Manual testing: Ensuring quality software
Manual testing is a crucial part of the software development lifecycle. It involves systematically checking software for bugs, usability issues, and deviations from requirements without the use of automated tools. A skilled manual tester meticulously explores the software, mimicking real-user scenarios to identify potential problems before they reach the end-user. This hands-on approach allows for nuanced evaluation of the user experience, catching subtle issues that automated tests might miss.
What to look for in a freelance manual tester
When hiring a freelance manual tester, look for a combination of technical skills, analytical thinking, and excellent communication. Essential qualities include:
- Strong understanding of software testing methodologies (e.g., agile, waterfall)
- Experience with various testing types (e.g., functional, usability, performance)
- Proficiency in creating detailed test cases and documenting results
- Excellent communication and reporting skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Main expertise areas
Different manual testers specialise in different areas. When briefing a freelancer, consider these key areas of expertise:
- Web application testing: Evaluating websites and web applications across different browsers and devices.
- Mobile application testing: Testing apps on various mobile platforms (iOS, Android) and devices.
- Usability testing: Assessing the user-friendliness and overall user experience of the software.
- Performance testing: Evaluating the software's responsiveness and stability under different load conditions (though this can also be automated).
- Accessibility testing: Ensuring the software is usable by people with disabilities.
Relevant interview questions
Here are some questions to ask potential freelance manual testers:
- Describe your experience with different testing methodologies.
- How do you approach creating test cases and documenting test results?
- Tell me about a time you identified a critical bug. How did you report it?
- What are your preferred tools for managing and tracking bugs?
- How do you stay up-to-date with the latest testing trends and technologies?
Tips for shortlisting candidates
- Review portfolios and testimonials.
- Look for candidates who demonstrate a clear understanding of testing principles and have a proven track record of identifying and reporting bugs effectively.
- A good portfolio will showcase a variety of projects and testing approaches.
Potential red flags
Be wary of candidates who:
- Lack a clear understanding of testing methodologies.
- Cannot provide specific examples of their testing experience.
- Have poor communication skills.
- Are unwilling to adapt to different project requirements.
Typical complementary skills
Manual testing often goes hand-in-hand with other skills, such as:
- Test automation
- SQL and database management
- Understanding of agile development methodologies
- Knowledge of specific software development tools (e.g., Jira, Trello)
Benefits of hiring a freelance manual tester
Hiring a freelance manual tester can bring numerous benefits to your project:
- Improved software quality: Identifying and resolving bugs early in the development process leads to a higher quality end product.
- Enhanced user experience: Manual testers can provide valuable feedback on the usability and overall user experience of your software.
- Cost-effectiveness: Freelancers offer flexibility and scalability, allowing you to tailor your testing efforts to your specific project needs.
- Faster time to market: By identifying and resolving issues quickly, manual testers can help accelerate the development process.
- Reduced risk: Thorough testing minimises the risk of releasing software with critical bugs, protecting your reputation and user base.
Real-world examples
Consider these examples of how manual testing is applied:
- E-commerce platform: A tester manually checks the checkout process, ensuring all payment gateways function correctly and that order confirmations are sent successfully. They also verify the responsiveness of the site on different devices.
- Mobile game: A tester plays through various levels of a mobile game, looking for glitches, performance issues, and inconsistencies in gameplay. They also test the game's compatibility with different operating systems and screen sizes.
- SaaS application: A tester explores all features of a software-as-a-service application, verifying data integrity, user permissions, and integration with other systems. They also perform usability testing to ensure the application is intuitive and easy to navigate.
