Characteristics of high performing testers: a case study

ABSTRACT

Objective: We studied what are the characteristics of high performing software testers in the industry. Method: We conducted an exploratory case study, collecting data through recorded interviews of one development manager and three testers in each of the three companies, analysis of the defect database, and informal communication within our research partnership with the companies. Results: We found that experience, reflection, motivation and personal characteristics were the top level themes. Experience related to the domain, e.g. processes of the customer, and on the other hand, specialized technical skills, e.g. performance testing, were seen more important than skills of test case design and test planning.

References

1. Iivonen, J., Identifying and Characterizing Highly Performing Testers -- A Case Study in Three Software Product Companies, Thesis M. Sc., Helsinki University of Technology, 2009, http://www.soberit.hut.fi/espa/publications/MTI.pdf
2. Turley, R. T. and Bieman, J. M., 1995."Competencies of exceptional and nonexceptional software engineers," The Journal of Systems & Software, vol. 28, no. 1, 19--38.
3. Weinberg, G., M., 1998. The Psychology of Computer Programing - Silver Aniversay Edition, New York, USA: Dorset House Publishing

Index Terms

• Social and professional topics

  • Professional topics

    • Management of computing and information systems

      • Project and people management