Ask the Experts

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