How can Quality Assurance professionals earn certification?

From my experience, the wealth of extensive knowledge acquired from the certification journey is the key benefit. The rigorous training on QA processes during certification can boost confidence in your skills and knowledge, which can positively impact job performance. Other key benefits from my perspective are: - Compliance with Industry standards and best practices - Global Recognition - Networking and knowledge-sharing opportunities - Adaptability to industry trends and technological advancements It's essential to understand that the QA certification is just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to growing in your career. Practical experiences, continuous learning, and keeping up to date with industry trends are also equally important.

The biggest benefit I see from a certification is that it will put a stamp of authority on your knowledge. While you may be excellent with your skills the moment you get certified you will get noticed.

My perspective on certification diverges from the conventional view. Many firms emphasize certificates for candidate selection or task assignment. However, I view certification as a learning opportunity rather than a means to an end. The learning process, not the certification itself, is my focus. Pursuing certification encourages structured learning, setting benchmarks that drive personal growth. In QA, or any discipline, identify what you want to learn and specialize in. Certify in that area to expand your knowledge. Always evaluate the relevance of the subject to you before pursuing certification. Certification, in my view, is not just a professional credential but a journey of continuous learning and skill enhancement.

Here are some industry-recognised structured QA and Testing certifications - Certified Software Tester - Foundation Level (CSTFL) - Certified Software Tester – Intermediate Level (CSTIL) - Certified Software Testing Manager (CSTM) - Certified Software Test Professional Associate Level - Certified Software Test Professional Practitioner Level - Certified Software Test Professional Master Level - Certified Software Quality Manager (CSQM) - Certified Tester Advanced Level Test Analyst (CTAL-TA) - Certified Tester Advanced Level Test Manager (CTAL-TM)

ISTQB (International Software Testing Qualifications Board): Certification Levels: Foundation Level Advanced Level (Test Manager, Test Analyst, Technical Test Analyst) Expert Level Agile Tester Extension ISTQB Agile Tester Extension: This extension to the ISTQB Foundation Level is specifically designed for testers working in Agile environments. CSQA (Certified Software Quality Analyst): Certified Performance Testing Professional (CPTP): Certified Mobile App Professional (CMAP): Certified ScrumMaster (CSM): While not specific to testing, the CSM certification is valuable for testers working in Agile environments, as it provides a deep understanding of Scrum practices.

I highly recommend gaining a solid understanding of QA methodologies and applying them to real-life examples. Compare your current practices with established methodologies, discerning the correct approaches from any deviations. It is important to identify areas where you may have deviated from best practices and to comprehend the correct methods. Understanding this distinction helps you to pass certification exams.

There are some other certifications like Cloud Practitioner or DevOps which the QA professionals should consider to enhance their career