4 Ways to Better Test Modern Software
Testing isn’t dead.
Before we discuss anything else, let’s make sure we get that point straight. Even if automation, artificial intelligence, the speed that agile brings, and everything else that’s been introduced within the software industry has changed how we test (and the tester’s role), that doesn’t mean testing’s not worth your time. In fact, with current customer expectations, it might be more important than ever.
If you don’t adapt, yes, it might be hard to both find and hang on to work. But according to Jason Arbon, the founder of Appdiff, testers can smartly work with the new technology that’s out there to better test software and bring even greater value to the entire team.
“Human testers working alongside smart machines can certainly test modern software in a better way than is done today,” he tells StickyMinds. “The key is to let the machines do what they’re good at and let the humans leverage their creativity and judgment.”
So, where do you start? Here are four ways that modern human testers can improve their testing prowess and make themselves invaluable:
- Pass off the tedious work: If your testing requires near endless taps, swipes, and other various inputs, allow your automation or AI to take care of it. The simple, yet time-intensive activities are better left to machines.
- Train the AI: By recording human testing activity, you can create records of inputs and outputs that can help your non-human testing solution perform actions that were otherwise done by manual testers.
- Carve out time to learn new things: Look, it’s hard to find time during a regular work week to learn new skills or read up on all the latest trends. But if you don’t quite understand agile or how to test future Internet of Things devices, now’s the time to better yourself. Part of becoming invaluable as a tester is staying one step ahead of those around you.
- Maintain quality in the face of speed: Agile has made everything a little bit faster, and as previously discussed, users expect mobile releases faster and more buttoned-up than ever. So even if you’re expected to hit deadlines early or turn around projects faster than before, know that the quality standards still apply. Whether it be AI, automation, or your own human testing, don’t cut corners.
Don’t let the talk of testing’s demise put you down: There will continue to be an important place for testers within a software team. Just make sure you understand how the industry has changed and where you can fit within it.
