Why should software testing be independent?

The development process is loaded with landmines. First you have to make sure requirements are testable before you develop high-level designs. Then you have to develop the software in line with internal processes and systems.

Development companies often offer full testing solutions. The risks with using development companies for testing services are listed below.

Development companies are focused on ensuring functionality is delivered according to client requirements.

Even their best intentions on software quality may not be realised simply because their focus differs to quality houses. Testing companies focus on exposing systems to rigorous tests that may detect critical defects.

What is the difference between development companies and testing companies? Critical defects.

Developers are constructors or builders of systems. Likewise their focus is on making something work rather than highlighting shortcomings. The mindset is on building, not testing for quality. Besides initial unit or module testing and the integration thereof, they make lousy testers.

In this light they are not recommended for end-to-end system testing.

Business analysts test often in the South African context. This is not unusual as they also test in other countries. However, their testing is not regarded as system testing or validation testing. Business analysts are typically responsible for adhoc testing done with business users.

Business analysts are neither skilled in testing nor do they possess the right framework for testing. Their focus is on ensuring the system under test functions rather than defect detection.

So they are also not recommended for system testing or end user testing.

Testing is often seen as an unnecessary expense or regarded as a lower priority. We recommend that you make your testing independent from those doing the design and development thereof.

For more information about QA Consultants and its solutions and services, visit www.qualityassuring.co.za.