Do tools capture the more functional aspects of testing better? Is software that is developed better, so less of that kind of work is required?
So as an example, we are developing an API for others to consume. You would think we could test this mostly with test automation built by developers — Aka Shift-Left aka Modern Testing Principles and findings from Accelerate DevOps research. Or we could have test engineers/SDETs build this, as @al8xr mentions. Or they might be called “testers” but must code as part of the job as @willyjamesfold mentions.
What things do you see they get stuck on? I always love to hear examples.
The least effective way in the case above would be to write “classic” step-based test cases for things automation could solve. Depending on what you built, but given the range of low-code automation tools, we can generally automate more and more. (not everything though).
I think it’s a bit too early to say if the impact has been positive or negative. I think that a QA Professional Bootcamp has great potential, but it needs to be created and led by the right people.
I started seeing QA bootcamps in the US in 2021. They’re not backed by anyone that I know from our community. I’ve met a few grads via networking. They seem happy with the experience but struggle to find work upon graduation (I’m chalking this up to long-term market volitility–the is an extremely competitive job market for an entry-level professional).
I’ve seen folks complete both ISTQB and the Bootcamp but I don’t know anyone that chose one over the other. The bootcamps are around $5,000, so I suppose no one’s concerned about an additional $200 for ISTQB.
I someone asked me , I wouldn’t recommend ISTQB as a viable training option for someone hoping the enter the field. You don’t receive enough practical knowledge for day-to-day work by studying for the Foundation exam.
I am hoping that an organization like MoT, AST, or PNWSQ creates a certification from a trustworthy source.
I agree with your opinion. But, what should happen and what actually happens (most of the time) are different things. Most employers want to minimize costs and increase profits. If that means stealing your personal time, then they will do it. You can always try to change the culture or quit, but its hard to find employers who don’t have such tendencies, especially after 2025 when mass layoffs started. Some employers steal employee time more than the others and a few don’t steal it at all. Moreover, there are many people who have plenty of time on their hands (no kids, little social life, have enough savings to cold quit etc.) or are desperate enough to work during personal hours. Good luck if your team consists of mostly such people. You will have no choice but to match if you end up in such a team, at least until you can find a better job.
Btw, I had a manager who would openly tell people to study on their own time. This started when mass layoffs started happening around 2024-2025. They know that there are plenty of desperate people willing to sacrifice their personal time, at least until the job market tilts in the favor of job seekers. I think the only solution is to be so good that your employer always feels the fear of you going to a competitor. That fear gives you some bargaining power.
I see dark factories running by BAs, no devs in the loop. At least they come back with PRs
Afraid to think about QAs - do not know what happens next. Scared about my own job too, honestly
UPD:
Looking from my silo - the pioneers will start reshaping the SDLC by the end of this year. New roles in, old roles out. The shift is coming. Based on what I observe today, you will not recognize the agentic SDLC. Maybe it turns into “QA owns all”, maybe into “BA/PdM owns all”, maybe something else… Kind of a pivotal point. But something will happen.
