Software testing is the systematic process of verifying that individual software works as expected. QA (quality assurance) is a broader term that encompasses all aspects of ensuring the quality of a product, from initial planning to final release.
What Are The Main Differences Between Software Testing and QA?
The main difference between software testing and QA is that testing is concerned with individual pieces of software, while QA is concerned with the overall product. Software testers are ultimately responsible for verifying that the software works as expected, while QA professionals ensure that all aspects of the development project meet quality standards.
QA also encompasses requirements gathering, design reviews, and release management, which are not typically part of the testing process.
In summary, the main differences between software testing and QA are:
- Software testing is concerned with individual pieces of software, while QA is concerned with the overall product.
- QA encompasses requirements gathering, design reviews, and release management, which are not typically part of the software testing process.
How Do Companies Decide Which Role to Fill for Their Team
The size and type of company often determine the role of the software tester or QA professional. Smaller companies may have only one person performing both functions, while larger companies may have a separate team dedicated to QA. In addition, you must consider the type of product your team is developing. If the product is relatively simple, it may be possible to have one person perform both roles. However, if the product is complex or has many features, it may be necessary to have a separate tester and QA professional.
The Benefits of Having Both a Software Tester and QA Engineer on Your Team
There are several benefits to having both a software tester and a QA engineer on your team.
- Testers can identify defects and problems with the software, while QA professionals can aid in preventing faults from happening in the first place.
- QA professionals can ensure that all aspects of the product meet quality standards, while testers can verify that the software works as expected.
- QA professionals can streamline the process with specification gathering, design reviews, and release management.
Having both a tester and QA professional on your team can ensure that the product is of ideal quality and meets all requirements. In addition, it may reduce the number of defects in the software, while improving the overall development process.
When You Might Need a Separate QA Department
There are some cases where it may be necessary to have a separate QA department. That typically occurs when the product is complex or has many features. It may be difficult for one person to perform both software tester and QA professional roles in these cases.
Having a separate QA department or third-party provider can ensure that all aspects of the product are tested and meet quality standards. In addition, it can aid in improving the overall development process, which can be crucial in mission-critical applications.
