A QA (Quality Assurance) professional is a technology expert responsible for verifying if a system is running as expected. Additionally, it is their role to identify and prevent bugs. Therefore, those pursuing this career path tend to be quite detail-oriented and possess specific skills.
To discuss how to become a QA and explore the possibilities within this profession, we've invited Rafael Barella, an Agile Lead here at Venturus, to share insights. Let's dive in.
First steps
In the QA universe, professionals specialize in different areas. Therefore, besides having basic knowledge of testing concepts, it's essential to understand which development area you want to work in. For instance, at Venturus, we have QAs focused on mobile and others on desktop systems.
Rafael explains that "several individuals test different aspects of software or apps, especially in a large team." However, you don't need to decide immediately, as with hybrid systems, you can navigate between different worlds. Nevertheless, if you already have a preference, it will make it easier to start studying.
What's next?
To become a QA, it's important to have some basic knowledge of programming languages. Additionally, intermediate knowledge of the English language is essential since many tools used in the field are available only in English. If you're not familiar with any programming language, start your studies with programming logic, a skill that will greatly help when learning an actual programming language.
Rafael emphasizes that understanding the analyzed system and having programming knowledge to operate tools are essential to becoming a QA. He suggests starting with the Python language, commonly used for test development. If you already master the necessary languages for your desired QA area, you can move on to studying basic testing concepts, such as:
- The importance of testing
- Testing processes
- Test cases
- Existing testing techniques
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How to study
Yes, it is possible to self-study! While degrees in System Analysis and Telecommunications provide a foundation, our Agile Lead notes that "there are many globally recognized testing certifications." He recommends certification as ideal for starting in this career and mentions ISTQB, a comprehensive certificate for aspiring QAs.
In this journey to become a QA, another crucial aspect is automated testing. These tests, conducted through tools, make the QA profession more practical. Therefore, it's important to study how they function and the tools where these automations run.
Good communication is very important
For those wondering how to become a QA, this journey goes beyond theoretical studies. Rafael explains why: “knowledge is crucial, but behavior will help when applying it in practice.” As a QA, you'll need a good relationship with everyone on your team, especially developers. Your communication needs to be assertive and empathetic, meaning you have to be someone who speaks and listens well.
Moreover, all reports and defects need to be well-written to show that the “issue” is in the code and not the person. In the end, the defect is not an attack but a contribution to better results—this needs to be clear and transparent in communication.
Curiosity in the form of care
Those working in testing also need to be highly organized. This professional receives a lot of information and needs to create a script based on client expectations or other stakeholders. “These are what we call test cases,” and they need to be carefully applied to ensure the best results.
Lastly, it's worth noting that a QA specialist needs to be highly curious. Rafael explains that the list of requirements—indications of expected software functionalities—often isn't enough to indicate the necessary tests. Therefore, the testing analyst needs to consider who will use the product and investigate the path they might want to take in its application. “We can never expect the user to do what needs to be done,” says Rafael.
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Learn about our culture
Now that you know where to start to become a QA, discover our Careers page! There, you will receive our first-hand opportunities, as well as get to know what it's like to work at Venturus.
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