What do you do if stakeholders struggle to understand your software testing findings?

If stakeholders struggle to understand my software testing findings, I would: -->Clarify terminology and use plain language. -->Provide context around the findings. -->Use visual aids to illustrate key points. -->Break down complex concepts into simpler ones. -->Offer detailed explanations and engage in dialogue. -->Provide supplementary documentation for reference. -->Seek feedback for continuous improvement.

I stepped into Eircom’s ambitious project to bring TV to phone lines, finding it in disarray. After conducting a thorough gap analysis, I presented my findings to the board, using clear visuals and straightforward language to highlight key issues and opportunities. My approach turned complex data into actionable insights, facilitating a constructive discussion that set the project back on track. This experience wasn't just about fixing problems; it was about bridging gaps and aligning visions for a successful outcome.

In my experience, the use of visual aids works well. I present diagrams that clearly illustrate the pain points alongside recommendations or solutions to the problems. I make sure to list the risks involved and am always prepared to answer questions from the stakeholder. I have a way of making the stakeholder feel like they brought up the question for the first time, even though I have rehearsed the possible questions and scenarios based on my knowledge of each stakeholder in my team. Try it; it works.

I will Provide clear and concise explanations, using non-technical language, and offer visual aids such as charts or diagrams to help stakeholders grasp the findings effectively. Additionally, offer demonstrations or walkthroughs to illustrate the impact of the findings on the software's functionality.

Make sure you understand and have all the details of your findings. Know your Audience, whether they are techie, managerial or any other. Try to rephrase your findings accordingly to your audience. Make sure they know the objective & benefits of your findings.

In the Eircom project, I prioritized clarity by using a large, colour-coded grid to present testing findings to stakeholders. This grid, resembling a checkerboard, assigned red, amber, and green to each component, visually indicating risk levels. With minimal text, this approach transformed complex data into a simple, universally understandable format. The visual simplicity of the checkerboard effectively communicated where attention was needed, facilitating quick decision-making and alignment on priorities. This method demonstrated that sometimes, less is more, and a picture can indeed speak a thousand words, making it a powerful tool for clear, effective communication. Communicate and Eat your elephant one square at a time.

you can also use step by step method to write down your findings. Add examples, inputs, outputs, and reports. It can be like a story. Remember, if you want to convey a message, you need to be calm and repetitive according to their way of understanding.

Joining Eircom’s stagnant project, I immediately identified glaring issues: a 4-second channel change delay and only Standard Definition offerings, while competitors had moved to High Definition. These critical points, previously uncommunicated to the board, highlighted severe lapses in user experience and technological advancement. By presenting this evidence, alongside comparative data and visuals showing industry standards, I made a compelling case for urgent improvements. Addressing these findings head-on not only demonstrated the project's real state but also set a clear path forward, emphasizing the benefits of updating our systems to meet current standards. This approach turned overlooked details into catalysts for change.

Do ask for what they have understood. Ask for their feedback. Prepare a questionnaire to know about their understanding. if you are going to deliver similar things to same audience, prepare a format in which they understand most. Use it for future and keep modifying.