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Ever found yourself frustrated with software glitches that disrupt your online experience?
Imagine navigating a website, and a mysterious bug throws a curveball into your usual flow. What if you could be the detective solving these digital mysteries?
I have 5 years experience in QA working for companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and Nintendo, so let me help you discover the essential steps to becoming a successful quality assurance (QA) tester.
Did you know?
I. Role and Impact
A QA tester's careful work directly affects how good the final product is, making sure users have a problem-free experience.
QA testers:
Test software, hardware, apps, games, etc. This is highly repetitious work requiring focus and attention to detail.
Fix issues that affect the functionality of the product. This could be easy or require the support of other teams.
Make sure everything is okay. They give the final green light that a product is ready for public release.
QA testers ensure that users can trust the products they use. In the world of software, a QA tester is like a detective, making sure everything is safe and reliable.
Quiz
A QA tester would do which of the following? Select all that apply:
QA testing is repetitive work. For example, a tester would need to play a level of a video game multiple times and test every possible scenario making sure it functions correctly. If any bugs are found, the tester would include the information of level, location, buttons used, etc. in a report to the developers for a fix. Writing a Frequently Asked Questions page might be a later duty, but it isn't a primary responsibility of the QA tester.
II. Education and Skills
While a specific degree or education is not required to start a career in QA testing, there are some basic skills that can come in handy:
problem-solving abilities
investigation skills
tech-savviness
Photo by sean Kong on UnsplashFor a career in QA testing, individuals should consider taking courses that provide a strong technical foundation. Examples of relevant classes include:
Mathematics
Computer science or programming
Software development
Communication skills
Information technology (IT) or computer engineering
QA tester certifications, such as the ISTQB (International Software Testing Qualifications Board) or the Certified Software Tester (CSTE), validate your expertise and proficiency in various testing methodologies.
These certifications not only enhance your credibility in the industry but also open doors to advanced career opportunities.
III. Practical Experience
Embarking on a journey to become a quality assurance (QA) tester involves gaining hands-on experience through various avenues.
When I first started, I was contracted as a game tester at Nintendo. This gave me the experience to move on to contracting at Amazon, performing QA on digital streaming services. Imagine getting paid to play games or watch movies all day!
To gain some relevant experience, try:
Internships and contract work: These structured experiences provide a professional setting to apply theoretical knowledge and understand the dynamics of QA testing in real-world scenarios.
Projects: Engaging in personal or collaborative projects offers the opportunity to tackle practical challenges, enhancing your problem-solving skills and deepening your understanding of QA processes.
Self-learning: Whether through online courses or personal projects, self-learning is invaluable for exploring specific areas of interest and staying updated on the latest industry trends.
Quiz
What are some characteristics that might make a good QA tester? Select all that apply:
All of these all traits are those you might find in a QA tester. An eye for detail helps spot errors. Tech-savviness in games, apps, etc., is especially desirable in software and hardware testing. QA often involves teams of people working on the same project, so you will need to communicate well. Thinking from different approaches helps find bugs/defects that might not even have been recognized during development,
Take Action
The dynamic QA testing field is ever-evolving, urging detectives to stay on their toes. Embrace the journey of continuous learning, whether through ongoing education, professional development, or staying attuned to emerging industry trends.
For more information on how to become a QA Tester:
This Byte has been authored by
Kevin Kepple
Grad Student | TA
MS