In this episode of Quality Talks, host Stu Day, welcomes special guests, Vernon Richards and Nicola Lindgren on the show to discuss their new book, 'The Software Tester's Journey.'

They explore the motivations behind writing the book, the writing process, and the importance of career development in software testing.

The conversation delves into the evolving expectations of software testers, the do's and don'ts for a successful career, and the significance of being intentional about one's career path.

Additionally, they share valuable tips for aspiring authors and discuss the promotional strategies for their book.

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction to the Authors and Their Journey

05:31 - The Inspiration Behind 'The Software Tester's Journey'

08:25 - The Writing Process and Collaboration Challenges

11:33 - The Book's Focus on Career Development

14:32 - Navigating the Writing Process and Personal Challenges

17:32 - Comparing Writing a Book to Other Creative Outlets

20:20 - The Book's Content and Target Audience

23:36 - Creating Alternative Career Paths in Software Testing

34:01 - The Return of the Co-Host

34:28 - Do's and Don'ts for a Successful Career

37:35 - The Evolution of Software Testing

41:35 - Intentional Career Management

45:27 - The Value of People Management Experience

48:32 - Key Learnings from Writing a Book

53:21 - Advice for Aspiring Authors

58:00 - Where Can People Find the Book?

59:34 - Connecting with Nicola & Vern

01:01:16 - The Origin Story of Vern's 'Test from Leicester' Handle

01:02:59 - Closing the Show

Takeaways:

Links:

The Software Testers Journey Book

Amazon: https://amzn.eu/d/8u8ZDj3

LeanPub: https://leanpub.com/testersjourney

Nicola Lindgren:

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/nicolalindgren

Website: nicolalindgren.com 

Vernon Richards (You can also just google him):

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/vernonrichards

Website: vernonrichards.com 

In this episode, we explore the intricacies of performance engineering with industry experts Tomi Tiihonen and Hari Patel.

The conversation delves into the evolution of performance engineering, the shift from performance testing to engineering, and the complexities introduced by modern software architectures and cloud technologies.

The importance of monitoring, observability, and data analysis is emphasised, alongside the challenges of frequent updates and non-functional requirements.

The episode concludes with valuable advice for aspiring performance engineers, highlighting the need for curiosity, adaptability, and mentorship.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to Performance Engineering

13:34 - The Evolution from Performance Testing to Engineering

15:46 - Complexity in Modern Software Architecture

18:30 - The Role of Monitoring and Observability

21:08 - Navigating Non-Functional Requirements

24:11 - The Impact of Cloud Technology on Performance

27:19 - Challenges in Performance Engineering Today

30:15 - The Future of Performance Engineering

47:09 - The Carbon Footprint of Cloud Computing

49:26 - Balancing Speed and Performance in Technology

56:03 - The Future of Performance Engineering

01:03:25 - Navigating Change in Software Development

01:06:51 - Career Insights in Performance Engineering

01:19:04 - Outro

Takeaways

Links:

Tomi Tiihonen

LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/tomit

Medium - https://tomi-tiihonen.medium.com/

Hardik Patel

LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/hardikkumar-patel-aa028a104

In this episode of Quality Talks, host Stu Day welcomes guests Karen Todd, Rahul Parwal, and Ben Dowen to discuss their experiences at the Ministry of Testing - TestBash conference.

They reflect on the unique community atmosphere, the importance of networking, and the challenges of choosing sessions amidst the fear of missing out.

The conversation also delves into advice for aspiring speakers and key takeaways from the event, emphasizing the diverse nature of testing and the value of communication within the community.

Chapters

00:00 - Welcome and Episode Introduction

06:58 - Introduction and Guest Introductions

09:50 - Experiences at Test Bash

13:02 - The Unique Vibe of Test Bash

16:02 - Community and Support at TestBash

18:59 - Navigating Conference Choices

21:55 - Getting Involved: Speaking and Workshops

25:00 - Key Takeaways from TestBash

27:50 - Reflections on Learning and Growth

30:49 - Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks

Links:

1. Karen Todd YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/@KarenTestsStuff

2. Ministry of Testing Community: https://www.ministryoftesting.com/membership#join-today

3. Ministry of Testing Contribute: https://www.ministryoftesting.com/contribute

In this episode - Testing, Testing, 2...1...3, Stu Day is joined by the first ever podcast guest to discuss their experiences in the software testing industry and how their perspectives on testing have evolved over time. 

They delve into the importance of exploring and questioning in testing, as well as the need to gather and interpret information to make informed decisions. They also cover the importance of culture in quality engineering and the challenges of balancing people, process, and tools in testing. 

The conversation highlights the holistic nature of testing and the continuous learning and adaptation required in the field. The conversation explores the myths around testing and whether testing can equal quality. 

Takeaways:

1. Testing is not just about finding defects in software, but also about gathering information and interpreting it to make informed decisions.

2. The role of testing has evolved to include exploring and questioning, as well as testing the delivery process and company culture.

2. Quality engineering involves accelerating the achievement of shippable quality and focusing on the people, process, and tools involved.

4. Tools are valuable in testing, but it's important to prioritise understanding the problem being solved before relying on them.

5. The software testing industry requires continuous learning and adaptation to keep up with evolving perspectives and practices. 

6. Testing is a tool to help identify if expectations and standards have been met, but it does not guarantee quality.

7. Interpreting the information gathered from testing and considering broader aspects of quality is important.

8. Quality is subjective and can vary based on individual needs and perspectives. Testing is just one part of a holistic approach to quality.

9. Meaningful data is crucial for testing to contribute to quality.

10. Great testing provides useful, timely, and actionable information.

11. An empowered team is necessary to make meaningful decisions based on testing.

12. Asking questions, making assumptions, and gathering feedback are important for good quality testing

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction and Special Guest

02:56 - Thanking Listeners and Updates

08:01 - Personal Updates and Recent Experiences

11:59 - Longstanding Friendship and Professional Journey

16:01 - Evolution of Testing Perspectives

22:58 - Holistic Approach to Testing

25:56 - Balancing People, Process, and Tools

27:11 - Debunking Testing Myths

30:26 - Testing vs. Quality

39:18 - Examples of Testing and Quality

48:43 - The Role of Testing in Quality

55:14 - The Role of Testing in a Holistic Approach to Quality

57:25 - The Importance of Meaningful Data in Testing

57:55 - Characteristics of Great Testing

01:00:15 - The Role of an Empowered Team in Quality Testing

01:06:03 - The Value of Asking Questions and Gathering Feedback in Testing

In this episode, Stu Day discusses the importance of testing and pushing ourselves outside of our comfort zones in both our personal and professional lives.

He draws parallels between his experience in bodybuilding and the software testing industry, highlighting the need for continuous improvement, adaptation, and feedback.

Stu encourages listeners to test themselves, try new things, and challenge their teams to deliver high-quality products. He emphasizes the value of context and real-world examples in connecting with others and fostering growth mindsets.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Episode Agenda

03:51 Pushing Outside Comfort Zones

16:47 Testing and Trying New Approaches

32:29 Feedback and Continuous Improvement

45:21 Conclusion and Call to Action

In this episode of Quality Talks, Chris and Stu, with the help of listeners contributions, discuss the question - What Is Quality?

Starting out by discussing whats been going on since the last episode and more importantly, the quality of Chris' tan lines :) before sharing their, and the listeners, experiences and perspectives on what quality means to them and how it has evolved over time.

They emphasise the importance of understanding and meeting customer expectations, as well as the need for continuous feedback and improvement. Touching on the subjective nature of quality and the importance of collaboration and communication in delivering high-quality products and services.

Oh....and they also announce the first ever winner of the podcasts free merch give away :)

In this episode of Quality Talks, Stu and Chris discuss their careers. Starting with way back where it all began. They also delve into what they love about the industry, pivotal moments, pet hates and what advice they would give to their younger selves and others.

In this episode of Quality Talks, Stu and Chris discuss their careers. Starting with way back where it all began. They also delve into what they love about the industry, pivotal moments, pet hates and what advice they would give to their younger selves and others.