Higher or Lower? Tactics for Mastering Software Testing Estimations

Continuing my series on career growth and learning experiences, here’s another blog about another challenge I’ve faced in my career: planning and estimating testing efforts.

Maybe not in the early days, but certainly as your career in testing progresses, one thing you will be asked to do on a regular basis is estimate a testing effort. Now, this could be for a phase of testing (e.g. a UAT), or for an entire project testing effort.

Introduction

As a member of Generation X, I find myself reminiscing about the days when "The One" was Neo, dodging bullets in "The Matrix," and when I started my journey in software QA.

My first introduction to testing was through User Acceptance Testing (UAT) on a large accounting and reconciliation software project and user requirements. It did not take long for me to realise I had a knack for testing and working in that environment. I moved into testing full-time, spending over ten years with nFocus, working on projects that spanned from large-scale government IT projects and e-commerce to finance and construction/infrastructure. In these sectors, I sometimes worked as a lone Tester, while other times I was part of cross-skilled teams that delivered award-winning products.

Building Relationships in Consultancy

A vital part of consultancy work is building strong relationships with clients or project teams. One of the most rewarding aspects of this process is learning how to effectively address difficult or uncomfortable situations. Embracing this challenge is key to personal and professional growth.

Consultancy is dynamic and adaptive because it involves working with new individuals and loyal customers. Try viewing ‘difficult’ and ‘awkward’ situations as opportunities for creative problem-solving and innovative solutions for growth. The terms 'difficult' and 'awkward' can span a variety of situations.

Who am I?

Hello, my name is George. I’m a Junior SDET Consultant (Software Development Engineer in Test) who has recently celebrated my two-year work anniversary here at nFocus Testing. These past two years have easily been the best working years I have experienced. I say this because I have been extremely fortunate to work alongside amazing team members; colleagues who have grown into strong friendships and, I predict, lifelong support networks.

Embracing Challenges: Reflections on Growth

Join me on a journey as I traverse the intricate landscapes of software testing, grappling with self-doubt, yet emerging with newfound confidence and wisdom. This is the story of a fledgling SDET navigating uncharted territories, grappling with imposter syndrome, and ultimately finding her voice in a world of uncertainty.

Exploring AI's Role in Software Testing

The increasing integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the real world of software testing is reshaping and potentially transforming how software testing is approached and executed.

From offering intelligent automation to predictive analysis, AI is helping to optimise testing projects and processes, enhance efficiency, and ultimately elevate software quality.

As well as helping to improve existing practices, AI can be a catalyst for innovation and in this blog, we will walk through the areas which we think it either could or is already having an effect.

Welcome to the inner workings of nFocus' SDET Academy! I'm Rachel, the Marketing Lead here at nFocus, and I'm excited to give you an authentic glimpse into our innovative program designed to bridge the gap in Technical Testers.

Top Articles of 2023: A Year in Review

In the ever-evolving realm of software testing, 2023 was a year of change. nFocus witnessed significant developments in various areas and throughout the year, we’ve made it our mission to provide commentary of what we’ve been seeing along with providing our insights.

As we enter 2024, we’ve analysed the viewing patterns of our blog visitors and wanted to share our most read articles of 2023. This includes…

Insights on Recruiting Test Automation Personnel

As a business, we take pride in actively listening to our clients, prospective clients, and team members to ensure that we are consistently providing the right services to meet the evolving needs of our industry.

Through this approach, we have observed that many individuals and organisations have been facing persistent challenges when it comes to recruiting test automation professionals such as Test Automation Engineers.

Embracing Challenges and Driving Quality: Introduction

Are you enthusiastic about technology and want to blossom an admirable career rich with opportunities? Would you like some insight into what life is like as an nFocus SDET? If so, look no further.