Throughout this month, I am concentrating on QA Stories, highlighting remarkable events from various companies I've worked with. This week, I'm reminded of a reserved QA engineer whom we'll call Steve. He was exceptional at his job - uncovering even the most stubborn bugs. His ability to pinpoint the trickiest problems in web applications made him legendary among developers, despite his perpetually low-key demeanor. Here are a few stories from Steve's bug-hunting escapades that are still circulated within the Dev communities.
The Phantom Dropdown Issue
Steve's first victory was what developers called the "Phantom Dropdown Issue." It was a classic case of "it works on my machine" that had stumped everyone for weeks. The dropdown worked perfectly in all environments except for a few random occurrences on production. Most of the team chalked it up to user error, assuming that the customers must have been doing something wrong.
Steve, however, decided to dig deeper. He observed that the bug occurred only during very specific conditions?when a user with a regional setting of "en-UK" tried to access the dropdown on a Monday morning. It turned out that the JavaScript controlling the dropdown couldn't handle a particular time parsing during this transition. Steve quietly filed the bug report, detailing the obscure conditions that caused it. Developers were stunned - how had he even thought to test that?
When asked how he found it, he shrugged and said, "I just listen to WRKO for the talk, so I had time to think." That left everyone scratching their heads. How Steve's radio habits connected to the bug was beyond them, but they knew better than to question the man who could find a needle in a haystack.
The One-Pixel Invisible Button
Another time, Steve uncovered what the team later dubbed "The One-Pixel Invisible Button" issue. Users reported that their session would randomly refresh, losing all their progress. As usual, no one could reproduce it. Frustration was high, and Steve, as always, remained calm.
One afternoon, he took his laptop, sat in the break room, and pulled up the site. A few minutes later, he came back to the team, holding a stack of printed screenshots with highlighted regions. The culprit? A single, misplaced invisible button?just one pixel wide?hidden within the footer.
Apparently, whenever a user's mouse hovered over that pixel while scrolling, it triggered a refresh event. Steve discovered that it only affected users on certain screen resolutions - an anomaly that most testers would have ignored. He summed it up with his characteristic nonchalance: "Think outside the box, but don't forget to close the box once you're done."
The Mysterious Cache Flaw
Then there was the time he identified a cache issue that occurred only during high-traffic events. Users would get logged out unexpectedly, right during peak periods such as quarter end. The developers went back and forth with the server logs but couldn't pinpoint the root cause.
Steve, though, noticed a pattern. It only happened when users were refreshing their pages at precisely midnight. Most saw it as a coincidence, but Steve wasn't one for coincidences. He discovered that the session cookie's expiration time overlapped with a server-side cache refresh cycle, which triggered unexpected logouts. It was such a specific edge case that the fix involved changing a single line of code, but it saved the team's reputation.
When asked how he managed to spot the issue, Steve just said, "Don't assume, verify." Again, no one understood how that was relevant, but they were just relieved he found the problem.
Conclusion: The Value of Quiet Observation
Steve's bug-hunting prowess became the stuff of legend, not because he was loud or boisterous, but because he knew how to pay attention to the little details. While others might focus on the obvious, he had an uncanny ability to consider the strange and unexpected scenarios that others dismissed. To Steve, finding bugs was like slowly chiseling away at Stone Mountain with a hand tool?meticulous, precise, and never rushed.
He never sought the spotlight, but in the world of QA, the results spoke for themselves. Developers might have laughed at his quirky remarks or puzzled over his non-sequiturs, but they also knew one thing for sure: if there was a bug hiding somewhere in the code, Steve would find it.
In 1998, the Extra TV Show aired a compelling segment featuring actor William Baldwin, who took a bold step to address the pressing issue of teenage gun violence. This segment was part of a PBS special titled "Live By the Gun. Die By the Gun," which aimed to shed light on the devastating impact of gun violence on young lives.
In the 3-minute video clip included in this blog post, we see Baldwin teaming up with actual gang members to deliver a powerful message about the dangers of guns. The collaboration was not just about raising awareness but also about providing a raw and unfiltered look into the lives of those directly affected by gun violence. Baldwin's involvement added a layer of credibility and urgency to the message, making it resonate even more with the audience.
The special aired on PBS in 1998, a time when gun violence among teenagers was a growing concern. By bringing together voices from within the community, the show aimed to create a dialogue and encourage positive change. The inclusion of gang members in the discussion was particularly impactful, as it provided an authentic perspective on the issue.
Tragically, just a year later, the Columbine High School massacre occurred on April 20, 1999. This horrific event, where two students opened fire and killed 13 people, including 12 students and one teacher, and injured 24 others, underscored the urgent need for continued efforts to address gun violence. The Columbine massacre shocked the nation and prompted a national debate on gun control and school safety.
Watching this snippet today, it's clear that the message is still relevant. The fight against gun violence continues, and initiatives like "Live By the Gun. Die By the Gun" serve as important reminders of the work that still needs to be done. Baldwin's dedication to the cause and his willingness to engage with those directly affected by gun violence is commendable and serves as an inspiration for others to get involved.
Feel free to watch the video clip and share your thoughts in the comments. How do you think we can continue to address the issue of gun violence today? What other initiatives have you seen that are making a difference?
We are going back! Seven Years after our last visit!
It's been a while since my Disney blog, Cryan's Disney, last saw the light of day. However, with the excitement of our family's upcoming Disney adventure, now feels like the perfect time for a grand relaunch. Here's what you can expect from the new look and feel of our magical space!
Why Now?
It's been seven years since our last visit to Disney, and in that time, not only has Disney evolved with new rides, experiences, and stories, but our family has grown as well. Our kid are older now, and their first Disney memories are but a hazy dream. This trip isn't just about revisiting the magic; it's about creating new memories, exploring through fresh eyes, and sharing that journey with you.
The Great Move Ride is no longer there - but there are a lot of new ride at the Disney Studios.
Content Strategy: A Fresh Start
Pre-Trip Excitement:
Fun Facts and Trivia: (Starting in January ) Every week, we'll dive into little-known Disney facts, helping not just us but all of you get a taste of the magic early. From the history behind the parks to fun Easter eggs in Disney movies, we'll cover it all.
Behind-the-Scenes: Exclusive content on how Disney prepares for the influx of visitors, park planning tips, and insights into the magic that happens behind the scenes.
Post-Trip Reflections - -
Photo Diaries and Video Recaps: A visual feast of our best moments, captured in photos and videos.
What We Learned: Post-trip insights, including what we'd do differently, what worked wonders, and how Disney has changed or stayed the same.
Design and Aesthetics
The blog's look will get a magical makeover, reflecting the timeless yet ever-evolving spirit of Disney. Expect:
A cleaner, more user-friendly interface.
Visuals that pop, with high-quality images and perhaps a touch of animation to bring the blog to life.
A dedicated section for our trip planning resources, where we'll share our itineraries, packing lists, and tips.
What cameras we may purchase for this trip.
Lots of changes at the Haunted Mansion. What will my daughter think of the Hatbox Ghost?
Conclusion
This relaunch is more than just updating a blog; it's about reigniting a passion for storytelling, sharing, and experiencing the Disney magic. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned Disney - goer, our blog aims to be your companion in all things magical. Join us as we count down to our trip, share in our excitement, and perhaps, along the way, inspire your own Disney journey.
This week, I stumbled upon a fantastic resource for anyone in need of high-quality sample data for testing purposes: Brian Dunning's Sample Data. Whether you're a developer, QA professional, or data analyst, this tool can be incredibly useful for simulating real-world scenarios and ensuring your applications can handle large datasets.
Key Features:
Variety of Data Fields: The sample data includes fields such as First Name, Last Name, Company, Address, City, County, State/Province, ZIP/Postal Code, Phone, Email, and Web. This comprehensive set of fields allows for thorough testing of various data handling scenarios.
Realistic Data: The data is constructed from real first and last names, real company names, and accurate location information. Although the data is fake, it is formatted correctly for its respective country, making it ideal for realistic testing.
Multiple File Sizes: You can download datasets of different sizes depending on your needs. Options include 500 records for free, 50,000 records for $5, and 1 million records for $10. This flexibility allows you to choose the right amount of data for your testing requirements.
CSV Format: All files are provided in CSV format, ensuring easy import into various applications without any formatting issues.
Why Use Sample Data?
Using sample data is crucial for testing your software with a "worst-case scenario" amount of data. It helps you get an accurate sense of your application's performance in the real world. By using Brian Dunning's sample data, you can ensure that your software is robust and ready to handle real user data.
Final Cut Pro has a lot of audio effects. Here's a brief description of 48 audio effects in the "Final Cut" category:
Alien: Creates an otherworldly sound. Example: Use for sci-fi movie dialogue to give a sense of extraterrestrial origin.
Bass Enhancer 2: Boosts low frequencies for a deeper sound. Example: Enhances the bass in an EDM track for club playback.
Brightness 2: Increases high frequencies, making audio sound clearer and sharper. Example: To make dialogue stand out in a noisy environment.
Car Radio 2: Simulates the sound of listening through a car radio. Example: For a scene where viewers hear what's playing in a character's car.
Cartoon: Applies a whimsical, animated quality to voices. Example: Used in children's shows or for comedic effect.
Animals: Adds animal-like qualities or effects to audio. Example: For creating voiceovers in animal-themed animations.
Cathedral 2: Provides a large, echoing reverb like in a cathedral. Example: For a dramatic speech in a grand setting.
Chorus: Adds depth by layering slightly detuned versions of the audio. Example: To enrich the sound of a solo guitar or vocal track.
Cosmic: Imbues audio with a space-like, ethereal quality. Example: Background sound for space documentaries or ambient music.
Disguised 2: Distorts voice to obscure identity. Example: For interviews where anonymity is required.
Doubler: Creates a doubled effect without the delay typical of chorus. Example: To give vocals a fuller, more present feel.
Echo Delay: Adds echo effects to make sounds feel distant or in a large space. Example: For voiceovers in a canyon scene.
Groove Delay: Syncs delay effects to the project's tempo. Example: For creating rhythmic effects in music tracks.
Helium Voice 2: Raises pitch to simulate inhaling helium. Example: For comedic effects in dialogues.
Large Room 2: Simulates the acoustics of a large room. Example: For speeches in a hall or auditorium.
Less Bass 2: Reduces low frequencies to avoid muddiness. Example: In dialogue to ensure clarity in bass-heavy scenes.
Less Treble 2: Cuts high frequencies which can be harsh. Example: For smoothing out overly bright audio tracks.
Limiter: Prevents audio from exceeding a certain level, preventing clipping. Example: To control the loudness of a mix.
Low Tech: Gives audio a vintage, lo-fi feel. Example: For retro game sound effects or 80s synth sounds.
Massage Audio: Likely designed for soothing, possibly rhythmic sounds. Example: Background music for relaxation videos.
Medium Room 2: Adds medium-size room reverb. Example: For creating a sense of space in dialogue.
Modest Cathedral 2: A less pronounced version of Cathedral 2. Example: For subtle enhancement in dialogue in less grandiose settings.
Monster: Transforms voices into monstrous sounds. Example: For creature effects in fantasy or horror films.
Mud Removal 2: Cleans up muddy sounds by reducing mid-range frequencies. Example: For clearer speech in environments with ambient noise.
Muffled 2: Mutes sound as if heard through a barrier. Example: For scenes where sound should be muffled, like through walls.
Multi-Tune: Alters pitch in multiple ways, similar to Auto-Tune. Example: For vocal effects in pop music.
Pitch: Changes the pitch of the audio up or down. Example: To correct off-key singing or create special effects.
Remove High Frequencies 2: Cuts highs for a darker sound. Example: To reduce hiss or harshness in recordings.
Remove Low Frequencies 2: Eliminates low-end rumble. Example: For cleaning up wind noise in outdoor recordings.
Robot: Gives speech a robotic quality. Example: For AI or android characters in sci-fi.
Rumble Reducer: Specifically targets and reduces low-frequency rumble. Example: To clean up footage shot near traffic or machinery.
September1: Likely a seasonal effect that might simulate the ambiance of September, possibly with sounds of falling leaves or autumn winds. Example: Used for transitions or background in scenes set in early fall.
Shortwave Radio: Mimics the sound quality of a shortwave radio transmission, complete with static and modulation. Example: For documentaries or period pieces where characters are tuning into international broadcasts.
Shrek Jr: Presumably an effect designed for comedic or children's audio, possibly referencing the distinct voice modulation from the Shrek movies. Example: For dubbing or voiceovers in animation or parody videos.
Small Room 2: Adds a subtle reverberation typical of a small enclosed space like a bathroom or closet. Example: To enhance dialogue recorded in a tight space for realism.
Spaceship 2: Creates a sci-fi soundscape reminiscent of being inside a spaceship, with mechanical hums or the void of space. Example: For scenes in sci-fi films or video game cutscenes.
StoryLine Audio: Might be designed for narrative enhancement, possibly adding a storytelling quality or background noise that fits a narrative setting. Example: For audiobooks or podcasts to set the scene or mood.
Telephone 2: Simulates the muffled, compressed sound of talking through an old-fashioned telephone. Example: For conversations in movies where characters are on the phone.
Television 2: Gives audio the static-filled, tinny sound of an old television broadcast. Example: For scenes involving watching old TV shows or news broadcasts in movies.
Transformer: Transforms voices or sounds into mechanical or robotic sounds, ideal for sci-fi or futuristic settings. Example: For transforming human dialogue into robot voices.
Tremolo: Adds a rhythmic variation in volume, creating a pulsating effect. Example: For adding a vintage vibe to music or creating tension in film scores.
Underwater: Applies a wet, echoey effect to mimic sounds heard underwater. Example: For dialogue or ambient sounds in underwater scenes.
Vintage Radios: Provides the sound effect of listening to an old radio, perhaps with crackles and lower fidelity. Example: For historical films or radio drama settings.
Voice or Music 2: Likely enhances voice clarity or applies a subtle music effect (like a slight reverb or echo) to make vocals or instruments stand out. Example: For vocal tracks in music videos or dialogues in interviews.
Voice Over Enhancement 2: Specifically designed to make voiceovers sound more professional or clear, reducing background noise. Example: For narrations in documentaries or educational videos.
Walkie Talkie 2: Adds the typical static and distortion of a walkie-talkie communication. Example: For scenes involving military or security communications.
Zoom In: Possibly an effect that simulates the audio change as you zoom in on a scene, where sounds might become more focused or intense. Example: For dramatic reveals or focus changes in cinematic shots where the soundscape narrows or intensifies.
Each of these effects can significantly alter the mood, tone, or perceived location of sounds in a production, enhancing the storytelling through sophisticated audio manipulation.
Massachusetts, with its deep historical roots, is a treasure trove for those intrigued by the paranormal. Here's a dive into some of the most chillingly famous haunted spots in the state:
The Bridgewater Triangle: Encompassing around 200 square miles, this region between Bridgewater, Abington, and Freetown is infamous for its paranormal activities. Legends speak of UFO sightings, ghostly apparitions, and even encounters with Bigfoot-like creatures. The Hockomock Swamp within this triangle, known as "the place where spirits dwell" by local Native Americans, is particularly notorious for its eerie vibes and reported supernatural occurrences.
Salem: No discussion on haunted Massachusetts would be complete without mentioning Salem, the epicenter of the infamous Witch Trials. Locations like the Joshua Ward House, believed to be haunted by Giles Corey, or the Old Burying Point Cemetery, where many accused "witches" are buried, exude a palpable history of tragedy and mystery. The Hawthorne Hotel, named after Nathaniel Hawthorne who wrote about the trials, is also rumored to host spectral guests from that dark period.
The Lizzie Borden House in Fall River: This Victorian home is where one of America's most sensational murder cases took place. Visitors have reported ghostly encounters, including the sounds of weeping and footsteps, possibly from the spirits of Lizzie Borden's parents who were axed to death. Now a bed and breakfast, it invites guests to experience its haunted history firsthand.
Houghton Mansion in North Adams: Once home to a wealthy family, this mansion has tales of ghostly residents like Mary Houghton, who some believe still wanders its halls. The mansion's history of suicides, including that of its chauffeur, adds layers to its haunting reputation.
The USS Salem: Docked in Quincy, this heavy cruiser is not just a maritime museum but also a hotspot for ghost hunters. Stories of paranormal activity include apparitions of former crew members and strange occurrences attributed to the ship's storied past, including its role during the Korean War.
The Colonial Inn in Concord: With rooms like 24 and 27 reputedly active with ghost activity, this inn's history stretches back to the Revolutionary War. Guests have reported encounters with Jerusha Howe, believed to be the spirit of a heartbroken woman, among other spectral visitors.
Sylvester K. Pierce House in Gardner: Known as the SK Pierce Victorian Haunted Mansion, this Second Empire style house is celebrated for its paranormal activity. Built in the late 19th century, its history includes a tragic murder-suicide, making it a magnet for ghost enthusiasts.
Each of these locations not only offers a glimpse into Massachusetts' rich history but also into its darker, ghostly lore. Whether you're a skeptic or a believer, these sites provide an eerie yet fascinating journey through time, where history and the supernatural intertwine seamlessly. For those brave enough to explore, Massachusetts awaits with its spectral tales, promising chills and thrills at every corner.
This week, I experimented with Final Cut Camera to explore its features and see if it's something I'd use on a future Disney World vacation. Here are some of my notes:
Lock Your Camera Orientation
This feature ensures the camera is always ready to go when you launch the app. No more adjusting the camera to get the perfect horizontal orientation. I love this because I've often taken videos, only to realize later that I didn't tilt the camera properly before shooting.
Smooth Zoom
Final Cut Camera's zoom is smooth - which is great for slow pans. However, once you start recording, you can't change the lens. Be sure to select the right one before shooting.
Focus Peaking
This feature lets you easily see where the focus is while shooting. You can make adjustments on the fly to create some cool effects.
Cinematic Mode
Final Cut Camera doesn't have a built-in cinematic mode, where the background is slightly blurred. However, you can apply this effect during post-production.
Home Screen Access
You can't add Final Cut Camera to the iPhone Home Screen, which is surprising given it's an Apple app. You'd expect it to take full advantage of the iPhone's capabilities.
Multi-Camera Functionality
The main purpose of Final Cut Camera seems to be connecting multiple iPhones for shooting different angles simultaneously. This isn't something I'd likely use on vacation.
Overall, it's a cool app, and I'm excited to master it before strolling down Main Street USA!
In the dynamic world of software development, effective time management is crucial for Quality Assurance (QA) teams. As a QA manager, it's essential to ensure that your team balances their time between tracking bugs and seeking additional help when solutions are not immediately apparent. This balance not only improves productivity but also ensures that new issues do not pile up while existing ones are being investigated.
The Story of Peter
Let me share an example from my own experience. Years ago, I managed an employee named Peter (not his real name). Peter was exceptional at identifying and investigating why customers were encountering errors. He had a knack for finding those weird, one-off cases that often slipped through the cracks. However, Peter's dedication to solving these issues sometimes led to a significant problem: he would spend so much time investigating a single issue that new issues would start to accumulate. Peter had the habit of trying to solve really complex issues and would work late into the night to do so. While he was highly skilled and well-loved by the engineers, he simply spent too much time on one issue.
Setting Time Limits and Seeking Developer Input
To address this, it's important for managers to set time limits on bug fixes. If an issue isn't resolved within the allocated time, it's crucial to collaborate with developers to see if they can provide additional input. This collaborative approach not only speeds up the resolution process but also brings fresh perspectives to the problem.
The Role of Logging
One effective strategy that often helps is adding additional logging to the system. Enhanced logging can provide valuable insights into why things are not working correctly, making it easier to identify and fix issues. However, it's equally important to remember to remove the logging once the issue has been resolved. There's nothing worse than having to debug future issues with an overwhelming amount of logging data to sift through.
Conclusion
So, fellow QA testers, remember:
Set time limits for bug investigations.
Seek help if you can't solve it in time.
Log smart, but clean up afterwards.
Time management isn't just about working faster; it's about working smarter. Let's keep hunting those bugs efficiently, so we can all go home at a reasonable time. Happy testing!
The concept of the Fair Tax has been swirling around in American tax policy discussions for decades, but its prominence peaked in certain years, notably with commercials like the one aired in 1997 on KSFO, San Francisco's conservative-leaning talk radio station. This blog post aims to delve into what the Fair Tax is, its implications, and the sentiment around it.
What is the Fair Tax?
The Fair Tax is proposed as a consumption tax that would replace the current federal income tax, payroll taxes, and potentially other taxes. At its core, it's a national retail sales tax on new goods and services. The idea is to tax consumption rather than income, with the belief that it would simplify tax collection, encourage savings and investment, and potentially spur economic growth. Proponents argue it would be "fair" because everyone, regardless of income, pays the same tax rate on what they buy, though there are mechanisms like a prebate designed to ensure that the tax burden doesn't disproportionately affect lower-income individuals.
The 1997 KSFO Commercial Insight
The Fair Tax commercial from 1997, aired during a time when conservative talk radio was gaining ground, likely presented the tax reform as a solution to the complexities and perceived injustices of the income tax system. This period was marked by a growing frustration with government spending and taxation, sentiments often echoed in conservative media. The commercial might have highlighted themes like simplicity, fairness in consumption, and possibly the economic benefits of reducing or eliminating income taxes.
Listen to the Commercial
Conclusion
The Fair Tax, as highlighted by the 1997 commercial and echoed in current X posts, embodies a significant segment's desire for tax reform. While not without its critics who argue about regressivity or feasibility, the Fair Tax captures the essence of frustration with current tax systems. It promises simplicity, fairness, and economic stimulation, though whether it could truly deliver these outcomes remains a topic of heated debate. The commercial from over two decades ago, much like today's social media posts, reflects a continuous thread of American sentiment yearning for a tax system that feels just, transparent, and beneficial for all economic layers of society.
This year, I'm teaching 9th graders who will be confirmed in the Spring of 2025. To create a positive and productive learning environment, I've developed the following classroom rules:
Honor Thy Class Time: Arrive promptly and stay for the entire class period.
No Cell Phones During Class: Turn off or silence your phones and keep them out of sight.
Thou Shalt Not Wander the Halls: Remain in the classroom unless given explicit permission.
Respect Thy Neighbor: Treat everyone with kindness and respect. No bullying, teasing, or exclusion.
Thou Shalt Participate Actively: Engage in discussions, ask questions, and participate in activities.
Honor Thy Materials: Bring all necessary materials to class and take care of them.
Thou Shalt Listen Attentively: Listen quietly without interrupting when the teacher or a classmate is speaking.
Keep Thy Space Clean: Clean up after yourself and leave the classroom as you found it.
Thou Shalt Not Speak Out of Turn: Raise your hand and wait to be called on before speaking.
Respect and Follow Church Rules: Adhere to the specific conduct expected while in the church or classroom, such as proper attire, silence during prayer, and participation in rituals or services.
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