Passion for Testing
Regardless
of what some may think, software testers need strong analytical and problem
solving skills. But what is most essential for a great tester is the passion
for testing. It is well quoted “if you do
not like testing your product, most likely your customer won’t like testing it
either”. Passion for testing is nothing but the passion for breaking
things. Doesn’t that sound good enough to make testing fun and challenging?
Along with passion there are some little
things that makes one an excellent tester. Your desire and ability to learn
matters- be a continuous learner. Your ability to contribute in the project and
excel in your work depends on keeping up with the ever increasing knowledge
base and ever expanding skill set. And
always be prepared and confident to apply your knowledge and skill in your work
whenever the situation demands.
Developing
a critical mindset is also important for a good tester. Never ever assume
things, but always question. Check everything and expect the unexpected- it never
hurts to be a little pessimistic! Always think of “what-if” scenarios. Be a
perfectionist and demand for better product. A common statement always said to
a tester is “test from the customer point
of view”. But I would suggest a tester to consider himself as the customer
who paid for the product. You will definitely end up finding more bugs!
No
doubt, the aim of testing is to find defects. But the way you report the bug is
also important. A bug
report should be an accurate, concise, thoroughly-edited, well-conceived, high
quality technical document. Also, master the skill of writing a diplomatic bug
report. You need to be politely blunt- tell people what you think – tactfully.
And most importantly never be hesitant to admit your mistakes.
A
tester is the first person who should realize the importance of testing and
create this awareness among others.
You
should understand that testing is the first step towards quality. High quality
products are recognized and appreciated everywhere. It is always obvious that
quality and productivity go hand in hand. Higher quality leads to higher
productivity. So dear testers, you are the one who can make the difference.
So
next time, the moment you get an application to test, start your treasure hunt.
The treasure of bugs is always hidden and will appear at places where you do
not see them easily. Make bug hunting a fun. I recently got a chance to read an incident
narrated by a passionate tester who broke an ATM machine when he went to
withdraw money. Out of his curiosity he inserted his expired card into the
machine and the machine hanged- forever. Though the fellow users were
frustrated and disgusted, the tester in him was delighted because he was
successful in breaking the machine! Testing was no longer his career, but has
become his habit. Once you cultivate this habit in you, you become an excellent
tester no matter who says what.
