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5 Skills Every Tester Should Have


The ever increasing complexity of applications and the need of software applications in various business organizations have changed the face of software testing. The users expect their applications to be not only be user friendly but also defect free and this increased the responsibility of a tester. Testers are now viewed not only as a person who is responsible to find any bugs and defects in software but they are now viewed as a person who can instill some confidence into the minds of the users.

Milind Limaye on beyondtesting highlighted some of the skills that every tester is expected to possess.

1.    Communication
Testers are not only expected to be good listeners; however they are also expected to be good presenters as well. Testers need to communicate with the management, the users and the developers before, during and after development, prepare test cases, test logs and present the test reports. Communication skills of a tester include his/her body language, the tone, their writing style as well as the words they use.

2.    Domain Knowledge
Although testers are not expected to be domain experts; however they are expected to have a brief understanding about the application. This will help them identify the possible defects a user might face. According to Millind, the tester should keep the domain in mind when deciding on the priority of the bugs and defects, the test cases and the priority of the requirements. They should also be aware of the various domain complexities and the challenges.

3.    Desire to Learn
Testers are expected to keep themselves up to date with the various technologies, approaches, tools and techniques and apply them during testing. Testers should always remember that new tools may offer then some new and exciting features which can enhance their testing capabilities.

4.    Differentiate the Defects
Testers should have the ability to identify and differentiate the defects which need immediate attention and those that are severe. The test plan should include the various levels with regards to the priorities and severities of the bugs.

5.    Planning
Testers must be able to plan the testing process accordingly. The test plan should include the priorities of the various test cases, the number of defects that they are targeting, as well as all the functionalities, requirements and features.  A well planned test will lead to a high customer satisfaction.

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