Problem solve
Get help with specific problems with your technologies, process and projects.
Problem solve
Get help with specific problems with your technologies, process and projects.
Checklist for mobile app testing: 15 gaps to look for
Makers of iOS and Android apps chronically fail to test these 15 aspects of mobile apps. But to release quality mobile software, development teams must start testing -- here's how. Continue Reading
Waterfall or Agile? Predictive vs. adaptive SDLC explained
Waterfall and Agile epitomize the differences between predictive and adaptive SDLCs. Here are some considerations that a dev team should know before it chooses a methodology. 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
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4 innovations in software development and testing to watch
These methods and technologies change the way developers and testers do their jobs -- or even what their duties are. Explore innovations related to AI, the flow of work and more. 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
How to approach Agile team organization
Should an Agile team have an architect? Does cross-functional mean constantly changing? How do teams set velocity and quality? Get the answers to set up and lead Agile teams.Continue Reading
How to calculate project completion times
Good project managers deliver on schedule, despite the challenges they encounter. Become a time and resource management pro and deliver on the expected completion date.Continue Reading
How to prevent accidental complexity in software development
Software products contain both essential and accidental complexity. To fight accidental complexity, avoid overambitious designs, coding flaws and other common problem areas.Continue Reading
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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
How to test mobile applications using a game emulator
We could all use a little wiggle room in software testing budgets. Sometimes you've got to be creative to find it. Learn how a video game emulator can test mobile apps.Continue Reading
Fix spaghetti code and other pasta-theory antipatterns
Developers must try to write maintainable, reusable code. That's easier said than done. Learn about programming antipatterns espoused in the pasta theory, and don't forget a napkin.Continue Reading
Why flaky tests are a problem you can't ignore
Monotonous as the task might be, QA must detect and fix the root causes of flaky tests. Invest the time and effort, or risk the dangers of an unreliable test automation suite.Continue Reading
How developers focus despite open offices, concurrent projects
What do shared meeting calendars, pink sombreros and home offices have in common? They're all ways to combat distractions and let programmers focus on productive coding.Continue Reading
Deal with remote software testing challenges
Is your software QA team new to remote work? Learn what technical, process and culture challenges you will encounter, and how to surpass them to ensure quality.Continue Reading
Reduce these forms of AI bias from devs and testers
Watch out for cognitive biases in every development and testing decision -- especially AI biases that affect software users. Here are the ways to address common issues.Continue Reading
How do software developers and architects work together?
Work is more fun when developers and architects have a relationship that is collaborative, not adversarial or absentee. Here's how real teams join forces to build quality software.Continue Reading
Why projects fail in the citizen developer model
It's easy for citizen developers to start a software project, but difficult to augment or maintain it. Watch out for these four issues that ruin most no-code projects.Continue Reading
Real-world developers' low-code examples focus on productivity
Two enterprise IT organizations share the benefits their dev teams gained from different low-code platforms, the process issues the tools exposed and how teams can get started.Continue Reading
How to patch your open source software vulnerabilities
No matter how big your software vulnerabilities backlog has grown, here's how you can tackle it, and get on the path to continuous security monitoring.Continue Reading
Use intrusive testing to push software to, and past, its limits
Grab your sledgehammer and get to work with destructive software testing. Here's how to use these intrusive methods to identify points of failure before software reaches users.Continue Reading
DevOps in the enterprise requires focus on security, visibility
App dev, quality and delivery challenges constantly pop up in DevOps implementations. Hear how overworked IT professionals deal with these challenges, and how tools can help -- or not.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
10 tips for effective change management in Agile
Agile development encourages product owners to address customer needs through change. Follow these 10 tips for change requests and management practices that keep projects on track.Continue Reading
A DevOps pipeline works only when the tooling works
A DevOps toolchain needs to help IT people do their job, sure. But to do that, it also needs to provide useful glimpses into the process so that everyone is in the loop.Continue Reading
Build a DevOps toolchain that's efficient and effective
Is it possible to create a DevOps toolchain that meets the needs of developers, IT operations teams and business staffers? Here's how to devise a strategy.Continue Reading
Implement a DevSecOps pipeline to boost releases' security posture
Break security out of its silo, and get the whole team on board to create a culture of quality with the right tools at the right time -- and stop blindly rushing to release.Continue Reading
How to prevent lingering software quality issues
Coders can learn a lot from manufacturers, according to Gary Gruver, even though the products are distinctly different. This free chapter excerpt covers how to approach QA issues.Continue Reading
How to achieve speedy application response times
Development and operations teams both have a responsibility to ensure fast application response times. Follow this advice to measure and reduce delay.Continue Reading
10 skills of highly effective software testers
QA professionals with hands-on experience and a mix of technical and soft skills offer great value for software engineering teams. Testers with these 10 skills can boost their careers.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 to form a regression testing plan with these 5 questions
Make regression testing part of a software quality control plan. Determine the project's testing requirements, and team preferences, to clarify a potent regression testing strategy.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
Common software compatibility issues and how to fix them
Developers tend to look forward, to the next iteration or the newest software. But, when releasing a feature, don't leave behind end users with older systems and edge case setups.Continue Reading
Apply these types of code coverage to squash most bugs
Learn technical types of code coverage -- such as all-pairs testing and branch tests -- as well as ways to gather meaningful test cases and prioritize them.Continue Reading
Apply automated security scanning during app development
For developers, security is not often a high priority -- but it should be. Automated security scanning tools can help detect and address weaknesses before evildoers discover them.Continue Reading
How to deprecate software features without bothering users
There's more to software deprecation than it seems. Organizations must consider the method of deprecation, how to inform users and what alternatives they should offer.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
How the developer experience builds trickle-down usability
Developer experience is the equivalent of user experience (UX). The way developers experience tools and consume libraries matters and leads to better engagement.Continue Reading
Use these shift-right methods to test code in production
There's no shortage of ways for a QA team to adopt shift-right testing. But, while the approach can fit in with continuous deployment, don't consider it a catch-all for bug removal.Continue Reading
Learn how to improve software quality with reverse-engineering
Customer complaints about a team's app can contain insight on how to improve it. Yet, to decipher the actual cause of any problem and a change to fix it, QA needs to be brought in.Continue Reading
Good teams come clean about their IT competence
How is your company culture going to stay up to date on IT trends? Don't let that question linger, since, sooner or later, you'll work with a technology you don't understand at all.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
Enterprise software developers: Forget minor software bugs
Many enterprises think software isn't perfect unless they eliminate minor defects. However, this approach won't prevent major disasters, and it hinders the practices that would.Continue Reading
How to save DevOps from cargo cult programming
The meaning of DevOps -- better cooperation between developers and operations professionals -- has been lost in many companies. Expert Theresa Neate explains what has to happen.Continue Reading
Security in open source software isn't automatic
Just how much time and effort should you commit to securing all that open source code your organization makes use of? Probably more than you are now.Continue Reading
OSS security requires DIY scrutiny, not trusting 'many eyes'
How many ways can hackers exploit the security flaws in open source? Cybersecurity experts count the ways and the approaches that can prevent costly security breaches.Continue Reading
Missing out on software conferences? Here are four worthy alternatives
When you skip a conference, you miss the chance to hear talks from thought leaders, learn new practices, network and even discover upcoming technological advents. Here are four comparable ways to ...Continue Reading
The secret to DevOps test automation? Pick your battles
The pain of software test automation is real, particularly in a DevOps environment. But what if it was possible to approach it all differently? App maker Airtasker has a plan.Continue Reading
Amp up OSS security with these steps
A test vendor's CTO describes the OSS security mistakes that enterprises make, such as not patching vulnerabilities or inaccurate inventory dependencies.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
Salary snapshot: Test automation engineer salaries in four cities
It seems nearly any job related to DevOps carries a higher salary, and test automation is no exception. Here's our salary snapshot of test automation engineers in four U.S. cities.Continue Reading
Why new feature testing should be at the heart of DevOps
Continuous testing is a good idea, but if used as a Band-Aid, it will miss things. Expert Matt Heusser explains why the focus should be on new feature testing.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
It's past time to revisit Agile's definition of 'done'
The definition of 'done' only covers what happens on the dev side. So, it's not very useful in a DevOps shop. Expert Theresa Neate explains what needs to change.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
Which software engineer skills matter? All of them
The ongoing developer shortage means employers face unique challenges when it comes to hiring. LinkedIn's Sarah O'Brien offers insight into how developers behave and what they're really looking for.Continue Reading
Adoption of continuous testing in DevOps and Agile cultures
The best way to engender continuous testing in DevOps shops? Take the lead. Here's how testers can create change and align disparate goals for organizations.Continue Reading
Agile vs. DevOps: Test your software methodology knowledge
To develop software faster, Agile or DevOps can help. But that doesn't make either choice easy. Test your knowledge to see if you understand what makes each methodology unique.Continue Reading
IBM goes full steam toward eliminating AI problems
At IBM Think 2018, CEO Ginni Rometty discusses ways and tools to overcome AI problems and bottlenecks.Continue Reading
Database virtualization lets developers code with confidence
For the longest time, sharing a database has meant long nights for developers. But as more and more organizations adopt virtualized databases, those days are numbered.Continue Reading
A complete beginner's guide to blending DevOps and security
DevSecOps sounds like a mouthful for those new to DevOps, but building security in from the start is key to DevOps success. Expert Kevin Beaver explains.Continue Reading
A DevOps beginner's guide for user experience professionals
If you're a UX pro brand-new to DevOps, you might wonder where to begin. UX columnist Jason Grant offers a step-by-step approach for designers who are DevOps newbies.Continue Reading
A comprehensive beginner's guide to DevOps for testers
Newcomers to DevOps have a steep learning curve and nowhere more so than in test. Expert Matthew Heusser has a beginner's guide to DevOps and testing.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 enterprises learn from software failure incidents
Research from Etsy and IBM suggests we are learning the wrong lessons from software failure incidents and points toward how to get it right.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
Gene Kim tells why we should all be on a DevOps journey
DevOps advocate Gene Kim is a tireless campaigner for the software development methodology and an enthusiastic newbie skateboarder. Here's why those two skill sets go together.Continue Reading
How a low-code platform can end application sprawl forever
Low-code platforms make it easier for anyone to create apps, but did you know they can be used to stop the spread of app sprawl as well? Successful companies share their secrets.Continue Reading
Take the pain out of software developer hiring
Hiring software developers is hard enough, but finding the right ones for the job is even harder. Here's what you need to consider to future-proof your development team.Continue Reading
Creative ways to boost your in-house enterprise DevOps talent
If only experienced DevOps developers grew on trees. Here's how large enterprises are training their own employees -- and college kids -- to increase the pool of available DevOps talent.Continue Reading
Northrop Grumman explains DevOps teams' successes at DOES 2017
At DOES 2017, Northrop Grumman explained how difficult it was to scale DevOps and why it required changes in everything from testing to training. George Lawton shares the story.Continue Reading
Three experts weigh in on the state of DevOps in 2017
DOES17 will offer a report card on how the development methodology is faring in the enterprise. Three speakers offer their views on what is working, what is not and where we're headed.Continue Reading
An insider's guide to the AI and IoT testing process
Testing the internet of things is one thing, but AI takes it to the next level. A LogiGear executive shares what the company learned from its first serious foray into this world.Continue Reading
Anki test director talks IoT and AI testing challenges
A complicated new game required a complicated testing strategy and help from the outside. Here's what game maker Anki learned from working with LogiGear on AI testing.Continue Reading
Who is responsible for software development and design?
Can developers and designers ever meet in the middle? And if so, how can they speak the same language? Expert Jason Grant offers tried-and-true advice for making it work.Continue Reading
UX vs. UI design: It's complicated but important to understand
User experience is tied to user interface, but they're not the same thing in software design. Expert Jason Grant offers his take on how to use both to make better software.Continue Reading
At the CAST 2017 conference, less testing is the new big thing
Testing expert Matthew Heusser attended CAST 2017 and was surprised to hear why testing less might lead to better software. Here are his key takeaways.Continue Reading
The IoT testing process using microservices and containers
The internet of things is a challenge for software testers. Luckily, microservices and containers can make things more straightforward. Here's where to begin.Continue Reading
How to use microservices and containers for IoT
Developing for IoT can be tricky, particularly when it comes to containers and microservices. Expert Christopher Tozzi outlines the considerations.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
Is Agile stuck? Looking for answers at Agile2017
It's hard not to ask the "Is Agile still relevant?" question today. And it's harder to still to hear some of the answers, ranging from straight up "No" to "too much focus on process" to "they're ...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
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
Here's why IoT testing is really going to matter to QA pros
It's easy to ignore the challenge of IoT and testing if that's not your job, but that's soon going to change. Expert Jennifer Lent explains what you need to know.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'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
Red Hat's 8 rules of successful Open Source
Everyone wants to use and participate in an open source software environment but sadly not everyone knows how to do it right. This is the perspective of Matt Hicks, vice president of engineering ...Continue Reading
Why you need a digital transformation roadmap in 2017
Buzzwords aside, 2017 is the year when digital transformation will begin in earnest. Expert Christopher Ward has done the research that will help you convince the boss.Continue Reading