QA, or Quality Assurance, plays a pivotal role in the world of software development. Its mission: to ensure that every line of code and every function of an application aligns perfectly with end-user expectations. But how did I stumble upon this fascinating facet of software development?
My journey into the world of QA began during my university days while pursuing a degree in Software Engineering. By my third year, I felt the urge to step into the professional realm, but my aspirations were still undefined. I had no clear destination in the vast software universe.
I had never heard the term “QA” before this. Despite having explored the concept of quality during my years of study at university, I had no awareness that there was an entire field dedicated to ensuring the quality of software. A classmate that I met invited me to apply to a vacancy at GBH to work as a Software QA, and she recommended studying the syllabus “ISTQB Certified Tester Foundation Level” certification (known as ISTQB CTFL), to learn the fundamentals of testing and QA. ISQTB is a certification that had not crossed my path until then. However, I decided to immerse myself in the syllabus, acquainting myself with its concepts and definitions before I applied for the opportunity.
This journey of exploration led me to delve into the fundamentals of the QA field and grasp its core responsibilities. As I diligently prepared myself, I managed to secure the position. However, being a QA did not automatically grant me the ISTQB CTFL certification. Additional preparation and practical application of the knowledge gained from the syllabus were required before I was ready to face the challenging certification exam.
I continued my learning journey, practicing with sample exams and engaging in discussions with colleagues in the field, until the long-awaited day of the exam arrived. Nerves were present, but my confidence in my preparation surpassed the anxiety. Hours after completing the exam, the news I had eagerly awaited arrived: I had passed the exam and obtained my certification! The rest, as they say, is history. From that point on, my path as a QA experienced steady growth, and my passion for the field has continued to expand.
Having shared this, I believe it’s important to address the first question:
What does it mean to be a QA?
Quality Assurance, or QA for short, refers to the vital process within the software development lifecycle that focuses on ensuring a product or application rigorously complies with technical requirements and business expectations, from the initial planning stage to the final user acceptance tests. QA is responsible for minimizing software defects and ensuring that any issues are identified and resolved before the software is released or delivered to the client. Its role is essential in keeping user satisfaction and quality at the heart of every software project.
Here are some of the daily tasks that a QA professional must perform:
- Review that requirements are clear and easily replicable.
- Create a test plan.
- Develop test cases based on these requirements.
- Conduct manual testing.
- Create automated tests to expedite testing.
- Perform regression testing to confirm that recent code changes have not adversely affected the software.
What is ISTQB?
ISTQB stands for the International Software Testing Qualifications Board, an organization that offers international certifications for the field of software quality and testing. As mentioned on its website, “ISTQB terminology is recognized by the industry as the de facto language for software testing and connects professionals worldwide”.
This organization offers various certifications, including foundation-level testing, agile testing, automation testing, manager tester, performance testing, and even AI testing.
Why do ISTQB certifications matter?
After discussing what ISTQB is, it’s natural to wonder: What importance do their certifications hold? Why, if you are already working in the QA field or aspiring to enter it, should you consider getting certified? Here at GBH, the QA team understands that these certifications are crucial for our professional careers for the following reasons:
- Learn globally recognized best practices and concepts in the Software Testing industry.
- Obtain global recognition from an internationally acclaimed organization in the industry.
- Enhance efficiency in your role as a QA/Tester thanks to the practical skill set acquired while studying for the certification.
- Boost credibility and confidence in your role within the team.
How can I get certified with ISTQB?
ISTQB certifications can be obtained either remotely or in person through an accredited testing provider. Here are some tips to keep in mind when preparing to take a certification exam:
- Study the syllabus: Many certifications offer a syllabus, which is a study material covering various chapters with content to help you prepare for exam questions.
- Use the official ISTQB glossary: In the syllabus, you’ll notice that at the beginning of each chapter, keywords are provided. You can consult these keywords in the official ISTQB glossary and obtain the corresponding definitions. You can access the glossary at the following URL: www.glossary.istqb.org.
- Practice with sample exams: Alongside the syllabus, ISTQB also provides sample exams as study material. It is recommended to take the sample exam with a timer set to the time allocated for the actual exam. This will help you become familiar with the exam format and prepare for time-limited conditions.
- Set a date: Establishing a deadline for the exam serves as a goal to motivate you to prepare for the certification and better organize your study time.
By following these tips, you can effectively study and prepare to pass the ISTQB certification exam and, ultimately, obtain the certification for your career. For more information on taking the exam and available certifications, you can visit the ISTQB website at istqb.org.
At GBH, we are constantly seeking professional growth and skill development within our QA team. If you have the desire to start your journey in the world of QA or are already a part of it, you can join this great family and be part of a team certified in ISTQB.
