TestBash World 2022 - Transitioning Into QA: My Shift Left with Brittany Stewart

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#1

In this talk, @brittanyleebird will shares her transition journey from Designer to Business Management to Software Tester, identify transferable skills from design and business admin to testing as well as provide a guide on how the transferable non-technical and technical skills can be applied to software testing.

We’ll use this Club thread to share resources mentioned during the session and answer any questions we don’t get to during the live session.

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#2

Question in Slido from Manvinder Kaur:

“maintain and execute manual test cases or it is replaced with mind map/risk based/ exploratory testing?”

Question in Slido from Marc Lung:

“What is the best ways to communicate & collaborate with cross-functional team members without coming across like we’re pointing out flaws.”

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#3

Thanks for your talk, Brittany! Portable skills is close to my heart, but I haven’t really thought about them over time ← Definitely going to do some reflection there!

Here’s my take clustering sticky notes (similar to your mindmap branching)

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#4

Thanks for the questions and for sharing this Claire! Love what you’ve done here.

Yes, I’ve found that it does take time to completely map those portable skills, mainly because our interests and experiences change as we learn and grow. Reflection and documenting them like this should certainly help. In time, you’ll see the dots connect and where your strongest areas for transferring these skills are. Just keep an open mind and keep learning. :pray:t5:

#5

Answer to Manvinder Kaur’s question:

Use the mind map as a tool to help with test case management and execution. I don’t see it as a replacement, but rather as a useful tool. You can learn more about how to use mind mapping in testing here: Mind Mapping in Testing: A Productivity Hack for Testers - QualityWorks Consulting Group.

In response to Marc Lung’s question:

I like to start by learning about the team’s priorities. It takes effort to build this collaborative atmosphere, but I’ve found that being open about my intents and aims helps. The team can tell that my primary goal when evaluating or asking questions is to help us succeed as a team. Here are some guidelines:

  • Make an effort to speak with team members. If you are remote, switch on your camera and reveal your true self to the crew. Books like “Dare to Lead” by Brene Brown have taught me a lot about being vulnerable. To establish a relationship, tell a little bit about yourself outside of work.
  • Understand what they want to achieve and plan/strategize based on these common aims. Inform the team of your intentions and solicit feedback/suggestions on your work. This opens the doors of communication and lets others know they may talk freely to you.
  • Use visual tools to promote communication among all members.

I hope this is helpful. You can also find more information on my blog post related to this talk at https://www.brittanystewart.tech/post/how-to-use-transferable-skills-qa