What is a QA Tester? And Why You Should Know About It

In software development, the role of a Quality Assurance (QA) Tester is a pivotal guardian of product integrity and user experience. But what exactly does a QA Tester do? At its core, a QA Tester meticulously assesses software applications to identify defects, glitches, or discrepancies that could impede functionality or user satisfaction. They scrutinize every aspect of a program, from its functionality and performance to its compatibility and security, ensuring that the end product meets the highest quality standards. This role demands a keen eye for detail, analytical prowess, and a passion for problem-solving. Entry-level QA Testers can expect a competitive salary, typically $50,000 to $70,000 annually, depending on location and industry.

Types of QA Testers

A Functional QA Tester is a professional responsible for evaluating software applications to ensure they meet the specified functional requirements. They focus on testing the core functionalities of a software product to verify that it behaves according to expectations and performs its intended tasks accurately. Functional QA Testers meticulously assess features, user interfaces, and system interactions to identify any deviations from the desired behavior or potential defects.

On the other hand, the opposite of a Functional QA Tester could be considered a Technical QA Tester. While Functional QA Testers focus on the core functionalities of a software application, Technical QA Testers concentrate on aspects beyond basic functionality, such as performance, reliability, usability, and security. Technical testing aims to assess how well a system performs under various conditions and environments, ensuring that it meets quality standards in terms of responsiveness, scalability, accessibility, and resilience to potential threats. These testers evaluate the overall user experience and system behavior under stress, load, or adverse conditions, aiming to enhance the software’s performance and user satisfaction.

Functional testing requires less technical knowledge compared to other types of testing because it primarily focuses on verifying whether a software application meets its functional requirements. Unlike technical, performance or security testing, which often involve complex technical setups and specialized tools, functional testing typically involves straightforward scenarios and user interactions that can be easily understood and executed by testers without extensive technical expertise.

How to Become a QA Tester

Becoming a QA Tester requires a blend of technical skills and theoretical knowledge. While formal education in computer science or a related field can be advantageous, it’s not always a prerequisite. Many aspiring QA Testers opt to pursue specialized courses or certifications to hone their skills and enhance their employability. Certifications such as ISTQB (International Software Testing Qualifications Board) or a QA BootCamp to equip individuals with the necessary tools and techniques to excel in this role.

One critical skill of a tester is writing test scripts. There are many methods to write test scripts. Gherkin is a simple, human-readable language used to describe test scenarios, particularly in behavior-driven development (BDD). Here’s how the example test script for functional testing of a login feature could be written in Gherkin format:

Feature: Login Functionality Verification
As a user
I want to be able to log in to the application
So that I can access my account and use its features

Scenario: Successful Login
Given I am on the login page of the application
When I enter valid credentials
And I click on the “Login” button
Then I should be redirected to the dashboard or home page
And I should see my username or profile picture displayed
And I should not see any error messages

Scenario: Unsuccessful Login (Invalid Credentials)
Given I am on the login page of the application
When I enter invalid credentials
And I click on the “Login” button
Then I should stay on the login page
And I should see an error message indicating login failure

In this Gherkin script:

• Each scenario represents a specific test case, describing a particular behavior or outcome.
• The Given, When, Then, and And steps outline the sequence of actions and expected results.
• The scenarios are written in a user-centric language, making them easy to understand by stakeholders, developers, and testers alike.
• The scenarios cover both positive and negative test cases, verifying the behavior of the login feature under different conditions.

Easy enough right? Write the script, record it in a lifecycle application management system, test the system, and report your findings.

Transitioning from Teacher to Tester

Transitioning from a career in education to QA testing may seem like a leap, but the skills acquired in teaching can prove invaluable in this domain. Educators possess strong communication skills, patience, and the ability to adapt to diverse learning styles – traits that are equally beneficial in QA testing. Moreover, educators often excel in problem-solving and critical thinking, essential attributes for identifying and resolving software defects. By leveraging their pedagogical expertise and embracing the principles of continuous learning, educators can seamlessly transition into the dynamic world of QA testing.

Morever what really makes the transition easy…learning agility. Learning agility, the ability to quickly learn and adapt to new situations, technologies, and environments, is indispensable in a QA testing career for several reasons. The field of software development is constantly evolving, with new technologies, methodologies, and tools emerging regularly. QA testers need to stay updated with these advancements to effectively test modern applications. Learning agility enables testers to swiftly grasp new concepts, techniques, and tools, allowing them to stay relevant in a rapidly changing industry. Software projects vary in complexity, scope, and requirements. QA testers often encounter diverse challenges and scenarios, ranging from testing web applications to mobile apps, from manual testing to automated testing, and from functional testing to performance testing. Learning agility equips testers with the flexibility to adapt their testing approaches and strategies to suit the unique demands of each project, ensuring thorough and effective testing regardless of the context.

Conclusion

Despite the competitive landscape, entering the field of QA testing with minimal experience is not insurmountable. Many companies offer entry-level positions or internships tailored to individuals with limited industry exposure. These opportunities serve as invaluable stepping stones, providing hands-on experience and mentorship from seasoned professionals. Additionally, aspiring QA Testers can showcase their proficiency through personal projects, freelancing gigs, or participation in open-source initiatives. Building a robust portfolio and staying abreast of industry trends through online forums or professional networks can further enhance one’s chances of securing a foothold in this rewarding career path. With determination, dedication, and a commitment to quality, aspiring QA Testers can embark on a fulfilling journey towards becoming indispensable guardians of digital excellence.