Twelve-Step Program for a Better Test Process

Judy McKay
Independent Contractor

Background

We can't make software better by testing the quality into it. However, if we manage our testing processes and educate the rest of the team about what it takes to make better software, we can make a difference. First, we have to get the testing world under control and work to reasonable expectations; then, we can spread the word to the rest of the organization. Judy McKay describes how to gain control of the test process—while still getting the real work done—and shares ways to educate the rest of the team about quality awareness. Using Judy's twelve-step program, test managers and testers will regain their sanity as they take control of the testing workflow and share it with the project team. By allowing developers to become part of your world, quality assurance can become a reality in your organization.

Key Concepts:

•  Assess test process and workflow problems
•  Implement a graduated improvement plan based on the maturity of your organization
•  Gain control of testing while still getting the work done

Outline:

• Why do we need to have a strategy
• What are the 12 easy steps
• Define the level of control we need
• Find the requirements
• Develop the feature hierarchy
• Evaluate and assign risk
• Create test cases
• Create test data
• Add automation
• Plan the test execution
• Determine the schedule time
• Execute the tests
• Determine risk mitigation
• Report the results
• All processes need time to mature – pick your battles

Biography

Judy McKay has spent the last 20 years working in the high tech industry with particular focus on software quality assurance. She has managed departments encompassing all aspects of the software lifecycle including requirements design and analysis, software development, database design, software quality assurance, software testing, technical support, professional services, configuration management, technical publications and software licensing. Her career has spanned across commercial software companies, aerospace, foreign-owned R&D and various Internet companies.