Imagine focusing on prioritized business requirements at the software layer closest to where those business items are implemented. Writing just one check—that is, a programmed verification—per business requirement makes for simple, focused checks, supporting stronger, faster quality around the team.

People are less likely to express thanks or appreciation at work than anyplace else. But studies suggest that employees who feel appreciated are more productive and loyal, so it's worth making an effort. The intriguing bit? It's a win-win experience—when you appreciate someone, you feel good, too.

Pamela Gillaspie has been experimenting with actually breaking software: installing or operating respectable software in a way that renders it unusable. She says testing beyond what your product is strictly responsible for can save your company many support cases—and the goodwill of your users.