Introduction
Let’s dive into why timing is a big deal in terms of development. Imagine this: tight deadlines, balancing different projects, and the ever-common challenge – delayed testing. Pushing testing to later stages can set off a chain reaction, triggering context switching, project delays, and stressed-out developers.
Context Switching Challenges
Juggling different tasks without completing them can be a real challenge for developers. When handling change requests from various stakeholders and fixing bugs simultaneously, it unavoidably leads to context switching.
Moreover, delaying tests until the last moment can trigger a snowball effect of issues. Unexpected bugs or malfunctioning features can lead to delays, making it challenging to determine the remaining workload and set priorities. Addressing issues at the end of the cycle is also demotivating for developers because it forces them to revisit old problems.
Hidden Costs: Impact on Developers
Developers thrive in a focused work environment, where they can maintain a specific train of thought. Building context within the code base and comprehending how components integrate improves their efficiency.
While developers are used to task shifts, constant interruptions inevitably cost momentum. Shifting between projects has a negative impact on productivity, focus, time, and code quality. Context switching can also lead to overwhelming schedules and increased pressure on developers, potentially causing decreased job satisfaction and even burnout.
Autonomous Testing: A Game-Changing Shift
Autonomous testing is a real game-changer. Objective-based testing, unlike traditional testing methods, adapts to modifications in the user flows, offering greater flexibility and efficiency. The result is a time-saving and efficient testing process that aligns with the dynamic nature of software development.
Empowering QA Engineers and Developers
Because autonomous testing offers immediate feedback, developers can be sure that a feature is done when they’re finished with it. It eliminates the need to revisit old features later down the line and allows them to move on to other tasks. Automating repetitive tasks frees up time for developers to focus on more stimulating tasks, such as building new features.
Additionally, since autonomous testing efficiently identifies errors, it helps avoid difficult conversations. No one likes pointing out someone’s mistakes, so let a machine do the dirty work! That way, you can talk about other interesting stuff, like, let’s say, how corgi mixes look like corgis in disguise.
QA engineers will also reap benefits from testing earlier in the development process. This way, they can address issues during specification and design, preventing bugs from trickling down the pipeline. This maximizes their efficiency and promotes collaboration with developers.
Revisiting company culture
Companies should consider setting practices that minimize context switching. Think about well-organized development tickets, clear documentation, and autonomous testing. This creates an environment for devs to deep dive into their work without disruptions. The result: improved concentration, efficiency, and increased motivation.
Conclusion
In a nutshell, fixing bugs early, cutting down on context switching, and embracing autonomous testing is a powerful trio that can make a huge difference. Not only in efficiency and quality of products but also in increased job satisfaction, improved collaboration, and faster time-to-market.
About the author
Patrick Lef is the Founder of QA.tech. Currently serving as CPO, he’s exploring AI and LLMs. Over the years, he has acquired a diverse skill set, serving in multiple key roles, including web developer, lead developer, CTO, product manager, COO, and head of product, at well-established companies such as Videofy, Albacross, Besedo, Dooer, and memmo. He calls Stockholm home and shares it with a charming corgi. His interests extend beyond the tech world; in his free time, Patrick is a culinary enthusiast, finding joy in the art of cooking and mastering the craft of sourdough baking.