Head of testing at Scott Logic, Laurence Pisani, believes that conferences are fantastic learning and sharing spaces, and with so many speakers it can be difficult to capture everything. So instead, he created a quick snapshot of some of his most thought-provoking moments raised by speakers or in discussion at the Software Testing Conference North 2017.

1. WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A TESTER

What does it mean to be a tester, versus an engineer? Perhaps that that an engineer’s role is more intrinsically involved with understanding code and tech, but no less about measuring value. Testers, however, may be more focused on the value and impact of information derived from testing, and both applying their insights back to improve on the quality of the application under test. (Day 1 closing Q&A, hosted by Laurence Pisani)

2. PROJECT RISK TRIANGLE

The Project Risk Triangle is Money, Time, and Risk/Quality. In most cases, a project will finish successfully whether Money or Time risk is present or not. But the ‘Risk/Quality’ corner of the triangle is where testers come in – we look at the risk that the product will not meet the expected quality. (Talk: The Problems with Risk and Risk based testing – Keith Yorkston)

3. THE CONTINUED IMPORTANCE OF MANUAL TESTING

Context driven manual testing allowing testers to “remain in the test zone and get out of the admin zone”. A great description, particularly for people less immersed in the test automation industry. (Talk: Rise of the Machines – Lee Crossley)

4. SELF-DEVELOPMENT

Self-development and habit-making in the context of a career in testing. What is the point if you aren’t always trying to improve? And why should your job be any different to your hobbies? (Talk: Blue Pill or Red Pill, you decide – Leigh Rathbone)

5. THE VALIDITY OF TRADITIONAL TESTING METRICS

The testing industry is still massively disparate in its approach to what is considered ‘valuable information’. However, that whether driving out metrics, or determining user-centric MI, we should always consider what insights we are drawing from the information at hand. (Day 1 closing Q&A, hosted by Laurence Pisani)

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