How to Become a Software Tester
Software testing is a critical element of the ever-growing app development industry and involves verifying a computer system or programme to determine whether it meets the intended requirements and produces the desired results. You will also identify bugs in the software product or project, helping to provide a better final product to the consumer.
What Qualifications Do You Need to Be a Software Tester?
A bachelor’s degree in computer science, maths or engineering will be looked upon favourably by employers, although this is not always required.
If you have hands-on experience, a strong work history and positive references as well as some sort of certification or qualification, it is still possible to land a job.
Obtaining a certification will help to prove your dedication and set you apart from other candidates. Many software testing certifications are vendor-neutral, meaning your skills will be recognised across all aspects of software testing. Some popular certifications include ISTQB Software Testing, Microsoft MTA Certification and Certified Penetration Testing.
As a Beginner, Where Should I Start in Software Testing?
Depending on your current education, you may either wish to upskill by way of a specific certification or complete a Diploma or bachelor’s degree in computer science, maths, engineering or a related field.
You may also wish to learn programming languages in your own time or participate in hackathons to develop your skills, network and make yourself more desirable when searching for a testing job.
Skill Set Required for a Software Tester
The following set of skills is recommended for people aspiring to profitable careers in software testing:
Strong communication skills
Multi-tasking abilities
Understanding of development methodologies, platforms or environments like Agile and Scrum
Thorough knowledge of several testing tools
Fluency in UNIX, Linux and/or Windows, as well as scripting and command-line tools
Knowledge of various programming languages, such as Java, JavaScript, C# or C++, SQL, Python, PHP and Ruby on Rails
What Does a Software Tester Do?
Software testers are at the frontline of quality assurance, diving deep into applications to pinpoint bugs and interface issues. Tests are conducted at different stages of the software life cycle and may look at stress, performance, functionality, scalability and user acceptance.
A tester will typically be brought in at the planning and design stage of a project and may remain to provide post-release support as well.
Software testers typically work in DevOps teams that develop vendor software, saving users from buggy software or applications while reducing the tech support enquiries the vendor has to respond to.
Typical Duties for a Software Tester
While the job of a software tester is a highly varied one, below are responsibilities that define the software tester role and you can expect to have to carry our regularly upon starting employment.
Popular Career Pathways for Software Testers
An entry-level software tester will typically begin with executing tests. As they gain more experience, they will work on designing test cases themselves. Eventually, you might become a test manager who oversees and coordinates a team of testers, or branch out to become a software developer, test engineer or QA tester.
Software testers have the opportunity to work in any number of fields, given the widespread use of software and apps in all types of organisations.
