TestNigeria 3.0 Conference

On September 27, 2024, the TestNigeria 3.0 conference took place at the Radisson Blu in Ikeja, Lagos, hosted by the Nigerian Software Qualification Board (NGSTQB).

The event brought together a diverse group of attendees, including testing professionals, project managers, senior executives, and NITDA directors, all passionate about enhancing Nigeria's software quality landscape. The day was filled with engaging discussions and a shared recognition of Nigeria's rapidly expanding tech ecosystem, which, while full of potential, faces significant challenges in software quality and user experience.

Here are Testing Academy's five key takeaways from the conference:

1. Top-Down Approach for Quality Improvement: It was agreed that within all organisations, enhancing software quality and user experience requires a top-down approach, emphasizing the need for senior leadership to be actively involved in overseeing product quality. The consensus highlighted the disconnect that arises when quality assurance responsibilities are relegated to middle management without regular strategic oversight. A pivotal question emerged: Are CTOs and CIOs setting clear quality goals and tracking their progress?
2. Quality Coaching for Leadership: A pressing need for software testing coaching at the leadership level was identified. Enhancing CTOs, CIOs and other Tech leaders' understanding of software testing principles is essential and will lead to more informed decision-making regarding testing initiatives, it will also drive improvements in overall testing processes. The importance of accountability in leadership roles was also highlighted. When leaders take responsibility for quality, it sets a standard for the entire team. The executives present recognized that a strong reputation for delivering high-quality software solutions is directly tied to leadership's active engagement in quality assurance practices.
3. Local In-House Testing Teams: The prevalence of poor-quality software among many organizations was in part attributed to the lack of dedicated Quality Assurance (QA) teams for applications delivered by international vendors. While these solutions may initially perform well, they often encounter challenges over time due to necessary updates, upgrades, integrations, and evolving requirements. Unfortunately, by this point, there are typically no testers available who possess the necessary knowledge of the solutions, and the absence of a robust testing regime means that essential fixes are poorly managed. To enhance software quality, organizations must take intentional and proactive steps to establish their QA and support teams. Building these teams is not a quick process; it necessitates strategic planning, investment, and a commitment to cultivating the requisite skills and expertise over time.
4. Impact of Skilled Labor Emigration: The skill drain from international emigration was recognized as a significant challenge, leaving a void in application delivery and support teams within organizations.
5. Cybersecurity Disconnect: We discussed the ongoing cybersecurity paradox—despite general awareness of basic cybersecurity principles, many organizations struggle with breaches. This disconnect between knowledge and action highlights the need for businesses to implement robust security measures beyond mere compliance.

Encouragingly, many managers expressed a willingness to confront these challenges head-on. The overwhelming feedback from the event emphasized the importance of collaboration and commitment to raising technology quality standards across the board. This can be achieved through empowerment, investment in skills and knowledge, and guidance from regulatory bodies.

At Testing Academy, we are excited to support organizations in their journey toward strategic improvement initiatives that will address these pressing challenges and elevate software quality standards in Nigeria.

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