Reading

• Will automated software testing eliminate my job soon?

  With more companies moving to DevOps the push for automating software testing is strong. Expert Gerie Owen explains how to navigate this career challenge.  Continue Reading

• How can a female junior software tester survive in a sexist startup?

  Software testers are no more immune to hostile work environments than anyone else. Expert Gerie Owen explains how to survive in a challenging startup.  Continue Reading

• How do I advance my test automation engineer career?

  Usually, software testers with strong technical skills have bright career prospects. If you're being overlooked, there's a reason. Expert Gerie Owen explains.  Continue Reading

• How do I tackle machine learning in software testing?

  Machine learning is the next big thing, and software testers are just now being asked to tackle this new type of software. Expert Gerie Owen offers on-point advice.  Continue Reading

• What are the top software testing skills? Start by being fearless

  The software testing profession is changing rapidly, thanks to DevOps and automation. But some of the skills you'll need to keep up are surprisingly old-fashioned, like persistence.  Continue Reading

• Struggling with testing? Here's how to get lean QA started

  Trying to identify bottlenecks in the software testing process can be challenging, but starting a lean QA effort can help. Expert Amy Reichert explains.  Continue Reading

• Smoke tests are fine, but sometimes soak testing is the answer

  Some software applications can really benefit from a long testing time, and that's where soak tests come in. Expert Gerie Owen explains how and why to use that type of test.  Continue Reading

• What happens when acceptance criteria in software testing is missing?

  You can't test something if you don't know what it's supposed to do. Often, testers have a very incomplete understanding of what they're testing. Here's how to fix the problem.  Continue Reading

• What's the latest DevOps challenge? A tendency toward groupthink

  In order to speed up development and delivery, a DevOps team has to be collaborative. But when does that cross the line into dysfunctional? Expert Gerie Owen explains.  Continue Reading

• Why am I always being passed over for software test lead jobs?

  It can be frustrating and demoralizing when you're not chosen to test the latest and most interesting software. Expert Gerie Owen shares what to do about it.  Continue Reading

• How can QA best work with contract software developers?

  At some point, software testers are going to end up working with remote or contract developers. Expert Amy Reichert explains how to make the arrangement work for you.  Continue Reading

• I have a typical manual tester resume. Can I find a job in DevOps?

  It's all automation all the time in the DevOps world. So what does that mean for manual testers? Expert Gerie Owen suggests what testing skills to highlight.  Continue Reading

• How can you ace ISTQB exam preparation? Organize the studying

  It's a big test, but if you break it down into smaller bits -- and study with a group -- it's much easier. Expert Amy Reichert explains prepping for the ASTQB/ISTQB exam.  Continue Reading

• I'm a software tester -- where can I find a primer on DevOps basics?

  Software testing plays an important role in DevOps, but it can be tough to decipher it all. Expert Gerie Owen offers her best advice to discover your role in a DevOps world.  Continue Reading

• I'm in a rut! How can I find a stable software testing career path?

  You want to move your testing career forward, but your employer isn't helping. Expert Gerie Owen offers advice about taking charge of your career development.  Continue Reading

• How to kick-start your ASTQB and ISTQB exam preparation

  If this is the year to build your software testing career, the ASTQB and ISTBQ certification tests might be a good idea. Expert Amy Reichert explains how to start preparing.  Continue Reading

• Is it time to look for new software testing job opportunities?

  If you spend your days being bored or frustrated, it might be time to change jobs. Expert tester Amy Reichert explains the warnings signs of a dead-end testing job.  Continue Reading

• How do we make testing in DevOps happen correctly?

  CI/CD are at the heart of DevOps and it can be tricky to determine when/how to fit in testing. Expert Gerie Owen explains why testers are facing a steep learning curve.  Continue Reading

• How far should a software testing role extend? Further than you think

  It's a rapidly evolving world for software testers today, so the onus is on them to be open to new experiences. Expert Gerie Owen explains why testers need to own it all.  Continue Reading

• Why won't companies invest in software testing resources?

  Software testing is hard enough, but without adequate and appropriate equipment, it's unrealistic to expect accurate results. Expert Amy Reichert explains why QA needs more support.  Continue Reading

• Why do I need to understand Docker and other containers?

  It's a stressful world for testers today, so anything that makes life easier should be embraced. Expert Gerie Owen explains why testers need to understand and embrace Docker.  Continue Reading

• How can I use cause-effect graphing in my Agile testing process?

  Sometimes you just need something simple to make life easier. Expert Amy Reichert explains how cause-effect graphing can help speed up the Agile testing process.  Continue Reading

• How to time and streamline software test planning

  No one likes creating test time estimates, but they are helpful for the QA team. Expert Amy Reichert shares the right questions to ask to make planning easier.  Continue Reading

• Why bias is among the data science problems

  The demand for data scientists is huge. But the risks of bad, biased data are also huge. Data scientist Cathy O'Neil makes the case for creating a more ethical data scientist.  Continue Reading

• Should software tester training include finance?

  How much do you need to understand about the product and industry you're testing in? Expert Gerie Owen thinks the answer is probably more than you'd think.  Continue Reading

• What is the most important software testing skill I can learn?

  It's tempting to think that the best testers are those with lots of technical experience. But, according to expert Gerie Owen, technology can only take you so far.  Continue Reading

• How can I negotiate for a better QA salary?

  It's not all about the paycheck, but salary is important. Expert Amy Reichert offers firsthand advice to help you negotiate the salary of your dreams. Her secret? Always bargain.  Continue Reading

• How do I know if my busy QA professionals are actually engaged?

  A busy tester seems like a happy tester, but expert Amy Reichert warns that appearances can be deceiving. Here's why you need to be sure your testers are really paying attention.  Continue Reading

• How should I handle root cause analysis in software testing?

  It's important to take finding the root cause of a defect seriously in an Agile team using continuous improvement. Expert Amy Reichert explains how she narrows it down.  Continue Reading

• The Agile testing process -- why do I keep repeating myself?

  It's just not Agile to repeat a test process over and over again. But it's a common problem. Expert Amy Reichert explains why the Agile test process might need a serious re-think.  Continue Reading

• Need to know: Is demand for software QA jobs increasing?

  Demand for software QA experts is high and seems to be growing. Expert Amy Reichert explains why now is a great time to polish all of your testing skills.  Continue Reading

• A complete beginner's guide to DevOps best practices

  You can't just 'do' DevOps and hope to get it right. Expert Matthew Heusser takes us through all the steps required to make DevOps work for your company -- and make your life easier.  Continue Reading

• Which software testing training route is the best to take?

  Finally there are funds available for training, but where should software testers invest? Expert tester Gerie Owen offers her advice on getting the most out of the opportunity.  Continue Reading

• Are you on the right quality assurance career path?

  When you're a QA tester, there are several career paths open to you. Expert and tester Amy Reichert offers her advice on making the smartest choices.  Continue Reading

• Software testing jobs for freshers -- too good to be true?

  Software testers just can't get respect, especially if they're fresh out of college and working at a startup. Testing expert Gerie Owen offers career-saving advice.  Continue Reading

• How can a work breakdown structure help me with requirements?

  Using a WBS can help make a big task like requirements easier. Expert Robin Goldsmith explains how developers and testers can make the most of this process.  Continue Reading

• My Agile test plan isn't working. How can I make it better?

  A test plan is a key Agile component. Too bad they don't work. Expert Amy Reichert explains why you should implement a flexible Agile test strategy instead.  Continue Reading

• How do I begin the DevOps process at my company?

  Your boss wants you to 'do DevOps.' Expert Matthew Heusser offers time-tested advice for getting started down the DevOps process. Get ready for a lot of experiments.  Continue Reading

• How can I improve test case prioritization and planning?

  Want to be a more effective tester? Expert Amy Reichert explains how to plan, prioritize and document regression testing once, so you're better prepared for the tests to come.  Continue Reading

• How can I share an Agile test result with my customers?

  It's increasingly common to want to share Agile test results with internal or external customers. Expert Amy Reichert walks you through the options.  Continue Reading

• First time REST testing? It's easier than you think

  It can be challenging to test something new for the first time. Expert Gerie Owen explains why you do not need to worry about REST API testing.  Continue Reading

• What software testing skills should newbies know?

  Software testing requires a number of different skills, but for newbies, the lingo and the skills can be intimidating. Expert Gerie Owen has wise words for those getting started.  Continue Reading

• When resume padding hides true software tester skills

  What do you do when that job candidate is a little too perfect? Resume padding is on the rise, unfortunately. Here's what expert Matt Heusser offers as a solution.  Continue Reading

• What are the most important security testing basics?

  Knowing how to test for security flaws is vital, but it's a complicated and changing field. Expert Kevin Beaver offers security testing basics.  Continue Reading

• Looking for case management tools? Get our expert's advice

  How do you determine which test case management tools are the best fit for your organization? Expert Gerie Owen explains why you should start by limiting your search.  Continue Reading

• What do QA lead responsibilities entail? The list is long

  Taking on the role of a QA lead for the first time can be daunting. How does it differ from other roles? What does the job entail? Expert Gerie Owen has the answers.  Continue Reading

• Testing microservices? The secret is in the details

  Microservices are the hot new thing, so testers need to get ready. Expert Tim Western explains why you'll need to problem solve -- and relax. You've got this.  Continue Reading

• What advice can I give as a software testing mentor?

  Both young and experienced testers should be adaptable, but what else do young testers need to know? Gerie Owen offers tips on how veterans can lead by example.  Continue Reading

• What is the DevOps role for operations people?

  In a DevOps world, it can be hard to know where Dev ends and Ops starts. Expert Tim Western explains what the various DevOps roles can and should be.  Continue Reading

• What strategies are there for moving from Waterfall to Agile?

  It can be hard to showcase or even develop Agile skills when Waterfall is strongly embedded into your company. Expert Gerie Owen offers advice to help change that.  Continue Reading

• My manager wants quality as a KPI measurement -- help!

  So, your boss wants quality as a KPI measurement. You could quit or make something up, but expert Matt Heusser has a better idea.  Continue Reading

• Using risk analysis for regressive testing planning

  IT professionals want their app to be of high quality. Regressive testing is a way to measure that, but won't evaluate everything. What to do? Amy Reichert has an answer.  Continue Reading

• What usability testing methods can help me get started?

  Usability testing is about solving existing issues on a given interface, but how do you detect those problems? Expert Matt Heusser offers his insights.  Continue Reading

• Brand new to software QA testing? Here's how to get started

  It's true -- some companies still don't test their software. But of course they should. Here's what to do in a company that's brand new to software QA testing.  Continue Reading

• Can I find content marketing tools in a CMS?

  Too many moving parts? No worries, expert Amy Reichert explains options for new content marketing tools in CMS.  Continue Reading

• How can I move from a Waterfall approach and learn Agile?

  It's tough to be the lone Agile supporter in a world of Waterfall enthusiasts. Expert Gerie Owen offers advice on moving from Waterfall to Agile.  Continue Reading