Quality assurance software testers have an essential role to play in the software development process. Becoming a quality assurance tester is one thing, and having exceptional skills is another. If you want to become a QA professional, you have to understand the importance of technical education and on-the-job training. It is a demanding profession. Only if you have dedication, commitment, and patience you can achieve success in your career. Most institutes that provide ensure proper training so that you can dive into the world of quality assurance like never before.
Having the right blend of technical knowledge and industry experience can help you better understand this profession. Learning about the role and responsibility of a quality assurance professional and the steps to becoming one will help you make a well-informed decision. While the career seems exciting, you can achieve success only if you have the right skills and knowledge.
What exactly does a quality assurance tester mean?
The role of quality assurance is of great importance in the software development lifecycle. Such a professional works to maintain and establish specific standards and requirements in different fields like web platforms, software development, communication networks, and digital products. They are also responsible for identifying errors, sources and flaws and providing practical solutions immediately. In this position, they also work with developers to enhance the productivity, functionality and effectiveness of the product quality and the workplace.
People often confuse software quality assurance testing with quality control testing. However, there is a difference between the two. Quality controls refer to identifying the issues and flaws in the products that have been manufactured and delivered to customers. On the other hand, quality assurance is all about the internal development process of software apps and products before they are developed and released to the end-users.
What Do Software Quality Assurance Professionals Do?
A software quality assurance professional is responsible for monitoring and overseeing all stages of designing and implementing a product to make sure laid down standards are met. Their role is crucial and improves the software development process by increasing quality and effectiveness and identifying flaws and issues at the right stage. Also, they are expected to share feedback and issues between QA team members, stakeholders, and developers. The duties of a software QA professional can be diverse and depends on the kind of project they are doing. Listed below is a list of some of the typical duties of a software QA professional.
- Identifying and isolating failures and errors
- Documenting test results and progress
- Performing manual testing
- Driving innovation and efficiency
- Designing test plans
- Researching new technologies and testing processes
- Finding software glitches and bugs
- Reviewing feedback and user interfaces
- Setting quality standards
- Calculating risk
- Analyzing and understanding product features
- Writing code for automated tests
- Designing procedures for product testing
There are different types of testing suited to diverse projects. However, an experienced software quality assurance tester should have expertise in all. These forms of QA tests include the following:
- Regression testing
- Usability testing
- Compatibility testing
- Load testing
- Performance testing
- Functionality testing
- Security testing
If you think you can carve out a niche in this field, you might wonder how to Become A Software Quality Assurance professional. Read on.
Here are a few steps to kick start your career as a QA professional.
Enrol in an institute
Even if you know about QA in software, enrolling with an institute can help you earn additional certification. It should be your first step towards a career in this profession. You have to figure out which type of certification or degree you want. Usually, software quality assurance testers' profile needs a minimum of a certificate. If you have other computer science and engineering degrees, it is an added advantage. Do proper research and find out about the institutes offering training to aspiring candidates. QABATraining is one institute that prepares aspiring software quality assurance professionals for this competitive industry.
Complete your Education
While additional certification courses can help you embark on your journey in this field, choosing an excellent major can do wonders for your career. Depending on the industry you want to work in, choose a relevant major from that area. For instance, if you wish to work as a software tester, consider having a bachelor's degree in math, engineering, or computer science.
While you are in an institute or college, keep in mind that it is an excellent opportunity to earn qualifications and network. Networking with your instructors and classmates is essential for future collaboration and employment opportunities.
Internship Matters!
What you learn during your internship shapes your future. An internship is a program designed to give students a professional learning experience and understanding with companies in the field. Some positions are unpaid, and some are paid. You can make the decision on the basis of your preference. And the internship duration can last between a few months and a year. Internship programs make for an excellent opportunity for aspiring quality assurance professionals to build good resumes and work in a company.
Apply for Jobs.
Once you have met all educational requirements and gained experience, you are all set to apply for quality assurance testing jobs. Look for job openings in an organization and industry that you think is best for you. Make sure you create a resume and covering letter with the job description for the position you have in mind. To find professional recommendations and openings, you can narrow your search based on what employers offer regarding benefits and salary and where you want to live.
Quality assurance testing is a promising profession if you have the required skills and knowledge. Some institutes like QABATraining provide Quality Assurance Training and Placement New Jersey but also help you prepare for the interview and create a resume and covering letter. The decision you will make to start your career will reap benefits in future. So, make a smart one and enrol for the QA training course right away.