Blog Listing

Quality Assurance Image Library

This is my carefully curated collection of Slack images, designed to perfectly capture those unique QA moments. Whether it's celebrating a successful test run, expressing the frustration of debugging, or simply adding humor to your team's chat, these images are here to help you communicate with personality and style.

February 11, 2025

The $10 Haircut Story

Today, we're diving into a classic debate that stretches across industries: Quality vs.Price.

Now, I know some of you out there love a good deal. Who doesn't? But today, I want to tell you a story about a barber, a $10 haircut, and what it truly means to provide value.

So grab a coffee, take a break from debugging that stubborn test case, and let's talk quality!


The Barber Story

Picture this: There's a barber in town. Let's call him Joe. Joe has been cutting hair for years in his cozy little shop. His customers love him - not just because he gives great haircuts, but because of the experience. The warm conversation, the attention to detail, the sense of community. His window proudly displays his price:

Haircuts, $20.

One day, Joe walks up to his shop and notices something new across the street. A flashy new barber shop has opened, and their sign reads:

Haircuts, $10.

Ten bucks?! Half the price? Joe watches as people who normally would have come to him start heading across the street. The place is loud, the vibe is fast-paced, and people are rushing in like it's Black Friday at a department store.

But here's where it gets interesting

After a while, Joe notices something. Customers are walking out of that shop looking less than thrilled. Some glance at their reflections in passing windows with a look of regret.

Joe ponders his next move. Does he drop his prices? Does he start blasting EDM music and offer speed cuts? Nope.

Instead, the next day, Joe puts up a brand-new sign:

We Fix $10 Haircuts.

Brilliant. Instead of chasing price, Joe doubled down on value.

And just like that, his loyal customers - and some of those disappointed bargain-hunters - came back, knowing that quality, not price, is what matters most.


Quality vs.Price in QA

This story isn't just about haircuts - it's about quality versus price in everything, including software testing and QA.

How many times have you seen a company chase the cheapest option only to realize later that it cost them way more to fix the mistakes?

Let's break it down:

Cheap Testing:

  • Rushed test cycles
  • Lack of proper coverage
  • Minimal documentation
  • "Just ship it" mentality

Quality Testing:

  • Thorough test plans
  • In-depth validation
  • Risk-based testing
  • Long-term reliability

I can't tell you how many times I've seen teams get excited about a cheap or fast solution, only to end up paying for it in bug fixes, lost customers, and damage control later.

For example, the CTO selected a cheaper logging tool, and as a result, it lacked functionality other tools had, such as custom dashboards and the ability to link search queries to the current active log file - making it harder to diagnose issues efficiently.

These cost-cutting decisions often lead to: - Increased time spent troubleshooting - Higher maintenance costs - Poor customer experiences


Pay Now or Pay Later

The reality is simple: You can pay for quality upfront, or you can pay for it later - but you will pay for it.

Just like in the barber story, cutting corners might seem like a good idea at first, but in the end, you'll need someone to fix the $10 haircut (or in this case, the buggy, rushed software release).

So the next time someone asks, "Why does testing take so long?" or "Can we use a cheaper alternative?" - just remember Joe's sign: We Fix $10 Haircuts.

Choose quality. Always.

February 4, 2025

Fix It Right the First Time

Patching in production - it's every QA engineer's worst nightmare and every developer's necessary evil. But here's the thing: a quick fix isn't always a real fix. If you don't fix it right the first time, you're just rolling out a "Version 2.0" of the original problem.

In today's post, we'll dive into a real-world example of why proper patching matters, how bad fixes spiral into bigger issues, and the key takeaways to ensure you fix it right the first time.


Act 1: The $100K Bug

Picture this: The release just went live. The team is celebrating, and the next sprint is on the horizon. But then -

A critical database issue emerges.

Customers with exactly $100,000 in spend are seeing a bug. Panic sets in. A developer rushes out a quick fix and proudly announces:

"Deployed to QA! Issue resolved!"

QA runs a test. The problem disappears. Crisis averted! Right?

Wrong.


Act 2: The $1M Curveball

Just as the dev team is patting themselves on the back, QA runs another check and finds an issue:

Customers with $1 million in spend still have the same problem.

Turns out, the developer's fix was too specific - it only solved the $100K edge case but didn't fix the underlying logic flaw.

The result? More time lost, more stress, and a frustrated CTO wondering why this wasn't caught earlier.


Act 3: The Right Fix ? No Sequels Required

So, what happens next?

This time, instead of another band-aid fix, the team takes the time to analyze the root cause. The result?

  • A real fix that resolves the logic flaw across all spend levels.
  • No more last-minute patches needed in the next release.
  • A cleaner, simpler solution that prevents future surprises.

Moral of the story? A fast patch isn't always a good patch.


The QA Lesson: Test for the Unexpected

This issue wasn't caught before the release because it was an edge case - an inadvertent change in spend calculations exposed an unseen bug. Here's what QA learned:

  • Expand test coverage: Automation tests now include $100K, $500K, and $1M transactions - not just a sample range.
  • Shift left testing: QA collaborates with Devs earlier to ensure they're fixing the root cause, not just the reported issue.
  • Proactive validation: Instead of reacting to bugs, the team tests for unexpected scenarios before they reach production.

The best patch? The one you don't have to make twice. Fix it right the first time.

January 28, 2025

Lessons from the Scooby-Doo Mystery Machine

On my desk at work, among the monitors, keyboards, and Post-it notes, sits a little Hot Wheels model of the Scooby-Doo Mystery Machine. It's more than just a cool piece of nostalgia - it's a daily reminder of what QA is all about.

Let's take a closer look at the Mystery Machine and how it symbolizes the spirit of a great QA team.

Mystery Machine2025


The Mystery Machine: A Rolling QA Headquarters

The Mystery Machine isn't just a van. It's a mobile base of operations where the gang works together to solve mysteries. Inside, Fred crafts the plans, Velma deciphers the clues, Daphne thinks creatively, and Scooby and Shaggy keep things light (and occasionally find accidental solutions).

Sound familiar? That's a QA team in action.

  • Fred is your QA leader, strategizing the test plan.
  • Velma is the analytical mind, poring over logs and data.
  • Daphne represents the creative thinker, finding unconventional ways to break things (and help fix them).
  • Shaggy and Scooby? They're the humor and humanity, keeping spirits high even when the ghost of a recurring bug is haunting the build.

Together, this team tackles mysteries, just like we do when we're debugging or chasing down elusive defects.


Curiosity Fuels QA Success

If there's one trait the Scooby-Doo gang has in spades, it's curiosity. They never stop asking questions:
- What's causing the strange behavior?
- Where's the issue coming from?
- Is there a hidden clue we missed?

QA professionals share that relentless curiosity. It's what drives us to dig deeper when we encounter:
- Features that don't work as expected.
- Bugs that reappear like a masked villain.
- Performance issues that need investigation.

The lesson? Keep asking "why." Peel back every layer until you've uncovered the true culprit. Bugs, like spooky villains, are rarely what they seem at first glance.


"If It Weren't for You Meddling Kids!"

We've all heard Scooby-Doo's iconic line: "And I would have gotten away with it, too, if it weren't for you meddling kids!"

In QA, we're the meddling kids. Bugs try to sneak past us, but we're the ones who say, "Not so fast!" Developers might groan when we uncover another layer of issues, but deep down, they know we're making the product better.

Your meddling ensures that users experience software that is reliable, secure, and high quality. So, embrace the role - you're the hero of the story!


Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

The Scooby-Doo gang doesn't solve mysteries alone, and neither does QA. Fred, Velma, Daphne, Shaggy, and Scooby rely on each other's strengths, and that's what makes them successful.

In QA, collaboration is your superpower:
- Developers help you understand the code.
- Product managers share the user perspective.
- Stakeholders provide valuable insights.

Every voice matters. The best solutions come from combining perspectives and working as a team.


A Reminder for Every QA Professional

The Mystery Machine is more than just a van. It's a symbol of curiosity, persistence, and teamwork - the qualities that make QA essential.

January 21, 2025

All Quality is Contextual

All Quaility Contextual

The late Tip O'Neill, former Speaker of the House, famously said, "All politics is local." This highlights the importance of understanding the unique needs and concerns of individual communities in politics. Similarly, in Quality Assurance (QA), we can say, "All quality is contextual."

This principle means that the effectiveness of QA processes, tests, and standards depends on the specific context of the project, application, or business needs. Just as local concerns shape political decisions, the unique environment and requirements of each product guide QA priorities and strategies.

What Does "All Quality is Contextual" Mean?

  • Subjectivity of Quality: Quality is subjective and varies widely. A sturdy tool might be perfect for a construction worker, while a tech-savvy user might want a sleek, feature-rich device.
  • Purpose and Function: The main function of a product determines its quality. A chef's knife for professional use is judged differently than one for home cooking.
  • Cultural and Temporal Shifts: Quality standards change over time and across cultures. What was once top-notch craftsmanship might not meet today's standards.
  • User Perspective: Individual needs and expectations shape how quality is perceived. One user might value a smartphone's battery life, while another prioritizes the latest camera technology.
  • Economic Factors: Budget affects quality expectations. A durable, affordable product might be high quality for someone with limited resources, while someone with more money might seek premium features and aesthetics.
  • Environment of Use: The intended environment impacts quality assessment. Outdoor gear built for rugged conditions is judged differently than gear for casual urban use.

Practical Implications for QA

  • Tailored Testing Strategies: Develop QA strategies that address each project's specific needs and context.
  • Risk-Based Testing: Focus testing on areas with the highest risk and potential impact based on the product's context.
  • User-Centric Approach: Involve users throughout the QA process to ensure quality is assessed from their perspective.
  • Contextual Documentation: Clearly document the context and assumptions behind QA decisions and test results.

By embracing "All quality is contextual," QA teams can move beyond generic checklists. They can create more effective, efficient, and valuable testing strategies that truly meet each project's unique needs.

January 14, 2025

The `document.designMode` Trick

In the ever-evolving landscape of web development, Quality Assurance (QA) professionals play a pivotal role in ensuring that applications not only function correctly but also provide a seamless user experience. While automated testing tools and frameworks are indispensable, sometimes the most effective solutions lie hidden within the very code we test. Today, we'll delve into a nifty JavaScript trick involving document.designMode and explore other cool techniques that every QA expert should have in their toolkit.

The Magic of document.designMode

What is document.designMode?

document.designMode is a property in JavaScript that allows developers to enable or disable the ability to edit the content of a webpage directly. By setting document.designMode = "on";, the entire document becomes editable, transforming static content into a live, modifiable interface.

How to Use It in Chrome DevTools

  1. Open Chrome DevTools: Right-click on any webpage and select "Inspect" or press Ctrl+Shift+I (Windows/Linux) or Cmd+Option+I (macOS).

  2. Navigate to the Console: Click on the "Console" tab within DevTools.

  3. Enable Design Mode:

    document.designMode = "on";
  4. Edit the Page: Once activated, you can click on any text on the page and modify it directly. This change is temporary and only exists in your current browser session.

Why is This Cool for QA?

  • Quick Mockups: Simulate text changes to test how different content lengths or phrases affect the layout without altering the source code.
  • UI/UX Testing: Instantly visualize how design tweaks impact user experience, aiding in rapid feedback cycles.
  • Bug Reproduction: Easily manipulate page content to replicate issues reported by users, facilitating quicker diagnosis and resolution.

How Cool Is That?!

Absolutely! This simple trick can save QA professionals countless hours by allowing real-time editing and testing of web pages without diving into the codebase.

January 7, 2025

iPhone Announcement: 17 Years Later

iPhone Steve Jobs 2007

Ah, 17 years ago, the world changed forever. Steve Jobs held up the original iPhone, and we all collectively gasped, cheered, and promptly Googled "What is multi-touch?" Fast forward to today, and iPhones have gone from sleek communication marvels to pocket-sized powerhouses that can run augmented reality, 4K video editing, and, if rumors are true, predict the weather better than your local meteorologist. But for those of us in the world of Quality Assurance, the journey has been just as transformative.

The Early Days of Mobile QA:

When the first iPhone launched, QA teams were navigating uncharted territory. Testing mobile apps was like herding cats - except the cats were hidden bugs, the app stores had no clear submission guidelines, and the devices were limited to a few screen sizes (remember when 3.5 inches was revolutionary?). QA engineers often had to physically borrow phones from their coworkers to test compatibility. Emulators? Primitive. Automation? Practically nonexistent.

Every test plan felt like a high-stakes scavenger hunt. Did the app crash when you received a call? What happened if your cat pawed the screen mid-game? These were the burning questions we faced.

The BrowserStack Era:

Fast-forward to today, and tools like BrowserStack have become indispensable. With the explosion of device types, screen sizes, and operating systems, it's no longer practical to have a drawer full of devices (though some QA engineers probably still do). BrowserStack lets you simulate tests on an array of devices and operating systems, saving you from the logistical nightmare of sourcing a Samsung Galaxy A51 running Android 11 at 2 a.m. because "It's crashing for that one user in Tokyo."

Thanks to platforms like this, QA has evolved from reactive testing to proactive strategizing. Now, we're not just asking, "Does it work?" but also, "Does it perform? Is it secure? Does it load fast enough to avoid a one-star review?"

Story Time: The iOS 18.2 Saga

Last year, I got a little overexcited about Apple's latest iOS update, 18.2. Who wouldn't be? Darker Dark Mode, emojis that blink - it was a QA engineer's playground. I updated my personal device the minute it dropped and casually decided to test our company's website.

Surprise! CSS files that once made our site look sharp were suddenly throwing tantrums. Buttons misaligned, fonts replaced with Comic Sans (okay, not really, but it felt like it). It turns out BrowserStack hadn't yet updated to support iOS 18.2, which meant we couldn't immediately validate fixes on their platform. Thankfully, my impulse to "tinker first, debug later" saved the day.

Moral of the story? Sometimes, being a little too eager to update your device can reveal surprises even the best tools haven't caught up to yet. It's also a reminder that human intuition and exploration remain irreplaceable in QA.

Innovations Driving Mobile QA Today:

Mobile QA has seen incredible advancements over the years:

  • Automation Frameworks: Tools like Appium and XCUITest have made regression testing faster and more efficient.
  • AI in QA: Artificial intelligence is starting to predict and identify potential issues before a human even clicks "Run Test."
  • Performance Testing: Ensuring apps perform under all conditions, from slow networks to extreme battery saving modes.
  • Accessibility Checks: QA teams are prioritizing inclusivity, ensuring apps work seamlessly for everyone, including users with disabilities.

Looking Ahead:

Seventeen years after the first iPhone, mobile QA has become more sophisticated, efficient, and yes, even fun. The tools we have today allow us to focus on improving user experience instead of just putting out fires. But as technology evolves, so do the challenges. Foldable phones, AR/VR integration, and who knows what else are just around the corner.

One thing is certain: as long as there are users, there will be bugs. And as long as there are bugs, there will be QA engineers ready to squash them - sometimes with the latest tools, sometimes with sheer determination, and occasionally with a trusty early iOS update.

So here's to the iPhone, the 17 years of innovation it's inspired, and to us - the QA warriors who make sure that innovation works as intended. Let's raise a virtual glass (or an iPhone) to many more years of evolving together!

December 31, 2024

The Top QA Insights of 2024

As the year draws to a close, it's the perfect time to reflect on some of the most impactful topics we explored on QA Tuesdays. This year, we delved into the challenges, strategies, and nuances of Quality Assurance, aiming to empower QA professionals to elevate their craft. Here are the four standout blog posts from 2024 that resonated with readers and sparked meaningful discussions.

1. Why You Shouldn't Use Excel as a Test Case Repository

Published February 6, 2024
Excel might be a familiar and quick option for managing test cases, but it has significant limitations when it comes to collaboration, version control, and scalability. This post highlighted the drawbacks of relying on Excel and explored alternatives like dedicated Test Management tools that streamline QA processes. If you're still using spreadsheets for test cases, this is a must-read.

2. Not All Bugs Are Worth Fixing: Why Some Are Left Behind

Published December 17, 2024
Not all bugs are created equal, and some just aren't worth the effort to fix - whether due to low risk, high effort, or minimal impact. This post explored the strategic decision-making process behind leaving certain bugs unresolved, offering practical insights into prioritization and resource management in QA.

3. Test Ideas in 5 Words or Less

Published August 13, 2024
This post challenged readers to simplify and focus their test ideas, capturing them in just five words. It was a fun yet practical exercise in creativity and clarity that demonstrated how constraints can fuel innovative thinking. The feedback from readers showed that this approach helped sharpen their testing strategies.

4. Heuristics in QA

Published January 30, 2024
QA is as much about intuition and experience as it is about processes. This post introduced readers to heuristics in QA - rules of thumb that guide exploratory testing and decision-making. From "Consistency Heuristic" to "Proximity Heuristic," we explored practical ways to apply these principles in day-to-day testing.

Looking Ahead to 2025

As we gear up for another year of QA Tuesdays, I'm excited to dive into new trends, challenges, and tools shaping the future of QA. Thank you for joining me on this journey to build better processes and create higher-quality software.

Which of these posts was your favorite? Is there a topic you'd love to see explored next year? Drop a comment or send me a message - I'd love to hear your thoughts!

Here's to another year of excellence in Quality Assurance!


Happy New Year!

December 24, 2024

New Podcast: QA in a Box

I'm thrilled to announce the launch of my podcast, "QA in a Box"!

This podcast is designed for QA professionals who are passionate about enhancing their skills, tackling complex testing scenarios, and staying inspired in their work. Each episode is packed with practical insights, actionable strategies, and real-world examples to help you navigate the evolving landscape of Quality Assurance.

What to Expect
Whether you're dealing with challenging testing situations or looking for ways to level up your QA game, "QA in a Box" is your go-to resource. Tune in to discover tips and tools that can make a real impact in your daily workflow.

Recent Episodes
"Five Answers QA Gives to Dev When Testing Changes"
Learn how to effectively communicate with Development teams and bridge the gap between QA and Dev. This episode is full of practical advice for fostering collaboration and ensuring seamless testing.

"Zero Downtime in QA"
Explore strategies for maintaining high-quality standards, even during downtime. This episode dives into optimizing processes when there's "nothing to test" and turning idle moments into opportunities for growth.

Get Involved
I'd love to hear your feedback and ideas for future topics. What QA challenges do you want me to address next? Let me know in the comments or reach out directly - I'm always looking for ways to make this podcast even more valuable for the QA community.

Listen Now
Find the podcast and join the conversation here: QA in a Box

Thank you for your support, and I look forward to embarking on this journey with you!

December 17, 2024

Not All Bugs Are Worth Fixing: Why Some Are Left Behind

As a Quality Assurance (QA) professional, you may have encountered the disheartening situation where bugs you identified and reported were ultimately left unfixed. It can feel like your hard work is undervalued or that you're failing to uphold the quality standards expected of you. But here's the truth: not all bugs are worth fixing.

This concept is not a failure of QA but rather a strategic decision that balances the cost of fixing a bug against the value it brings to the product or the user experience.

The Cost-Benefit Analysis of Bugs

When deciding whether to fix a bug, Product/Dev teams consider factors like:

  • Severity: How significantly does the bug impact the user experience or functionality?
  • Frequency: How often is the bug encountered by users?
  • Cost to Fix: How much time and resources are required to resolve it?
  • Risk of Fix: Could fixing the bug introduce new issues?
  • Deadlines: Is there sufficient time to address the bug without delaying the release?

For example, a minor cosmetic issue on a low-traffic page might not be prioritized if the team is racing against a critical deadline. Fixing such a bug could consume resources better spent addressing more impactful issues.

Reporting Bugs Still Matters

Even if a bug is unlikely to be fixed, QA's role in identifying and reporting it is still critical. Reporting ensures:

  1. Documentation: Bugs are logged and available for review later, potentially in a less time-sensitive release cycle.
  2. Trend Analysis: Patterns of similar bugs could highlight a deeper issue in the codebase.
  3. Awareness: Developers and stakeholders have visibility into the product's imperfections, enabling informed decision-making.

It's important to understand that the decision to leave a bug unfixed is often made by weighing business priorities and resource constraints. This doesn't diminish the value of your work as a QA.

Shifting the Perspective

QA teams can sometimes become frustrated when their bug reports are not acted upon. During my time leading QA discussions, I've found it's helpful to remind teams that:

  • Your job is to find the bugs. Fixing them is a separate process driven by different priorities.
  • You are protecting the customer. By finding bugs before customers do, you ensure a better experience even if every issue isn't resolved.
  • Bugs are like insurance policies. Even when bugs aren't fixed, their documentation can serve as a reference in future discussions about code quality and prioritization.

Why It's OK for Some Bugs to Stay

It's perfectly OK for all bugs not to be fixed. Software development operates within constraints, and addressing every issue simply isn't feasible. But when QA does its job thoroughly, the team has all the information needed to make the best decisions for the product and the users.

At the end of the day, QA's mission is clear: find the bugs before customers do. Even the smallest bugs are worth reporting because their discovery reflects the thoroughness and dedication of your team.

So the next time a bug you reported is left behind, don't be discouraged. Celebrate the fact that you found it first. That alone is a win for quality.

December 10, 2024

PlayWright URL Scraping

While experimenting with Playwright this week, I put together a script that grabs all the URLs from a website and writes them to a file. Here's the code that I finally came up with:

This approach is particularly useful when you need to ensure that all the anchor tags on the homepage are functioning as expected. By verifying the anchor tags separately, you can isolate any issues related to broken or misconfigured links, making it easier to pinpoint and address problems.

Additionally, I'll create another test specifically to validate that the URLs associated with these anchor tags are correct. This two-pronged strategy ensures that both the structure and the destinations of your links are accurate.

Pro Tip: The reason for separating these tasks, instead of validating the URLs while scraping the homepage, is to enhance the efficiency of your test execution. By dividing the workload into smaller, targeted tests, you can leverage parallel execution to speed up the overall testing process. This approach not only reduces the total runtime of your test suite but also provides clearer insights into potential issues, allowing you to debug faster and more effectively.

About

Welcome to QA!

The purpose of these blog posts is to provide comprehensive insights into Software Quality Assurance testing, addressing everything you ever wanted to know but were afraid to ask.

These posts will cover topics such as the fundamentals of Software Quality Assurance testing, creating test plans, designing test cases, and developing automated tests. Additionally, they will explore best practices for testing and offer tips and tricks to make the process more efficient and effective

Check out all the Blog Posts.

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Blog Schedule

ThursdayFinal Cut Pro
FridayMacintosh
SaturdayInternet Tools
SundayOpen Topic
MondayMedia Monday
TuesdayQA
WednesdayPython