7 Steps to Organize an Efficient QA Testing

The testing phase is a critical stage in any project. It goes beyond simply ensuring that everything works; it involves checking whether the final product aligns with the initial requirements. While consultants and engineers are responsible for performing the initial testing, the client has the final say. Therefore, it is crucial to provide the client with the necessary conditions and instructions to conduct an efficient QA testing.

1. Define Realistic Test Cases

The client possesses invaluable insights into how customers would behave and can simulate their actions as consumers. By involving the client in the test briefing, the stakeholders can perform a sanity check and identify potential issues that might not have been apparent on paper. In the end, it is essential to create detailed descriptions of each test case, outlining the most critical milestones to be examined. By going into maximum detail, the chances of encountering unexpected bugs during deployment can be reduced.

2. Leverage Client Expertise for Test Situations and Data

The client’s knowledge is indispensable when it comes to creating realistic test situations and providing relevant test data. They understand the specific forms that data should take, the appropriate testing methods, and the optimal timing for performing tests. Collaborating with the client empowers them to set up the real cases required for testing and define the necessary pre-requisites.

3. Develop a Comprehensive Testing Procedure

Once the test cases are described, and the test situations are prepared, Martech consultants can create a well-defined testing procedure and testing sheet. The testing strategy should be a collaborative discussion between the consultants and the client, ensuring that everyone is aligned. Depending on the allocated testing time, the procedure can either be a concise list of instructions or a detailed checklist of cases to be examined individually.

4. Conduct an Efficient QA Testing with Senior Internal Staff

Before handing over the testing responsibilities to the client, it is foreseen to perform an internal quality assurance check with senior consultants and/or engineers. This initial assessment involves conducting a few test entries per case to ensure that the basic functionality is intact and that the tool works properly in general. It serves as a preliminary measure to identify and address any glaring issues.

5. Present the Solution and Gather Feedback

Consultants are entitled to present the solution in detail to the client. If the solution aligns with the requirements, the presentation process is typically straightforward and doesn’t necessitate extensive technical knowledge on the client’s part. On top of that, consultants are also in charge of introducing certain rules, such as:

• Avoiding testing during rushed phases or under pressure.
• Conducting the testing process with two individuals (one testing and explaining, and the other observing).
• Escalating straight away “NO GO” issues to the relavant stakeholders, and leaving smaller bugs for the debriefing phase.

6. Allow Uninterrupted Testing by the Client

The client possesses unique expectations and preferences. While they may have communicated their quality drivers and expectations during the briefing phase, there is always an element of subjectivity involved. Let the client conduct an efficient QA testing. It can also be beneficial to let future users unfamiliar with the solution be involved. This approach helps capture diverse perspectives and ensures comprehensive evaluation.

7. Debrief and Prioritize Bug Fixes with the Client

A thorough debriefing session must be organised. The client is meant to share feedback regarding identified bugs and issues with the relevant consultants and engineers. Why is this meeting so importanr? First, it avoids redundant work by preventing duplicates from being reported. Second, it facilitates prioritization of changes based on the severity and impact of the problems encountered. Finally, the debriefing allows for a discussion on whether the proposed changes fall within the scope of the project or require additional resources.

Conclusion: While the technical expertise lies with the consultants and engineers, the client possesses valuable insights that can anticipate potential mismatches with existing workflows and software infrastructure. Consultants and engineers must actively listen to the client’s input and ask relevant questions throughout the testing phase. This approach ensures a perfect alignment between the requirements and the delivered solution, fostering a successful outcome for all parties.