Quality Assurance in Software Testing Essentials: Examples, Evolution, Differences & Skills

Over 500 million software tests are run on Google’s system every single day. In the race for innovation, Quality Assurance in software testing stands tall as a guardian of user satisfaction and project success in software development. 

Consider constructing a magnificent structure; the blueprint may be flawless, but it is the vigilant inspector who ensures the perfection of each brick, which ensures its strength and durability. Similarly, in the digital landscape, Quality Assurance ensures that every line of code aligns with precision, functionality, and user expectations.

Let’s look into the basics of software quality assurance (QA) and discover the skills that can transform you as an architect of software.

What Is QA Testing?

Quality Assurance (QA) in Software Testing is like making sure a computer game or app works fine before you can use it. When computer games or apps are made, there is a Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC).

Quality Control (QC) vs Quality Assurance (QA): How Are They Different?

e making sure a computer game or app works fine before you can use it. When computer games or apps are made, there is a Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC).

Aspect	Quality Assurance (QA)	Quality Control (QC)
Definition	Guidelines, policies, and procedures for a high-quality product.	Reviewing the product during production to ensure high standards.
Timing	Throughout the entire process (from planning to maintenance).	During the inspection phase of production.
Approach	Proactive – focuses on processes during development.	Reactive – deals with problems or glitches found.
Focus	On the overall process.	On the actual product.
Responsibility	Organization-wide responsibility.	Handled by smaller teams testing the product.
Importance	Ensures set guidelines, standards, and collaboration practices are followed.	Identifies and corrects problems, ensuring the final product is of the highest quality.

Uncover more about the importance of quality assurance in the next section.

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What Is the Importance of Quality Assurance?

Let’s talk about why Quality Assurance (QA) in Software Testing is like having a corrector for computer programs. However, QA is not just about fixing mistakes; it brings lots of noticeable benefits that make computer programs better and helps the company hold on to a good impression.

Here Are Some of the Iconic Things QA Does:

• Customer Satisfaction

QA makes sure the computer programs work the way people want them to. This means fewer problems for the people using the programs.

• Saving Money

QA finds and fixes mistakes early, which is way cheaper than fixing them after the program is already out there. It’s like stopping a small problem before it becomes a big one!

• Being the Best in the Game

Imagine you have two toys, and one works perfectly while the other has some problems. Which one would you choose? QA helps make computer programs the best so more people want to use them. It’s like being the most desirable toy in the store!

• Following the Rules

Some computer programs need to follow special rules, like wearing a helmet when riding a bike. QA makes sure the programs follow these rules, which is important, especially in industries like healthcare and finance.

• Keeping the Application in Use

Computer programs are like living things that change over time. QA makes sure they stay suitable for use even as they get older. It’s like having a magical spell to keep your favorite toy working perfectly forever.

Examples in Software Quality Analyst Testing 

So, you know that Quality Assurance in software testing ensures computer programs work properly. Now, let’s look at some examples:

at change over time. QA makes sure they stay suitable for use even as they get older. It’s like having a magical spell to keep your favorite toy working perfectly forever.

Web Applications

Functionality testing: Think of it like checking each part of an app to make sure it works. For online banking, they check if you can log in and use your account without any problems.

Usability testing: It’s like checking if the buttons and the way the website looks are easy for you to understand and use.

Compatibility testing: This is to make sure the app works on different computers. For online banking, they check if it works on all kinds of internet browsers and devices, like computers, tablets, and phones.

Performance testing: Imagine lots of people using an app at the same time. They check if the online banking website can handle many people using it without slowing down.

Mobile App Testing

Device compatibility: It’s like making sure the app works on all types of phones with different screen sizes and shapes.

Functional testing: You will check if all the buttons and features in the app, like buying things in an app, work the way they’re supposed to.

Performance testing: They see if the app still works well eve

Software Quality Assurance Evolution: Take a Look

The way we make sure computer programs work well has changed a lot over time. In the past, testing happened after making the program, and once it was done, no more changes could be made. This way of working shifted, and now we have something called Quality Assurance (QA) in software testing.

Historical Shifts

Earlier, QA was done separately after the program was made, but now it happens right from the beginning of making the program. QA used to be a separate job, but now it’s part of the whole process of making software.

PDCA Cycle

The QA process follows a cycle called PDCA (Plan, Do, Check, Act). It’s like a roadmap to make sure the program is top-notch.

Plan: Set goals and decide how to make a great program.

Do: Actually make the program and test it.

Check: Look closely to make sure everything is as planned.

Act: If something’s not right, make changes to improve the program.

Modern Role of QA

Nowadays, QA is super important in making software. It’s like the guardian making sure the software is safe and works well.

Changes in Tools

In the past, tools to manage tests and defects were big and complicated. Now, they are smaller and more efficient. They don’t need a lot of memory or a big setup.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

AI is like a smart helper in QA now. Instead of people going through tons of code, AI can find errors really fast. Besides, AI doesn’t get tired, so it keeps producing good results. Additionally, AI can look at other successful programs and help make new ones even better.

Want to land a job in Software Quality Assurance? Check the next sections.

What Are the Skills Needed to Become a Quality Assurance Tester?

A Quality Assurance tester holds a vital role in ensuring software products meet high-quality standards and fulfill user requirements. Collaborating closely with software developers and project managers, their responsibilities include:

Discover the Responsibilities of a Software Quality Assurance Engineer

A Software Quality Assurance Engineer plays a crucial role in upholding the quality of software products and ensuring they meet user requirements. Their responsibilities involve close collaboration with developers and project managers, aiming to identify and resolve issues throughout the software development process.

Key Tasks Include:

In a Nutshell: Quality Assurance in Software Testing

Quality Assurance (QA) in software testing acts like a guardian, making sure computer programs work well and meet what users really need. Unlike Quality Control (QC), QA is active throughout the whole development process, ensuring guidelines are followed.

It’s crucial for customer satisfaction, saving money by fixing problems early, and making programs the best they can be. Over time, QA has evolved, using tools and even Artificial Intelligence (AI).

And you have learned that important skills for QA testers include paying attention to details, problem-solving, and good time management. So, if you want a fruitful course for quality assurance, our experienced instructors are here to help you.

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FAQs on Quality Assurance: Get More Information

What are the Methods of Software Quality Assurance?

Software Quality Assurance (SQA) ensures software meets certain standards. Methods include reviews, testing, audits, and process improvement.

What are the Best Practices for Software Quality Testing?

For effective software quality testing, follow these practices: test early and often, automate testing, use real data, check for security, assess performance, and test usability.

How Do You Make a Software Personalized Quality Assurance Strategy?

If you have an e-commerce app, here is an example of creating a Software Quality Assurance (SQA) strategy:

 

• Define Scope: Outline key project features, e.g., user authentication and shopping cart.
• Set Objectives: Ensure a user-friendly, secure app with minimal transaction errors.
• Identify Quality Attributes: Pinpoint vital aspects – performance, security, usability, and reliability.
• Establish Metrics: Set a metric, e.g., Response Time: 95% of interactions under 2 seconds.
• Plan Assurance Activities: Develop a detailed plan for testing, and code reviews, including functional, security, and performance testing.
• Implement the Strategy: Execute planned activities, monitor progress, iterate based on feedback, e.g., execute test cases, conduct security audits, and analyze performance metrics for continuous improvement.

What are Software Quality Assurance Standards?

These are guidelines defining software quality. Common standards include ISO/IEC 9126, ISO/IEC 12207, IEEE 829, and IEEE 1012.

What are the Main Attributes of Determining Software Quality?

Consider buying a new smartphone. The quality is judged based on:

1. Functionality Does it have all the features you need?
2. Reliability Does it work consistently?
3. Usability Is it user-friendly?
4. Efficiency Does it operate smoothly without lag?
5. Maintainability Can you easily update or fix issues?
6. Portability Can you use the app in systems with different capabilities?

These attributes collectively determine the overall quality of the smartphone, much like in software.