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Tech from the Trenches Chapter 9
The Importance of the QA Role in an Agile Squad Team
Esperanza Echeverría provides her perspective on the QA role in agile software development teams. With 20 years of experience in the field, she has dedicated 50% of her professional career to testing and the other 50% to development.
She is a positive person who loves learning and acquiring new skills and knowledge.
She entered the quality field somewhat unexpectedly due to motherhood. Initially, she had to adapt to this change and delve into the knowledge of this discipline. This experience demonstrates the need to “test” to find one’s place in the world of development.
Bruno and Enrique discuss with Esperanza that initially the QA position did not receive the importance it deserved, but it can be seen that it is gaining more weight and significance in projects.
How do you view the role of QA in an agile environment, and what differences do you observe compared to more traditional organizational models?
In my opinion, I see the role of QA as fundamental in an agile environment and notice significant differences compared to more traditional organizational models.
One of the first differences lies in the timing of the tester’s involvement in the project, as in more traditional models, the QA profile gets involved in the later stages of the project.
However, this changes with Agile.
Agile is not simply about finishing earlier or faster; it is about delivering in a different way. Additionally, simply labeling your teams as “Agile Squads” does not mean you are working in an agile manner. Working within this framework requires a change and mastery of this working methodology.
In Agile projects, the QA should be present from the beginning, even in the drafting of User Stories (US) to be developed. Their work helps refine the US further, significantly clarifying the requirements for developers. Furthermore, developers can have a prior understanding of the tests that their future code must pass in order to be delivered with quality. In summary, this reduces doubts, waste, errors, and frustrations.
How can the need for a QA profile in the initial stages of a project be convincingly justified from an economic point of view?
To develop effective test plans, it is crucial to have people with the necessary functional knowledge. Skipping the initial phase of understanding the business context being addressed may result in important aspects being overlooked and not tested properly. The end result will be lower-quality software and, consequently, a more costly project overall.
Can a tester work on multiple projects simultaneously?
The ability for a tester to work on multiple projects simultaneously depends on the company and the product being developed. It is common for a QA professional to effectively handle 2 or 3 projects at the same time, but managing a larger workload can hinder performance.
Having a dedicated tester working 100% of their time on a single project can offer significant benefits. This allows the tester to fully focus on the project, covering various aspects such as bug identification and reporting, test automation, and more.
How can the QA area be reconciled with different Agile squads that have an assigned QA profile?
The QA area does not disappear; instead, there is often collaboration between the QA area and different Agile squads. It is like having a QA community within the company, especially to address doubts about how to perform their tasks.
In this regard, the QA area can adopt a collaborative approach where the QA profile assigned to each squad works closely with the central QA area. This ensures alignment in terms of standards, best practices, and testing methodologies throughout the organization.
What types of work does a QA profile perform in an Agile squad?
A QA profile performs several important tasks in an Agile squad. Firstly, they clarify User Stories (US), which is crucial for developers. The QA profile can define and design test cases using the available functional information, and collaborate with
the rest of the team to review and validate the desired test plan.
Another characteristic is the collaboration and mutual support among all team members. Esperanza mentions that she can provide support in code submissions management and even develop unit tests. However, she clarifies that it is more common for a developer to assist the QA profile in test automation.
Previously, the QA role was seen as the ‘police’ chasing after developers, but it is evident that in the Agile philosophy, the approach is much more collaborative. So, what is the future of testing?
The future of testing is envisioned as a figure integrated within the team, where the QA professional does not act as a police officer but as a member who helps detect potential issues and resolve doubts. The QA becomes a collaborator who brings their perspective and experience to improve software quality.
Manual testers will not disappear; it is a misconception to think so. Manual testers play an important role in the analytical part, defining tests that need to be automated and maintaining them. Therefore, the role of testers, especially manual testers, will have a long professional projection.
Automated tests are a great help as they free up resources from repetitive and low-value tasks. However, manual testers allow for exploratory testing, for example, which can uncover more random aspects that would not be found through automation.
How important is the ISTQB certification for a QA professional? What has it brought to your career to have pursued it?
Although it may be seen as a mere “piece of paper” in some cases, for Esperanza, the ISTQB certification holds great importance. Preparing for this certification provides information about all areas of testing, the qualities a tester should possess, and other relevant aspects.
The ISTQB certification has provided Esperanza with solid knowledge and a deeper understanding of best practices in the testing field. It has allowed her to acquire a strong foundation and a broad perspective on all the possibilities offered by testing.
Furthermore, in Esperanza’s particular case, there is an ISTQB Agile version that includes specific changes related to the working methodology in an Agile squad. This has provided valuable information tailored to her work environment, enabling her to effectively apply testing practices in an Agile context.
In this closing phase, we ask Esperanza to provide us with some sources of knowledge:
- Follow Javier Garzás on social media and explore interesting books to delve into Agility.
- Take courses on Udemy, watch YouTube videos, and review QA certification materials, such as ISTQB.
- It’s important to stay up-to-date with any emerging trends, so attending talks, joining specialized LinkedIn groups, and similar activities are recommended. Embrace curiosity and review job offers to identify areas where you can deepen your knowledge.
- English proficiency is crucial due to the international nature of our field. Be a sponge and absorb all the knowledge you can.
In summary, following experts on social media, exploring educational materials, participating in events, and staying updated are key strategies to expand and strengthen your knowledge in the QA field.
What advice would you give to people starting their professional careers?
Don’t be afraid of change and remember that “experience is worthless in someone else’s eye“. Time gives you the opportunity to make mistakes and learn in your professional career.
Additionally, it’s important to have a positive attitude both in approaching your work and interacting with your colleagues.
We’ll see you in the upcoming editions of Tech from the Trenches, and as always, you can follow us on our social media channels:
Tech from the Trenches Chapter 8
Revolutionizing the ConstrucTECH Sector
Gabriel Cambra, a civil engineer graduated from the Polytechnic University of Valencia and CEO of CubicUp, a sustainable neoconstruction company with the goal of making a mark in this industry, shares his entrepreneurial story with us.
Gabriel always had a desire to venture into the digital realm, although he gained extensive experience working in architecture firms and large construction companies. He participated in engineering projects in countries such as Algeria (Algiers), England, France, and Colombia.
What is CubicUp?
CubicUp initially started as a marketplace for renovation projects, but over time they realized they wanted to have complete control over the user experience. Thus, they took the step to become a specialized neoconstruction company focused on renovations.
Precise design is one of the key aspects, as there is a lack of information about actual costs in this field. Through the use of BIM 360 technology, CubicUp standardizes and customizes both comprehensive and urban core renovations.
Enrique and Bruno asked him some questions:
There aren’t many technology-based projects in the construction sector. What is the reason for this?
The lack of projects in the construction sector can be attributed to several reasons. One of them is that digitization in this field has followed a wave-like process, meaning it has been gradual and based on the complexity of tasks.
If we talk about waves, we could mention the first wave of digitization, which focused on sectors like tourism, takeout food, etc. In a second wave, we saw digitization in sectors such as freelance work, Fintech, Insurtech, and Proptech.
In the construction sector, digitization has become more challenging due to the need to rely on various SaaS (Software as a Service) technologies. Companies can utilize these platforms to integrate and focus on the core areas that need to be digitalized.
Although significant effort is required to digitize the construction sector, it is a process that the industry is gradually adopting, and it is part of that third wave of digitization where there are significant opportunities.
As technology continues to advance and specific solutions for the sector are developed, we are likely to see an increase in digitization and the implementation of new tools and processes in the construction industry.
What technologies do you see that can help accelerate this third wave?
To accelerate this third wave of digitization in the construction industry, Gabriel emphasizes the fundamental role of Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology, which enables efficient management through the creation of digital twins. Specifically, in the realm of PropTech, the impact of BIM will be significant.
The use of BIM goes beyond 3D renders. It allows for the standardization of the entire project development process, providing numerous benefits, such as:
a) Calculation of carbon footprint: BIM enables the accurate and efficient calculation of a project’s carbon footprint.
b) Detailed information in each module for price optimization: Each component of a project can be parameterized in BIM, providing precise and detailed information for price and resource optimization.
c) EPD (Environmental Product Declaration) sheets with certified CO2 emissions: BIM facilitates the generation of EPD sheets that provide information on environmental impact, including certified CO2 emissions. This helps make informed and sustainable decisions.
d) Energy efficiency and reduced environmental impact: Through BIM, all construction processes can be optimized to minimize CO2 emissions. Gabriel highlights that, on average, a renovation carried out by CubicUp has a 30% lower environmental impact in terms of CO2 emissions.
Gabriel gives an example of the importance of working with high-quality window suppliers, as windows have a significant impact on energy efficiency and emission reduction. In summary, BIM technology plays a key role in accelerating digitization in the construction industry, enabling more efficient and sustainable project management
What challenges does the construction industry face?
Despite the challenges, Gabriel has a very positive outlook on the construction industry. Socially and professionally, the boom experienced in 2008 has led millennials, who are now buying their first homes, to seek renovations. These new homeowners desire a more digital experience in the construction and renovation process. Additionally, there is also a greater presence of young and conscious professionals with well-developed technological skills and habits in the field of renovations.
Despite the competitive challenges and talent demands, the positive perspective and increasing adoption of digitalization in the construction industry suggest a prosperous future for the sector.
Dependency on third parties in terms of deadline control?
Dependency on third parties for deadline control is a significant challenge in the construction industry. Unlike the construction industry, which has experienced a higher degree of industrialization, the renovation process still largely relies on artisanal methods. In the case of CubicUp, they have developed an execution manual that relies on efficient guilds aligned with the working methodology promoted by Gabriel and his team.
To maximize efficiency and replicability, CubicUp seeks specific project typologies. Additionally, they employ a collaborative Lean construction methodology that involves artisans throughout the renovation process. This methodology fosters active participation and collaboration among all involved in the project, helping streamline deadlines and optimize execution.
Although the construction sector has traditionally been closed and heavily relied on third parties for deadline control, the implementation of methodologies like Lean Construction and future industrialization have the potential to reduce this dependency and improve efficiency in construction and renovation projects.
Is it good to train your people?
Training our team is essential to us. We have a team of 23 people, and our challenge is to be better leaders and maintain a strong corporate culture in which employees believe in the project. It’s something we must constantly work on.
To achieve this, we consider it essential to have clear and defined company values. During the hiring process, we pay special attention to the alignment of candidates with these values. Additionally, it is important for our project to be inspiring, and for employees to see a path and opportunities for growth. As a startup presenting ourselves as a sustainable NeoConstructor disrupting the sector, challenges become more enriching and appealing.
We never stop emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and growth. Moreover, we foster a collaborative learning environment where team members can share knowledge and experiences.
Artificial Intelligence. What impact do you see?
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is having a significant impact on our industry. I am optimistic in this regard and see great opportunities that AI can offer. At CubicUp, we are working with generative systems that allow us to generate more efficient and optimized alternatives for our projects.
AI gives us the ability to thoroughly analyze and evaluate all possible alternatives, which helps improve decision-making in project planning and execution. Additionally, in the marketing domain, AI enables us to generate visually appealing variations, contributing to a more impactful presentation of our projects.
On the construction side, AI is also being used to connect with more predictive systems. Advanced AI systems exist that enhance project monitoring, enabling greater efficiency in project management and control. Furthermore, each house or project has a specific model used to train and generate data that feeds the AI system.
We conclude the event, adding value with references and sources of information that Gabriel wanted to share with us:
Gabriel recommends an “amazing” book:
We also asked him for a learning or advice for future professionals:
“Never try to find a quick path to things, especially for those of us who are not geniuses, and do good. People who do things well without malice tend to do well in general.“
We look forward to seeing you in future podcasts, guys and girls from the trenches.
We invite you to subscribe to our streaming channels and podcasts:
Tech from the Trenches Chapter 7
You take the wheel of your professional career.
Tech from the Trenches Chapter 6
15 years of international remote work experience in Switzerland, Germany, Slovakia, and the USA.
Tech from the Trenches: Chapter 5
Bootstrapping: Building a startup from scratch through self-financing.
Tech from the Trenches Chapter 4
Key factors for creating a successful startup.
Tech from the Trenches – Chapter 2
Raising investment in the early stages of your startup. How a CFO can help grow your project.
Tech from the Trenches – Chapter 3
Agile: Lights and Shadows of a Transformation
Marisa Otero has had an uncommon professional career that has led her to the Agile world with a truly interesting approach. Marisa has worked and ventured in the field of marketing, and as it is becoming increasingly common, she has combined her knowledge in this field with her learning of Agile methodologies. This has allowed her to develop a unique and fascinating discourse on agility.
During the question phase, we asked Marisa a series of questions, such as:
Does agility hurt? To this, Marisa emphasizes the need to look beyond what is “obvious” in the company’s culture and be brave in the task of permeating all areas during this process of change.
What are we looking for when we want to apply Agility? Primarily efficiency and productivity, as Marisa mentions. However, we can go further and analyze how it can help team members feel important and aware of the project’s goals and objectives.
Why make the effort? Our guest highlights the benefits of these methodologies in bridging business and technology, along with many other tips that you can listen to and see in the interview.
What benefits can be obtained?
- Having self-managed teams.
- Working in an environment of psychological safety (self-confidence).
- Receiving feedback from colleagues.
- Quick learning.
We touched on controversial and interesting topics such as team commitment, finding meaning in what we do, team motivation, and leadership 3.0.
Our friend emphasized three key factors that can make a difference between a successful implementation of agility or not:
- Strong support from the company’s C-Levels.
- Assessing whether the company’s culture aligns with the principles of Agile methodology. Withdrawing at the right time can save time and costs.
To conclude the event, we provided valuable references for further exploration.
Here are some books you can delve into:
Podcast:
And we conclude with the learning that Marisa would have liked to internalize years ago:
“I wish I had discovered coaching earlier and used this tool to explore my true professional purpose.”
We look forward to seeing you in future podcasts. See you, guys and girls from the trenches.
We invite you to subscribe to our streaming channels and podcasts:
Tech from the Trenches – Chapter 1
Qué nos puede dar hoy la IA, qué nos dará en el futuro y cómo eso nos puede llevar a la utopía o a una distopía.