How to Build a Career in the Software Testing?

Did you know that 99% of software projects are tested before release? This essential step ensures that programs/applications perform as expected and provide a consistent user experience. If you have a knack for finding problems and brainstorming solutions, then we have the ideal career choice for you, i.e. Software Testing. The career path not only equips you with great knowledge but also makes you an expert tester.

We are here to help you grow in Software testing and that’s why we hosted a dedicated QA webinar with industry experts that will teach you the necessary steps to become a QA engineer or tester. We will also discuss other important aspects of the QA industry that you should know before starting your career.?

What Is Software Testing?

Software testing is a method used to determine the functionality of a software application. The process verifies whether the software meets the specified criteria or not and ensures it is free of bugs. The aim of testing is to ensure that the software works smoothly and provides a great user experience.

In this process, the tester experiments with multiple scenarios and later shares them with the developers for resolution. For your better understanding, let’s check out some examples mentioned below:

1. The tester performs various login attempts, such as using incorrect passwords and usernames, to uncover security vulnerabilities. They then document their findings and share them with the developers for resolution.
2. During the testing of a new shopping cart feature, the tester adds, removes, and modifies items to uncover potential bugs. After noting each issue, they discuss these scenarios with the developers to ensure all problems are addressed.
3. The tester tests different payment gateway integrations by conducting test transactions with various card types and currencies. Any inconsistencies or failures are reported to the developers for rectification.

Types of Software Testing

There are several software testing types, which are categorized below:

1. Manual Testing:

Manual Testing is the essential and fundamental process in the SDLC (Software Development Life Cycle). In this process, human testers execute the test cases without using the automated tools. Sometimes, it also requires the testers to play the role of end-users to ensure the proper working of the application features.?

There is no harm in saying that manual testing is crucial because it helps to detect those errors that automation testing might miss in the loop. Overall, it is better to say that if you want to master automation testing in the future, you should learn manual testing first.?

• Functional Testing

Functional testing involves an application’s functionality by verifying each function of a software or application operates in conformance with the required specifications. In functional testing, testers are responsible for checking all the functionalities and features of an application, so it will not ruin the end user experience.?

This automation testing approach focuses on the system’s core features, user-friendliness, accessibility, and related elements. Functional testing consists of unit testing, integration testing, smoke testing, and user acceptability testing.

Suppose as a Tester, you are doing functional testing of an E-commerce platform application like Amazon. This means you will test all of its functionality to provide a better end-user experience. Now, you will check the functionality of this application, like whether the purchase cart, payment modes, and search bar are working properly or not.?

• Non-functional Testing

Non-functional testing focuses on product performance rather than functionality. This testing covers evaluating an application’s various non-functional components, such as usability, performance, and dependability.

Non-functional testing usually comes after functional testing, as it makes sense to ensure that the product works as intended before evaluating its performance.

Some of the most common types of non-functional testing are performance testing, reliability testing, security testing, load testing, scalability testing, compatibility testing, and so on.?

Let’s take the same example mentioned above to understand the usage of non-functional testing. In this scenario, testers will test the UI (user interface) and dashboard of the application to provide a top-notch experience to the customers.?

2. Automation Testing

Automation testing is the modern approach that uses scripts and tools to perform the testing procedure. There is a point that you must note: Manual testing is also involved in automation testing because there is a team of experts who write test scripts to automate the testing tasks.?

This testing type is helpful for QA engineers who are required to perform large-scale testing and repetitive tasks. This approach undoubtedly helps to save time and reduce the company’s costs by minimizing manual efforts. It involves writing test scripts that can be used repeatedly, which makes it perfect for load testing, performance testing, and regression testing.?

One of the most popular examples of automation testing is the one that you perform while working on CRM software. Salesforce Testing is similar to testing in that testers work on the Salesforce platform. This process involves testing customized Salesforce functionalities and configurations. During Salesforce testing, testers ensure that Salesforce integrations, customizations, and third-party applications work correctly and meet specific business requirements.?

Before we move ahead towards our next topic, here is a little secret: Manual testing is the great headstart to becoming proficient in automation testing. Whether it is manual or automation, our experts cover every information that will help you build your skills and career. So, don’t wait, catch on that part of our webinar to learn all about it.?

Skills Required to Become a Software Tester

Knowledge alone will not lead you to higher positions. You should learn several soft and technical skills because good communication and collaboration are equally important in the testing field.

1. Technical Skills

When you decide to enter the IT sector as a tester, it is important to have some technical skills to better understand tech problems.?

• Testing Fundamentals:

Thorough understanding of basic testing principles, methodologies, and best practices for ensuring software quality.

• Test Automation

Capable of employing tools and frameworks to automate repetitive testing operations, enhancing productivity and test coverage.

• Knowledge of the SDLC (Software Development Life Cycle)

Understands the various stages of software development, from planning and design to deployment and maintenance, and how they affect testing methods.

• SQL Skills

Proficient in SQL querying, data integrity validation, and backend testing support.

• API Testing

Experienced in testing APIs to ensure they work properly, handle a variety of inputs, and fulfill performance requirements.

2. Soft Skills

Now that we have discussed the technical skills, let’s check out the software skills required to become an efficient tester.?

• Problem Solving and Analytical Thinking

It shows the ability to analyze the complexity of issues, find the root causes of bugs and develop customized solutions effectively.?

• Attention to Detail

Testers must ensure the accuracy of their work. They are required to check all aspects that require checking to prevent errors and deliver high-quality results.?

• Collaboration?

They should have collaborative skills because it is important for them to work in a team. It is essential for them to value others’ perspectives while achieving common goals.?

• Adaptability and Learning Agility

Quickly adjusts to new situations and technologies, continually seeking to learn and develop in a fast-changing world.

Our industry experts explained the hidden skills that interviewers look for in candidates. They provide the insider knowledge that will set you apart from other applicants.?

How Can You Become a Software Tester?

Master the art of software testing by carefully following the provided process.

Check out the process