3 July 2024 Leave a comment QA
Transitioning into a software engineer in test (SET) role can be challenging, especially if your organization is not accustomed to involving QA early in the development stages. It’s crucial to communicate the value you bring to the table, not just in testing but in ensuring overall project success. This article provides strategies to help you convince project managers to include you from the project’s inception.
Understanding the Challenges
Project managers often view testing as a phase that comes after development. This perception can be difficult to change, especially if they believe that involving QA early would be a waste of time. However, the reality is that early QA involvement can identify potential issues before they become costly problems.
Strategies for Early QA Involvement
1. Sell the Value, Not the Process
Instead of selling “testing,” focus on the value that early QA involvement brings. This means emphasizing risk mitigation, improved project timelines, and cost savings. Highlight how your involvement can help foresee and address potential issues early, thereby reducing rework and improving the final product.
2. Identify and Track Gaps
- Find gaps in use cases/specifications: Every time you identify a missing or unconsidered situation, document it. Questions like “What happens when X?” can reveal overlooked scenarios.
- Track wasted time: Document instances where you had to find alternative ways to access fields or functionalities. This data can demonstrate the inefficiency caused by late involvement.
- Track avoidable problems: Keep a record of issues that could have been prevented with early QA input. This hard data can be compelling when arguing for earlier involvement.
3. Avoid Smugness
Always approach the conversation from a collaborative standpoint. Avoid “I told you so” comments, as they can breed resentment. Instead, focus on how early QA involvement benefits the entire team and the project’s success.
4. Use Management’s Language
Managers often think in terms of risks and costs. Frame your arguments around these concepts. For instance, you can present scenarios showing the potential risks and costs associated with late QA involvement versus early involvement.
5. Build Trust Over Time
Gaining trust may take time, especially with traditional-minded project managers. Use every opportunity to demonstrate how your early involvement can save time and money in the long run. Track your progress and report on the benefits regularly.
Leveraging No-Code Test Automation Tools
Tools like Repeato can streamline the testing process, making it easier to integrate QA early in the development cycle. Repeato, a no-code test automation tool for iOS and Android, allows you to create, run, and maintain automated tests quickly and efficiently. Its computer vision and AI-based approach ensures that tests are robust and easy to edit, providing a seamless experience for both developers and QA engineers.
By using Repeato, you can demonstrate the effectiveness of early testing and show tangible improvements in the development process. This can make it easier to convince project managers of the value of early QA involvement.
Conclusion
Convincing project managers to involve QA early in the development process is not an overnight task. It requires a strategic approach, clear communication, and consistent demonstration of value. By following these strategies and leveraging tools like Repeato, you can make a compelling case for early QA involvement, ultimately leading to better project outcomes.
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