The world is evolving, and every day we see many tools and products coming up and trying to serve multiple purposes to our community. Do you think that all the products are satisfying and make the customers happy? The answer is, no.&nbsp;



Only a few organizations understand the importance of a quality product and a customer&#8217;s happiness. Why is it so? Because of the lack of awareness about the importance of quality.&nbsp; It&#8217;s not about how many features you have, how quickly you get the product to market, or how many accounts/downloads the app receives. It&#8217;s all about genuine usage, customer satisfaction, and loyalty, testimonials, and recommendations. Now you got the point, yes it’s about the “Customers”.&nbsp;



“Quality products make happy customers” &#8211; To make quality products, we work as a Team. Building a quality team leads to quality products.&nbsp;



In this blog, let’s explore some important aspects of building a quality team.&nbsp;



<div id="toc_container" class="no_bullets">Table Of Contents<ul class="toc_list"><li><a href="#Key_Principles_and_Pillars_for_Quality_Teams">1 Key Principles and Pillars for Quality Teams</a></li><li><a href="#Fostering_a_Culture_of_Quality_within_the_Team">2 Fostering a Culture of Quality within the Team</a></li><li><a href="#The_Role_of_Leadership_in_Upholding_Quality_Standards">3 The Role of Leadership in Upholding Quality Standards</a></li><li><a href="#Conclusion_Striving_Towards_Excellence_Through_Continuous_Quality_Improvement">4 Conclusion: Striving Towards Excellence Through Continuous Quality Improvement</a></li></ul></div>
<h2 id="h-key-principles-and-pillars-for-quality-teams">Key Principles and Pillars for Quality Teams</h2>



Considering the current software testing teams and methodologies, a few can be listed as very important pointers that help to achieve a product’s quality as a Team.



<ul><li>Clear and precise Communication: We all know the importance of communication and timely updates. We should be able to clearly articulate issues, requirements, and feedback to other team members, fostering collaboration and understanding. Also one of the good practices I learned from my leaders is having a habit of providing interim updates. When specific tasks take longer time, always inform the stakeholders about the current status and progress. Also, it’s good to acknowledge the emails or chat messages, once consumed.&nbsp;</li></ul>



<ul><li>Continuous Testing: This may sound like a fancy term. But the implication is simple. Testing should be an ongoing process throughout the entire development cycle. By continuously testing and providing feedback, teams can identify and address issues early.&nbsp;</li></ul>



<ul><li>Accountability: Each team member should be accountable for their actions and responsibilities, hence this promotes a sense of ownership. This helps to avoid conflicts in the team.&nbsp;</li></ul>



<ul><li>Automation: Leveraging automation for testing can help to save our efforts for repetitive and bulk tasks. When it’s a stable application, we can automate the regression test cases and it can be useful in every release. Also for some projects, we require lots of test data, and automating it can be helpful for the team. If there’s an API involved, it’s a good practice to focus on API Automation. This can help to catch the functional bugs earlier. Before involving in automation, do an analysis and make sure to use the automation efforts fully.&nbsp;</li></ul>



<ul><li>Collaboration: It takes two hands to clap and make some noise. Quality is always a team effort. We should work closely with all the project stakeholders, and ensure everyone is on the same page. This helps with the alignment and avoids deviation from the end goal.</li></ul>



<ul><li>Transparency: Transparency is a basic in a Team for developing trust and accountability. Team members should be open and honest with one another, sharing feedback, and discussing the trivial and important things. This facilitates team synergy and bonding.</li></ul>



<ul><li>Problem-Solving Skills: Some say, software testers are problem-finders. Yes, we are. We have a strong sense of feeling about the quality of the product. We are equipped with problem-solving skills to effectively address quality issues. This includes identifying the root causes of the defects by deeper analysis, brainstorming solutions, and suggesting effective solutions.</li></ul>



<ul><li>Training and Development: Continuous learning is important, only then we can provide suggestions for the right situations. Keep learning and upgrade yourself to the latest trends in software testing, automation tools/frameworks, and quality practices.&nbsp;</li></ul>



<ul><li>Feedback Loop: Setting up a feedback loop within the team can help identify areas for improvement. Regular retrospectives and reviews can provide useful information about how the team can improve its processes and quality practices.</li></ul>



<ul><li>Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment (CI/CD): Adopting CI/CD practices can transform the approach to quality. By automating build, test, and deployment pipelines, they can achieve faster feedback loops and streamlined delivery cycles. This can lead to more stable releases with minimal defects reaching production environments.</li></ul>



<h2 id="h-fostering-a-culture-of-quality-within-the-team">Fostering a Culture of Quality within the Team</h2>



To ensure that quality becomes ingrained in your team&#8217;s DNA, foster a culture that promotes collaboration, learning from mistakes, continuous improvement, and open communication. Encourage team members to run knowledge-sharing sessions/webinars, conduct regular code reviews, pair testing, partake in cross-functional training sessions, and celebrate all the big and small wins together.



1. Competence and Experience:



<ul><li>Team members should possess the relevant skills and a deep understanding of software testing principles and practices.</li><li>Certifications and industry experience are indicators of proficiency.</li></ul>



2. Communication and Teamwork:



<ul><li>Effective and precise communication among team members is essential for articulating expectations, resolving challenges, and fostering a cohesive work environment.</li><li>Choosing and Using the right mode of communication among the project stakeholders.</li><li>Strong communication leads to building good team morale, and teamwork makes wonders.</li></ul>



3. Well-defined Process and Methodology:



<ul><li>A well-structured testing process/strategy outlines the steps, roles, processes, and responsibilities involved in testing phases and guides the entire team.</li><li>Standardized methodologies like Agile or Waterfall or whatever fits the project nature can be chosen and implemented correctly.&nbsp;</li></ul>



4. Access to Adequate Tools and Resources:



<ul><li>Based on the latest growth in the software testing industry, it provides access and freedom to play around different tools and to do research.</li><li>Access to training materials and platforms ensures team members stay updated with the latest testing trends and technologies.</li></ul>



5. Supportive Management:



<ul><li>Leaders should act as a bridge between the management and employees.</li><li>Support from the management is required to provide the team with all the necessary resources/materials, power, freedom, and environment to perform their tasks effectively.</li><li>Setting clear expectations, providing regular feedback, and recognizing and rewarding achievements contribute to a positive and motivating work culture.</li></ul>



<h2 id="h-the-role-of-leadership-in-upholding-quality-standards">The Role of Leadership in Upholding Quality Standards</h2>



Leadership plays a crucial role in setting expectations around quality standards. By providing resources for training, and tools required for automation, and promoting a blame-free environment for sharing feedback openly – leaders can empower their teams to strive for excellence in every aspect of software testing.



In addition to these factors, a quality team in software testing can significantly benefit the broader software testing community:



Benefits for the Software Testing Community:



1. Enhanced Software Quality:



A quality team contributes to delivering high-quality, reliable, and secure software, benefiting end-users and stakeholders.



2. Sharing of Best Practices:



By sharing successful strategies, methodologies, and tools, a quality team can contribute to the overall improvement of software testing practices within the community.



3. Contribution to Resource Development:



Quality teams often contribute to the development of new testing tools, frameworks, and resources through open-source projects or publications.



4. Collaboration and Learning Opportunities:



Collaboration between quality teams fosters knowledge exchange, encourages innovation, and provides opportunities for continuous professional growth.



Fostering a quality team in software testing not only benefits the organization but also positively impacts the software testing community, leading to advancements in testing practices and improved software quality for everyone.



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<h2 id="h-conclusion-striving-towards-excellence-through-continuous-quality-improvement">Conclusion: Striving Towards Excellence Through Continuous Quality Improvement</h2>



In conclusion, achieving <a href="https://website.testsigma.com/guides/quality-assurance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quality in software testing</a> is an ongoing journey that requires dedication from every team member. Also, it doesn’t happen overnight. The team needs to work through this together. 



As we discussed, team harmony, leadership in testing, and implementing the best practices throughout the testing life cycle can help us to deliver high-quality products that make users happy and content. Start implementing these strategies today to elevate your team&#8217;s performance &amp; deliver top-notch products consistently!

How Should a Team Have Quality: For the Software Testing Community

Code Freeze and its Relevance

In the fast-moving world of software development, where being innovative and ensuring top-notch quality is crucial, the key to success lies in the skills of the testing team. A good testing team works seamlessly, making sure every bit of code meets strict standards for how well it works, how reliable it is, and how safe it keeps users&#8217; data.&nbsp;



Every aspect, from strategic planning by leaders to the collaboration between testers and developers, is crucial for achieving top-notch software quality. Let us see and understand the skills and dedication that define a testing team ready for success in today&#8217;s ever-evolving software environment. Test Lead : The role of a Test Lead in driving quality assurance excellence is crucial within a software testing team. Test Leads are responsible for overseeing the testing process from start to finish, ensuring that every aspect of the software is thoroughly tested to meet quality standards. Below are a few of the role-specific responsibilities that lie on the test lead’s shoulder. Planning: They are typically involved in creating a best-suited plan for the project keeping all the aspects in consideration. They strategize on how testing resources will be allocated and how test coverage will be achieved. 



Coordinating: Test Leads coordinate testing activities among team members, ensuring that everyone understands their roles and responsibilities. They manage schedules, prioritize tasks, and track progress to keep testing efforts on track. They also coordinate with the team members from other teams if necessary to smoothen the testing process. Accountability: Ultimately, Test Leads are accountable for the overall success of the testing process. They monitor the quality of test execution, identify and mitigate risks, and make decisions to optimize testing efficiency and effectiveness. Overall test Leads play a critical role in driving quality assurance excellence by meticulously planning, coordinating, and leading testing efforts, while also emphasizing the importance of leadership, communication, and collaboration skills in their role.



Test Manager :&nbsp; Test Managers are mainly responsible for orchestrating the strategic direction of quality assurance efforts across the organization. These are some responsibilities that a test manager will have to take over, depending on the team size. Resource Management : Test Managers are responsible for allocating resources effectively, including personnel, tools, and budgets. They must assess project requirements and allocate resources accordingly to optimize testing efficiency and productivity.



Quality Assurance Leadership: Test Managers provide leadership and guidance to their testing teams, fostering a culture of quality, excellence, and continuous improvement. They mentor team members, provide feedback, and facilitate knowledge sharing to enhance testing capabilities and expertise.



Reflecting on Project Goals:Test Managers play a critical role in aligning testing activities with the overall goals and objectives of each project. They collaborate closely with project managers, stakeholders, and development teams to ensure that testing efforts are synchronized with project timelines, milestones, and deliverables.



Overall, Test Managers serve as the linchpin of a high-performing testing team, leveraging their strategic vision, resource management skills, and quality assurance leadership to drive successful outcomes across multiple projects.



Core Responsibilities of Testers: Multifaceted Responsibilities:Testers are not limited to executing predefined test cases but have a range of duties crucial for ensuring software quality. These responsibilities extend to various aspects of the testing process, contributing significantly to the overall effectiveness of testing efforts.Testers participate in requirement analysis to understand the project&#8217;s goals, objectives, and user needs. Testers are involved in test planning and design, where they define test objectives, scope, and strategies. Testers play a crucial role in identifying defects and issues during the testing process. Testers collaborate with developers, product managers, and other stakeholders throughout the software development lifecycle.



Designing <a href="https://website.testsigma.com/blog/automated-test-scripts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Automated Test Scripts</a>: Automation Test Engineers create and develop automated test scripts to simulate user actions and verify software functionality.These scripts automate repetitive test scenarios, enhancing testing efficiency and allowing testers to focus on more complex tasks.



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Implementing Automation Solution: Automation Engineers implement automation frameworks and tools to streamline testing processes and reduce manual effort.By leveraging automation solutions, they optimize test execution and improve overall testing efficiency.



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Effective Communication: Clear communication is essential for testers to convey their findings, report bugs accurately, and collaborate effectively with developers. Proper documentation of test results and bug reports facilitates smooth communication within the testing team and with other project stakeholders.



These points clearly offer a comprehensive insight into the diverse responsibilities of testers that extend far beyond the mere execution of test cases.



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">The strength of the team is each individual member.The strength of each member is the team. &#8211; Phil Jackson</blockquote>



<h3 id="h-tester-developer-coordination">Tester-Developer Coordination:</h3>



The synergy between testers and developers is vital for ensuring the quality and reliability of software products. Effective collaboration between these two roles enhances bug identification, resolution, and overall software quality. Here are a few pointers on how testers and developers can work together collaboratively:



<ul><li>Testers and developers should be involved in the development process from the outset, collaborating on requirements gathering, design discussions, and implementation strategies.</li><li>Testers and developers should maintain open and transparent communication channels throughout the development process.</li><li>Regular meetings, stand-ups, and collaborative tools can facilitate real-time communication and information sharing between testers and developers.</li><li>Both testers and developers should actively promote a culture of collaboration within their teams and organizations.</li><li>Testers and developers should share ownership of software quality and collectively strive to deliver high-quality products to end-users.</li><li>Testers and developers should engage in pair programming and testing sessions, working together to write code and conduct tests simultaneously. This collaborative approach facilitates immediate feedback and ensures that code is thoroughly tested as it is developed.</li><li>Testers and developers participate in bug triage meetings to prioritize and address reported issues effectively. These meetings provide a forum for collaborative problem-solving, enabling testers and developers to work together to resolve defects efficiently.</li></ul>



By embracing these additional strategies for collaboration, testers and developers can strengthen their partnerships and drive continuous improvement in software quality. Their combined efforts foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and excellence.



Continuous Improvement :



Continuous improvement is all about finding ways to make things better, and testers play a crucial role in this process. Here&#8217;s how they contribute:



<ul><li>Testers should share their thoughts and experiences about testing processes, pointing out what works well and what could be improved.</li><li>Offering insights based on testing activities, identifying areas where processes could be streamlined or enhanced.</li><li>Whether it&#8217;s proposing new tools, techniques, or approaches, testers should actively contribute to brainstorming ways to improve the testing workflow</li><li>Testers should join retrospectives, where teams reflect on past projects and discuss what went well, what didn&#8217;t, and how to do better in the future.</li><li>Testers should actively participate in knowledge-sharing sessions, sharing best practices, tips, and techniques with their peers. By disseminating their expertise, they empower team members to enhance their skills and contribute more effectively to testing efforts.</li><li>Testers should advocate for the standardization of testing processes and methodologies across projects. They document successful practices and lessons learned, promoting consistency and efficiency in testing practices.</li><li>By providing feedback, suggesting improvements, and actively participating in retrospectives, testers help enhance overall team efficiency.</li><li>Their contributions lead to smoother workflows, better collaboration, and ultimately, higher-quality software products.</li></ul>



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In summary, teamwork is key to success in the fast-moving world of software development. Every team member, from planners to executors, plays a crucial role in ensuring software quality. Testers, supported by their multifaceted responsibilities and harmonious partnership with developers, serve as the cornerstone of this collective effort. Through continuous efforts towards enhancement and transparent communication, this collaborative attitude fosters a culture of excellence, guiding the team towards triumph in today&#8217;s ever-changing software arena.

The Anatomy of a High-Performing Software Testing Team

Each year, aspirants enter the software industry through various roles. Software testing is one of these roles. If you are a beginner or planning to kick-start your career in software testing, this article will take you on a journey to some of the unknown and undiscussed aspects of this industry. We&#8217;ll also travel through the emotional aspects of software testing, exploring the stress, challenges, and strategies for staying sane in a high-stakes environment.



<div id="toc_container" class="no_bullets">Table Of Contents<ul class="toc_list"><li><a href="#Testing_8211_An_Emotional_Activity">1 Testing &#8211; An Emotional Activity</a></li><li><a href="#Stress_Boosters_in_the_Software_Testing_World">2 Stress Boosters in the Software Testing World</a><ul><li><a href="#Work-Related_Factors">2.1 Work-Related Factors</a></li><li><a href="#Technology_Related_Factors">2.2 Technology Related Factors</a></li><li><a href="#Time-Related_Factors">2.3 Time-Related Factors</a></li><li><a href="#Communication_Factors">2.4 Communication Factors</a></li><li><a href="#Emotional_Factors">2.5 Emotional Factors</a></li></ul></li><li><a href="#Combating_Stress_with_Emotional_Intelligence">3 Combating Stress with Emotional Intelligence</a></li><li><a href="#Practical_Tips_8211_From_Experience">4 Practical Tips &#8211; From Experience</a></li></ul></div>
<h2 id="h-testing-an-emotional-activity">Testing &#8211; An Emotional Activity</h2>



<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter"><img src="https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/kACeUAF71jxKVRiaYoAZywxgZSUz3K3B1L3yiXjW44XHwHHOLhkEVIWAnz455KfaI9zjavGFtyhQaa5JBa_ZT3ftdhX9A8LluA6h7XRgezfpwKZ8sqQyQaVQaQhec4cWVdChbyQlPg6eejVoLy54tA" alt="Testing - An Emotional Activity" /></figure></div>



So, if you are still wondering whether software testing is a stressful job?&nbsp;



Yes, it is.&nbsp;



In a competitive world, a lot of jobs come with stress and pressure.&nbsp;



So, what makes software testing different? Let&#8217;s look at some of the human aspects that touch the nerves of this profession, making it an emotional activity:



<ol><li>Time: Time pressure is a constant companion in the world of testing, amplifying the emotional toll of the job. As a testing professional, you will often find yourself with tight deadlines to test a new feature before it goes live. Every second counts as you race against time, ensuring that the product is stable and the user experience is seamless. Remaining calm and focused amidst the chaos is a trait, honed through experience and emotional intelligence.</li></ol>



<ol start="2"><li>Emotional Stress: Each bug discovered is a victory for software testers, but it also puts you in a situation where you are the messenger of bad news. When the whole team is cheering for the product to succeed, a tester celebrates finding critical issues in the product. This puts even the most seasoned testers into an emotionally stressful state.</li></ol>



<ol start="3"><li>Blame Game:&nbsp; In cases when critical failures are found in production, testers are often the first people getting hammered. The pressure to diagnose, resolve, and prevent such slippage can be overwhelming, leading to heightened stress levels among testers.</li></ol>



<ol start="4"><li>Team Differences: Testing is a team game, and like any team, differences in mindset, culture, and interests add a layer of complexity to the job.</li></ol>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“Software testers always go to heaven; they’ve already had their fair share of hell.”– Anonymous</blockquote>



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<h2 id="stress-boosters-in-the-software-testing-world">Stress Boosters in the Software Testing World</h2>



Now that we&#8217;ve explored the emotional landscape of testing, let&#8217;s understand the various factors that contribute to stress in the software testing world.



Activity: Use the below factors to calculate your stress score at work. Add “+1” for every factor that you face in your day-to-day work. By the end of this section, we will calculate your testing stress levels.&nbsp;



<h3 id="work-related-factors">Work-Related Factors</h3>



<ol><li>High Expectations for Accuracy &amp; Coverage</li></ol>



Testing is not limited to writing test cases. It is also about ensuring comprehensive coverage and traceability reports. The pressure to leave no key aspect unchecked and untracked can be immense, leading to high stress levels.



2. Rigorous Attention to Identify Bugs



Testing requires a keen eye for detail and depth, as even the smallest oversight can lead to catastrophic bugs slipping through the gaps. High focus and attention lead to high stress levels.



3. Leaving No Stones Unturned



The fear of missing a critical area or variable in test design can keep testers up at night, driving them to push themselves.



4. High Stakes &amp; Impact on Missing Critical Issues



Today, the world runs on software. This raises the stakes and impact of missing critical issues. These things can have far-reaching consequences for both the product and as well as company&#8217;s reputation.



5. Project Complexity and Client Demands



Navigating complex projects with frequently changing / uncertain requirements or bleeding-edge technology needs can become a source of stress for testers. The situation aggravates when coupled with demanding clients who expect flawless execution amidst uncertainty.



<h3 id="technology-related-factors">Technology Related Factors</h3>



<ol><li>Keeping up with Continuous Learning Requirements</li></ol>



At present time, staying ahead of the curve requires testers to constantly upskill and expand their knowledge base, which is an overwhelming task.



2. Need for Adaptability to New Methodologies



As new methodologies and best practices emerge, like other tech workers, good testers need to be adaptable and willing to embrace change, adding another dimension of stress to the job.



3. Understanding Complex and Diverse Systems



Testing isn&#8217;t just about understanding the system from an end-user perspective; it&#8217;s also about navigating complex and diverse internal details of an application. This can be mentally taxing in certain projects.



<h3 id="time-related-factors">Time-Related Factors</h3>



<ol><li>Frequent Release Cycles Increasing Pressure</li></ol>



The pressure to deliver results quickly can lead to burnout among testers, especially when coupled with unplanned release cycles.



2. Managing Workload During Crunch Times



Shared testers among multiple projects lead to crunch times that can be stressful, as they&#8217;re tasked with juggling multiple deadlines simultaneously.



<h3 id="communication-factors">Communication Factors</h3>



<ol><li>Collaborating with Cross-Functional Teams</li></ol>



Testing involves collaborating with cross-functional teams, each with its priorities and objectives, leading to conflicts and misunderstandings.



2. Effectively Communicating Technical Issues



Documenting and communicating technical issues clearly and concisely can be challenging, especially when dealing with non-technical stakeholders. Lack of this skill can add to the stress levels.



3. Dealing with Conflicts and Differing Opinions



Conflicts and differing opinions are part of any team environment. Navigating these dynamics can be draining leading to cognitive dissonance for testers.



<h3 id="emotional-factors">Emotional Factors</h3>



<ol><li>Perception of Testing as a Less Prestigious Role</li></ol>



For most newcomers in the testing world, there is a common perception of testing being a less prestigious or useful role compared to development, leading to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem. While the perception is wrong, it can add to a lot of stress.



2. Sensitivity to Repetitive Tasks and Burnout



Testing can involve repetitive tasks, which can quickly lead to burnout if not managed effectively.



3. Experience and Skill Level



Junior testers may experience heightened stress levels due to a lack of experience and confidence in their abilities. Whereas, Senior testers may face stress from leadership responsibilities, such as mentoring junior team members and making high-stakes decisions.



Activity Analysis: If your score from the above activity is 8 or above, then you are working in a considerably stressful situation. To help you cope with stress, it is important to be conscious of your stress factors and find ways to reduce stress.&nbsp;



P.S. Seek professional help if you feel stuck in a high-stress environment.



<h2 id="combating-stress-with-emotional-intelligence">Combating Stress with Emotional Intelligence</h2>



In the previous section, we discussed various stressors as well as emotional factors that lead to stressful situations for software testers. Good emotional and personal management can help combat these stressful situations.&nbsp;



Let’s understand how can emotional intelligence (EI) help you combat stress.



<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter"><img src="https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/SaQdQ31phLybaIS0tI10Lwa50-EMwZApfA4uMi0oX4Ld4zUHvy0w-kz09LWj-yMmgAJUS7cjs-sgQb9w55O3kE-k7S6r9txIeH5AqQOttxI0cNL4sHK_r1l2zCRlWGl-y1UjgpJXLk4Boz6NYyPKgQ" alt="Combating Stress with Emotional Intelligence" /></figure></div>



So, what is Emotional Intelligence?&nbsp;



It is the ability to manage both your own emotions and understand the emotions of people around you.



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>High Emotional Intelligence (EI)</td></tr><tr><td>Characteristics</td><td>Helps with</td></tr><tr><td>Self-Aware</td><td>Anger Management</td></tr><tr><td>Self-Managed</td><td>Negative Thoughts</td></tr><tr><td>Socially-Aware</td><td>Criticism &amp; Conflicts</td></tr><tr><td>Good at Negotiations</td><td>Pressure and workload management</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



Here are some strategies to get better at your emotional management and raising your overall emotional intelligence:



<ul><li>Reflect on your own emotions. Ask others for perspective when in doubt.</li><li>When criticized, don&#8217;t take offense. Instead, ask &#8220;What can I learn or offer?&#8221;</li></ul>



Check out this article by Prashant Hegde about Hanlon Razor available on Testsigma blog to get better at this:<a href="https://website.testsigma.com/blog/why-testers-should-embrace-hanlons-razor/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Why Testers Should Embrace Hanlon&#8217;s Razor (testsigma.com)</a>



<ul><li>Use &#8220;The Pause&#8221;. Avoid reacting to things immediately. You can always choose to take a pause instead of reacting quickly. Taking a “pause” creates an opportunity to think and choose a better response.</li><li>Explore the WHY behind stressful situations.<ul><li>Why does this person (subordinate, customer, manager, or teammate) feel this way? </li><li>What are they dealing with that I don&#8217;t see?</li><li>Why do I feel different than them?</li></ul></li><li>Build social awareness &amp; social skills such as:<ul><li>Persuasion. Recommended read:<a href="https://www.satisfice.com/blog/archives/487452" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow"> Persuasion for Testers &#8211; Satisfice, Inc.</a></li><li>Influence. Recommended read:<a href="https://www.amazon.in/Secrets-Consulting-Giving-Getting-Advice/dp/0932633013" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> The Secrets of Consulting</a> </li><li>Negotiation. Recommended read:<a href="https://secretsofconsulting.blogspot.com/2006/05/yielding-to-pressure-vs-negotiating.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Yielding to Pressure vs. Negotiating</a></li><li>Leadership. Recommended read:<a href="https://website.testsigma.com/blog/qa-lead-responsibilities/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Leading Your QA Team to Success: Insights from a Head of QA (testsigma.com)</a></li><li>Conflict resolution &amp; Effective Communication. Recommended read:<a href="https://website.testsigma.com/blog/effective-communication-for-testers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> How Testers Can Communicate Effectively in Today&#8217;s Business World (testsigma.com)</a></li></ul></li></ul>



<h2 id="practical-tips-from-experience">Practical Tips &#8211; From Experience</h2>



<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter"><img src="https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/3w5kBzma79qq_cbJLtxb7DRVhIVgEXK6vPn9SDtfFulhDaB_H_OZMeJssRH6R1P4t9c5CxsosWpBGX_JCpCUestMQMpQQLlRC9CUBxAIFPCxcQOqnLIw6F1kIS8QAIFRbw5zQ4rXP49f_qU8tYipmQ" alt="Practical Tips - From Experience" /></figure></div>



Now that we&#8217;ve discussed the concept of emotional intelligence and how you can work towards raising your emotional intelligence, I want to share some practical tips from my own experience.&nbsp;



I use these tips as a periodic self-reminder in times of stress and crisis. It works!



<ul><li>Every day, you make a choice. Know that it’s always in your control to make a choice.</li><li>Plan for small steps instead of overnight changes.</li><li>Reconsider negative events from a positive perspective: Try to focus on the positive aspects.</li></ul>



Tip: Ask yourself &#8220;What is the opposite of it?&#8221; to formulate a positive statement



<ul><li>Talk about solutions instead of problems<ul><li>Incorrect❌: The reported defects often have missed essential info on how to reproduce it</li><li>Correct ✅: Our bug reporting guide can mention what information is necessary to understand and fix defects. We can share that with our team of testers.</li></ul></li><li>Use Socratic Questioning: i.e., Question the thoughts that contribute to your anxiety. Ask yourself:<ul><li>“Are my thoughts based on facts or feelings?”</li><li>“How would my customers see this situation?”</li><li>“How likely is it that my anticipated risks will come true?”</li><li>“What’s most likely to happen in case of failures?”</li><li>“If this goes wrong, will it still matter in a week? A month? A year?”</li></ul></li><li>Do regular exercise &amp; meditation: There is no golden rule for it. Everyone has their approach and preference. Do whatever works for you but find ways to:<ul><li>Move your body</li><li>Calm your mind</li><li>Avoid straining your body</li><li>Live an ergonomic lifestyle</li></ul></li><li>Remind yourself: You have to spend 40 years here with your career.</li></ul>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">”Don’t sweat the small stuff, it’s all small stuff”Richard Carlson</blockquote>



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Is Software Testing a Stressful Job?Uncovering the Unknown Sides

Last few years, I have been reading and writing a lot on sustainability with performance and resilience testing. I already published 6+ articles and presented in couple of international conferences on this intense topic.&nbsp;



Organizations are now getting matured after digital transformations and already aware of the facts that performance and resilience testing assists in sustainability in below 2 ways:



<ul><li>First, by making the application or websites faster (if application is faster, then it uses less data to serve the request and eventually it will generate less carbon to the environment)</li><li>Second, by optimizing the server resources (if server resources are optimized, then it consumes less energy which is better from sustainability perspective)&nbsp;</li></ul>



Organizations are also leveraging the benefits of cloud computing for cost savings as well as for sustainability. As a next step, organizations are now thinking about how they can uplift their performance testing process for better sustainability and less cost (in addition with ensuring enhanced end-user experience and confirming consistency).&nbsp;



In this blog, I will talk about my personal perspective on the matured performance and resilience testing for improved sustainability post-digital transformation along with continuous FinOps activities.



<div id="toc_container" class="no_bullets">Table Of Contents<ul class="toc_list"><li><a href="#While_Digital_Transformation">1 While Digital Transformation:</a></li><li><a href="#Post_Digital_Transformation">2 Post Digital Transformation:</a></li><li><a href="#Conclusion">3 Conclusion:</a></li></ul></div>
<h2 id="while-digital-transformation">While Digital Transformation:</h2>



In my earlier LinkedIn blog, I talked about organizations need to be very serious when conducting full-blown performance and resilience test executions for minimizing carbon footprint (<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/organizations-need-very-serious-when-conducting-full-blown-dutta" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/organizations-need-very-serious-when-conducting-full-blown-dutta</a>).



Performance testing absolutely assists in reducing carbon footprint, however executing too many full-blown performance or resilience tests create higher carbon footprint. We all know automated testing is having better sustainability and performance testing is always automated. So, it is having less carbon footprint from that angle.&nbsp;



Then again, performance and resilience testing (load, stress, capacity planning, endurance, volume or game day testing or different kinds of resilience testing) is having a huge workload as it is driven by thousands of users if not millions. For the Internet of Things, there are millions of devices. This huge workload creates a higher carbon footprint.



So, while organizations are in the process of digital transformations and migrating towards cloud, full blown performance testing was necessary to ensure the as-is performance or improved performance for their end-users. Even organizations must think about the ongoing cloud cost (already talked about this in detail in EuroSTAR Huddle back in 2020 <a href="https://huddle.eurostarsoftwaretesting.com/applications-dont-run-fast-in-cloud-without-continuous-performance-testing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">https://huddle.eurostarsoftwaretesting.com/applications-dont-run-fast-in-cloud-without-continuous-performance-testing/</a>).



Continuous performance testing and monitoring is absolutely required for happy end-users, for cost savings and for sustainability. Even, continuous performance testing is beneficial for cloud cost savings (FinOps). Organizations are already leveraging different techniques, processes, or methodologies to make the improved application performance which assists in less carbon footprint.&nbsp;



Adopting optimized resource driven high-availability concepts, application containerization or different web performance optimization practices both on client side and server side etc. are carried out to ensure reduced carbon footprint.&nbsp;



Cloud is using green and clean energy. Organizations are also ensuring green energy for their data centres. Organizations can also think about sustainable capacity planning for reduced carbon footprint, published in Quality Matters magazine (<a href="https://www.quality-matters.org/index.php?page=qm-issues-archive&amp;issue=15" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">https://www.quality-matters.org/index.php?page=qm-issues-archive&amp;issue=15</a>). 



<h2 id="post-digital-transformation">Post Digital Transformation:</h2>



We all know the main objective of performance and resilience testing services is to efficiently use all the system resources and that directly impacts energy efficiency. While with digital transformations, organizations are fully focused on ensuring optimum performance for end-users and optimum utilizations (thus by both saving cost and ensuring sustainability).&nbsp;



Post digital transformations, organizations will be more interested in less carbon footprint for all their SDLC activities along with cost savings without compromising the quality attributes. As performance and resilience testing is having huge workload, it becomes priority for organizations to look closely on performance testing activities to reduce carbon footprint.



First, unnecessary, or unplanned performance and resiliency test execution should be strictly avoided. Second, conducting full-blown performance and resilience testing in very low scalable environment or hardware/software configuration mismatch with the live environment should be strictly escaped. Both activities assist not only in reducing carbon footprint but also save a lot of effort and costs.&nbsp;



Third, Organizations should not conduct full blown performance testing frequently rather impact-based performance testing should be conducted. Once in a while, full blown performance testing will be good enough post-digital transformations until added huge workload.



&nbsp;Impact based performance testing will be having less workload and component level, resulting in less carbon emission. By identifying and resolving issues at the early component level will not only be cost-effective but also reduce energy consumption for debugging and fixing defects.



Fourth, time duration of performance testing or steady state duration should be reduced to have less carbon footprint (30 mins from 1 Hour or 2 hour). Long duration endurance testing should not be conducted frequently. Even for those conducted endurance test, execution window should not be more than 4 hours from 8 or 16 or 24 hours. Endurance testing workload should be average load instead of peak load.



Fifth, when performance test duration and user workload is reduced, huge amount of performance test data preparation activities simply will not be required. That will also minimize huge carbon footprint.&nbsp;



Sixth, when user workload is reduced, corresponding load generator or injector machine counts will also be reduced. Goal should be achieving more users with few resources. This again lowers the carbon emission.&nbsp; We should try to use cloud load generators, if possible, for better sustainability. Even efficient management of performance test environment (Pre-prod/Stage/Performance) and performance test lab environment (Controllers/Load Generators) are absolutely required for better sustainability.



Overall, impact-based, low volume, short duration, specific goal-oriented performance, and resiliency testing will be very helpful.&nbsp;



Seventh, conducting the performance and resilience testing at off-hours will lead to less carbon footprint. Even green testing techniques like optimizing the performance test scenarios will assist in reducing carbon footprint.



Eighth, on-premise organizations can use the existing hardware for a longer duration (extending the hardware lifespan for hardware efficiency) to reduce less carbon footprint and have less e-waste. Even try to evaluate the power consumption of background applications on mobile, devices and servers and, if possible, minimize it for better sustainability.



Ninth, organizations should also continuously look to reduce the amount of data transfer and distance that they cover (like using Content Delivery Work).



Tenth, using the emulator instead of real devices will be having less carbon footprint. In case of real devices, device lifecycles must be increased. For example, a device which is replaced in 3 years &#8211; try to extend it to 5 years. However, proper support from device organizations is also required so that device is effective in this changing technological world. Optimized device battery usage should be another way of sustainability.



In a nutshell, all the above reduce the costs and provide better sustainability. which every organization should be interested in, post digital transformation.



<h2 id="h-conclusion">Conclusion:</h2>



Post digital transformation, organizations should be conducting performance testing in test early, test only when required instead of test always or test often fashion. Continuous impact-based low volume, shorter-duration <a href="https://website.testsigma.com/blog/performance-testing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">performance testing</a> rather than always on, full volume, longer duration performance testing should be priority for better sustainability.

Performance & Resilience Testing for Improved Sustainability Post Digital Transformation

In today&#8217;s fast-paced Agile world, rapid product deliveries often lead to an increase in critical issues. This can be attributed to factors such as insufficient unit test coverage, limited testing time, and resource constraints, making the Cost of Quality (COQ) integral for aligning IT projects.&nbsp;



The cost of software quality is the calculated expense required to ensure a product or service meets its quality standards. This understanding is crucial for informed decision-making throughout the software development life cycle, enabling effective resource allocation, optimized testing strategies, and overall improvement in product quality.



<div id="toc_container" class="no_bullets">Table Of Contents<ul class="toc_list"><li><a href="#What_is_the_cost_of_software_quality">1 What is the cost of software quality?</a></li><li><a href="#Why_is_the_cost_of_software_quality_important">2 Why is the cost of software quality important?</a></li><li><a href="#What_are_the_components_of_the_cost_of_quality">3 What are the components of the cost of quality?</a><ul><li><a href="#Cost_Of_Good_Quality">3.1 Cost Of Good Quality:</a><ul><li><a href="#Prevention_Costnbsp">3.1.1 Prevention Cost:&nbsp;</a></li><li><a href="#Detection_Cost">3.1.2 Detection Cost:</a></li></ul></li><li><a href="#Cost_Of_Bad_Quality">3.2 Cost Of Bad Quality:</a><ul><li><a href="#Internal_Failure_Cost">3.2.1 Internal Failure Cost:</a></li><li><a href="#External_Failure_Cost">3.2.2 External Failure Cost:</a></li></ul></li></ul></li><li><a href="#Cost_of_Quality_Formula">4 Cost of Quality Formula</a></li><li><a href="#Different_COQ_Strategies">5 Different COQ Strategies</a><ul><li><a href="#1_Invest_in_Prevention">5.1 1. Invest in Prevention:</a></li><li><a href="#2_Early_Detection">5.2 2. Early Detection:</a></li><li><a href="#3_Continuous_Improvement">5.3 3. Continuous Improvement:</a></li><li><a href="#4_Customer_Feedback_Loop">5.4 4. Customer Feedback Loop:</a></li></ul></li><li><a href="#COQ_Breakup">6 COQ Breakup</a></li><li><a href="#Optimizing_the_Cost_of_Quality">7 Optimizing the Cost of Quality</a></li><li><a href="#Cost_of_Quality_Assessment">8 Cost of Quality Assessment</a></li><li><a href="#Cost_of_Quality_Reporting">9 Cost of Quality Reporting</a></li><li><a href="#Business_value_of_software_testing">10 Business value of software testing:</a></li><li><a href="#Conclusion">11 Conclusion</a></li><li><a href="#Frequently_Asked_Question">12 Frequently Asked Question</a><ul><li><a href="#What_is_the_difference_between_Coq_and_COPQ">12.1 What is the difference between Coq and COPQ?</a></li></ul></li></ul></div>
<h2 id="h-what-is-the-cost-of-software-quality">What is the cost of software quality?</h2>



Cost of software quality refers to a method that calculates the cost needed to ensure a product or service meets its quality standards. Understanding the cost of software quality is crucial for informed decision-making in the software development life cycle.&nbsp;



It enables effective resource allocation, optimization of testing strategies, and overall improvement in software product quality. Investing in software testing and preventive measures helps reduce the risk of defects, boosts customer satisfaction, and reduces long-term costs associated with poor software quality.



<h2 id="h-why-is-the-cost-of-software-quality-important">Why is the cost of software quality important?</h2>



The cost of software quality is important for several reasons as it directly impacts customer satisfaction, operational efficiency, and overall business reputation. High-quality software not only meets user expectations but also minimizes operational issues, contributing to a positive business image.&nbsp;



Prioritizing software quality is a strategic investment that enhances customer trust and sets the foundation for long-term success in a competitive market.



<h2 id="h-what-are-the-components-of-the-cost-of-quality">What are the components of the cost of quality?</h2>



The cost of quality includes both the cost of achieving good quality and the cost of poor quality. It involves various checks, each associated with additional costs. By understanding and handling these costs well, organizations can improve their processes, and boost the overall quality of their products or services.



<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter"><img src="https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/TEwlLUWNJBYhl7qq9qRJq13jwZkuPRDJMAIdkxiqF3AuTAUN9Ygwgos2P2QQ_LgP4m4BIkn4IlnecF4CJx3NvhSKszVVlBIOYY7zowJGhxfHfMOEeTyPkXEdRRlo85vXJTqiTyhAzYfMr9hgWib2pkg" alt="Cost of quality" /></figure></div>



<h3 id="h-cost-of-good-quality">Cost Of Good Quality:</h3>



<h4 id="h-prevention-cost">Prevention Cost:&nbsp;</h4>



Prevention Costs are important when evaluating the Cost of Good Quality (COGQ). It focuses on proactive measures, including ongoing training, adherence to standards, detailed product requirements, code analysis, and process improvement.



<h4 id="h-detection-cost">Detection Cost:</h4>



Detection Cost is related to determining if the product meets quality requirements. It is associated with the activities like test design, test cases, testing environments, and resources dedicated to testing, aimed at catching defects early.



<h3 id="h-cost-of-bad-quality">Cost Of Bad Quality:</h3>



<h4 id="h-internal-failure-cost">Internal Failure Cost:</h4>



Internal Failure Cost is associated with fixing defects before customer delivery. It includes rework, re-testing, and addressing defects during internal checks.



<h4 id="h-external-failure-cost">External Failure Cost:</h4>



External failure cost is related to the bugs after the product or service reaches the customer. It includes warranty claims, re-testing costs, development costs to fix the bug, customer returns, customer support, and potential damage to the organization&#8217;s reputation.



<h2 id="h-cost-of-quality-formula">Cost of Quality Formula</h2>



The Cost of Quality Formula helps organizations evaluate the total expenses linked to preventing and fixing quality issues, offering insights into the effectiveness of their quality management processes.



The Cost of Quality (COQ) is calculated by summing up the Cost of Good Quality and the Cost of Poor Quality.&nbsp;



COQ = Cost of Good Quality + Cost of Poor Quality&nbsp;



Additionally, it can be described as the sum of Prevention Costs, Appraisal Costs, Internal Failure Costs, and External Failure Costs.&nbsp;



COQ = Prevention Costs+Appraisal Costs+Internal Failure Costs+External Failure Costs



This formula offers insights into the total expenses linked to preventing and fixing quality issues, providing a measure of the effectiveness of an organization&#8217;s quality management processes.



<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter"><img src="https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/6ITVh0jPzzVQ5LIzfAnxDF5mqhI_SBok1mjObyQqnSlMQM_wtXenxHD_U9l5OVGL7cjCl_J4Z56T3ApGUwrJ-2mFHO3KC8FtGLMrW_qVFNWR6W28HAKyvcdZeZtd4gwRIo4XGWsnrf_f3wC-WfzM8I4" alt="COQ" /></figure></div>



<h2 id="h-different-coq-strategies">Different COQ Strategies</h2>



The different strategies collectively contribute to a comprehensive and proactive approach to managing the Cost of Quality, ensuring that resources are strategically allocated to prevent, detect, and address defects throughout the software development life cycle.



<h3 id="h-1-invest-in-prevention">1. Invest in Prevention:</h3>



One key strategy in managing the Cost of Quality (CoQ) is to proactively focus on prevention. This involves ongoing training for development teams, strict adherence to industry standards, detailed product requirements, and continuous process improvement.&nbsp;



By investing resources in preventing defects from the outset, organizations can significantly reduce the occurrence of quality issues, minimizing downstream costs associated with fixing defects.



<h3 id="h-2-early-detection">2. Early Detection:</h3>



An effective approach to controlling COQ is to invest in mechanisms for early detection. This includes implementing robust test design, creating comprehensive test cases, and establishing suitable testing environments.&nbsp;



By identifying and addressing defects at the earliest stages of the development process, organizations can curtail the impact of issues, ensuring that they are resolved before reaching the production stage.



<h3 id="h-3-continuous-improvement">3. Continuous Improvement:</h3>



Continuous improvement is a foundational strategy in COQ management. Regularly assessing and enhancing processes ensures that the likelihood of defects is continually reduced. This involves incorporating feedback, updating methodologies, and adopting best practices.&nbsp;



By embracing a culture of continuous improvement, organizations can not only prevent defects but also optimize their overall product quality over time.



<h3 id="h-4-customer-feedback-loop">4. Customer Feedback Loop:</h3>



Establishing a feedback loop with customers is a proactive strategy for managing COQ, particularly in identifying and addressing issues early in the product life cycle. By actively seeking input from end-users, organizations can uncover potential defects, understand user experiences, and promptly address concerns.&nbsp;



This customer-centric approach not only improves product quality but also mitigates external failure costs by resolving issues before they impact the broader user base.



<h2 id="h-coq-breakup">COQ Breakup</h2>



The Cost of Quality (COQ) represents the financial investment made to ensure a product aligns with customer expectations and meets high-quality standards. It goes beyond rectifying errors; it involves understanding market trends and discerning customer needs. This financial commitment is crucial for delivering high-quality products that satisfy customer requirements. We discussed the Cost of Quality breakup and formula above.



<h2 id="h-optimizing-the-cost-of-quality">Optimizing the Cost of Quality</h2>



To optimize the Cost of Quality (COQ) and improve overall software development quality, organizations can implement the following strategies:



<ul><li>Adoption of <a href="https://website.testsigma.com/blog/shift-left-testing-some-tools-that-can-help/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Shift Left Testing</a>: Conduct testing early in the development cycle to detect and rectify mistakes promptly. This proactive approach saves time, effort, and costs associated with fixing defects later in the process.</li></ul>



<ul><li>Stay Informed About Industry Standards: Keep abreast of industry standards and best practices, incorporating relevant ones into organizational processes. Stay updated with industry changes to ensure ongoing alignment.</li></ul>



<ul><li>Focused Testing: Concentrate testing efforts on relevant areas. Assess the necessity of activities such as Load Testing and testing with various databases and web browsers. Prioritize testing efforts based on project requirements. Automate tests where needed.</li></ul>



 <button class="btn bg-primary cta-btn" style="margin: auto"><a href="https://website.testsigma.com/automated-testing" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color:#fff">Learn more about automated testing</a></button> 



<ul><li>Address Lack of Domain Experts: Resolve the shortage of domain experts promptly. Consider hiring resources on a contract or consultancy basis. If this isn&#8217;t feasible, share detailed requirements and test scenarios for client approval.</li></ul>



<ul><li>Motivate Through Appreciation: Recognize and appreciate team members who consistently deliver quality work. Involve the team in process improvement initiatives following defect causal analysis. Encourage innovation and the sharing of new ideas.</li></ul>



<ul><li>Visible Commitment to Quality: Demonstrate a commitment to quality at every organizational level through actions, not just words. Streamline meetings by involving only relevant stakeholders and communicate quality goals consistently.</li></ul>



<h2 id="h-cost-of-quality-assessment">Cost of Quality Assessment</h2>



Cost of Quality Assessment is a critical process that involves a thorough evaluation of expenses related to both preventing and detecting defects. By analyzing the investments made in <a href="https://website.testsigma.com/blog/software-quality-management/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quality management</a>, organizations gain valuable insights into the effectiveness of their processes. This assessment allows for informed decision-making, guiding improvements that can significantly enhance the overall quality of software products.



The evaluation covers various aspects, including prevention costs (investments in activities to avoid defects) and detection costs (investments in activities to identify defects). By understanding the balance and effectiveness of these investments, organizations can optimize their approach to quality management.&nbsp;



This not only helps in addressing current issues but also guides future strategies, fostering a culture of continuous improvement in software development practices. Ultimately, the Cost of Quality Assessment plays a pivotal role in ensuring the delivery of high-quality software products to meet customer expectations and industry standards.



<h2 id="h-cost-of-quality-reporting">Cost of Quality Reporting</h2>



Cost of Quality Reporting is about sharing a clear breakdown of the expenses linked to managing software quality. By openly communicating these costs, organizations enable better decision-making.&nbsp;



This transparency helps allocate resources wisely, leading to process improvements, minimized waste, and an overall enhancement of software quality. In simpler terms, reporting on the cost of quality provides valuable insights for making informed decisions and improving how software is developed and maintained.



<h2 id="h-business-value-of-software-testing">Business value of software testing:</h2>



<a href="https://website.testsigma.com/guides/software-testing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Software testing</a> is valuable because it helps find and fix problems in the software, preventing issues from reaching users. This not only improves customer satisfaction but also protects the organization&#8217;s reputation and contributes to long-term success in a competitive market. In simpler terms, testing ensures the software works well, making customers happy and keeping the company competitive and trustworthy.



<h2 id="h-conclusion">Conclusion</h2>



The business value of software testing lies in its ability to find and fix problems, preventing issues from reaching users and ensuring customer satisfaction. In today&#8217;s competitive market, prioritizing software quality is not just a necessity but also a strategic investment that protects the organization&#8217;s reputation and contributes to long-term success.



<h2 id="h-frequently-asked-question">Frequently Asked Question</h2>



<h3 id="h-what-is-the-difference-between-coq-and-copq">What is the difference between Coq and COPQ?</h3>



The Cost of Quality (COQ) includes both the Cost of Good Quality (CoGQ) and the Cost of Poor Quality (COPQ). While COGQ involves strategic investment in IT product development, COPQ encompasses costs incurred due to defects and quality issues in a product or service, covering both internal and external failures.

What is the cost of software quality in Software Testing

What is the cost of software quality in Software Testing?

Prompt Engineering for Testers: Unleashing the Power of LLMs

??‍? Introduction: Greetings to all the wonderful people out there! I am delighted to introduce myself as Vijayaraghavan, but you can simply call me Vijay. I have the privilege of working as a Quality Automation Specialist at NatWest Group.



??‍? What an incredible year it has been for me, both personally and professionally! I started by attending some amazing conferences like TestFlix, Worqference, and Qonfx where I had the opportunity to learn and network with industry experts. And guess what? The year ended on a high note as I was invited to be a speaker at AZConf, Asia&#8217;s largest Cloud &amp;amp; AI Conference. It has truly been a journey of growth and achievement that I will always cherish! In my Personal life, Have been promoted to a father ?‍?‍?



&nbsp;? One of the most significant meetups I attended this year was the Rave Test Party (RTP) Chennai meet-up. It was an incredible opportunity for me to engage in meaningful conversations and coordinate with my mentors. The Selector Hub tool list has been incredibly helpful in expanding my knowledge. Additionally, having the opportunity to meet and interact with testing superstars in person is an experience that I will forever cherish and hold dear.



? Embracing new technologies is crucial in today&#8217;s fast-paced world. During my learning journey, I had the opportunity to gain valuable insights and skills, such as attending a Terraform Bootcamp. Additionally, I completed certifications like Safe Agilist 6 and the AWS Solution Architect Associate exam. These experiences have enhanced my knowledge and prepared me to tackle innovative challenges in the ever-evolving tech landscape.



??‍?‍?? Community collaboration is a powerful force that allows us to make a significant impact. By actively engaging with different communities, such as through volunteering with AWS UG MDU and AWS UG NCR, we not only expand our networks but also contribute to the betterment of society. It is an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and collectively work towards creating positive change.



?&nbsp; Attending both virtual and in-person conferences offers a great opportunity to expand your knowledge and network. By participating in virtual conferences such as TestFlix, Qonfx, and Worqference, you have the chance to not only secure a respectable position on the leaderboard but also emerge as a winner in social contests. It&#8217;s an exciting way to make meaningful connections and showcase your expertise. Had the privilege of speaking about Amazon Rekognition, a groundbreaking AWS service for visual analysis, at Asia&#8217;s most prestigious cloud and AI conference.



? Recognizing the value of continuous learning, I&#8217;m diligently participating in the 12-Week AWS Challenge Workshop and the 30 Days of JavaScript Challenge to enhance my skills and knowledge.



? This year, I embarked on a journey of exploration, discovering innovative tools like <a href="https://website.testsigma.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Testsigma</a>, Browser Stack, SelectorHub, and Pynt. I&#8217;m thrilled to share my experiences and insights through videos on my YouTube channel.



? Thank you for your patience and for taking the time to read my content. I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year filled with joy, laughter, and love. May this festive season bring you closer to your loved ones and may the New Year usher in new beginnings and endless possibilities.☃︎??❄️☃️??&nbsp;&nbsp;



&#8212;



Thanks &amp; Regards



Vijay 🙂

QA Chronicles A Tester's Reflections Of The Year

QA Chronicles A Tester’s Reflections Of The Year

Dear Community,



As a tester, this year has been a unique journey for me—one filled with victories, setbacks, and invaluable lessons.



Let&#8217;s start with the wins:



<ul><li>1. <a href="https://events.diversityq.com/EN/WITSummit_AwardsAsia2023/shortlist" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">WIT Asia Next Generation Leader of the Year</a> Finalist Award: It&#8217;s an honor to be recognized among exceptional talents shaping the future.</li><li>2. Nomination for <a href="https://womenawards.globant.com/2023/RisingStar/PrachiDahibhate" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">Globant Rising Star Award</a>: Being considered for this prestigious award is humbling and motivating.</li><li>3. Selected for BrowserStack Champion program: Joining a program that champions quality testing has been incredibly rewarding.</li><li>4. Selected for <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-cF83mz9atI" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">Selectorshub Ambassador Program</a>: This opportunity to represent innovative tools is both exciting and fulfilling.</li><li>5. Surpassed 15k+ followers on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/prachi-dahibhate-testing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LinkedIn </a>&amp; 1.8k on <a href="https://twitter.com/DahibhatePrachi" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Twitter</a>: Building a strong network within the testing community has been enriching.</li></ul>



Now, onto the flip side—the fails and bug tales:



This year wasn&#8217;t without its challenges. One of the notable failures I encountered was overlooking a critical edge case scenario in an e-commerce platform I was testing. I missed testing the checkout process with a specific combination of discount codes and payment methods, which led to a situation where users couldn&#8217;t apply certain discounts when using a particular payment gateway. It taught me the importance of thorough test planning and considering diverse user journeys. As for bug tales, there was this intriguing incident where a seemingly minor UI change caused a cascade of issues across various devices and browsers. What appeared as a simple adjustment in button placement resulted in functionality glitches, especially on older versions of certain browsers. It emphasized the necessity of comprehensive cross-browser and cross-device testing, even for seemingly small changes. My biggest learning from these experiences has been the significance of collaboration and communication. Engaging with developers, designers, and product managers early in the development cycle helped in better understanding requirements and identifying potential pitfalls. Building strong communication channels not only improved the testing process but also fostered a culture of shared responsibility for product quality. On a personal note, while these failures and bug tales might have been challenging, they&#8217;ve been invaluable in shaping my growth as a tester, reinforcing the importance of attention to detail, thorough testing methodologies, and effective collaboration within a team. Testing often involves navigating through uncertainties and unexpected scenarios. Staying flexible and open to learning from failures has been crucial in refining my approach as a tester. In the community, I&#8217;ve strived to share these experiences, posting regularly to contribute to our collective learning and growth.



Looking forward to more challenges and victories in the coming year!

My Wins, Fails, and Bug Tales A Year of Growth and Learning