Ask the Experts

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