Introduction
About 162,900 openings for software developers, quality assurance analysts, and software testers are projected each year, on average, over the decade.
Low-code platforms provide abstracted, guided development, automated testing, and governance to help developers build digital products quickly.
As technology advances, software testers must possess diverse skills to ensure the quality and reliability of software applications.
In this article, let us look into 10 key skills every software tester must have in 2023.
Skills to know as a software tester
As a tester, it is essential to know more soft skills than hard skills because, being a tester, many will have the ability and minimal knowledge of the main skills. Now the below-listed skills are 10 Must have skills for software testers
- Logical and problem-solving skills
- Efficient programming knowledge
- Knowledge of the automation tools
- Communication skills
- Listening to minute detail
- Quality assurance process
- Updating your testing knowledge
- Bug reporting
- Different testing methodologies
- Documentation protocols
Let’s look in detail. Before upgrading your skills as a tester, read why you must update your skills; for clear information regarding the future of testing, read Is Test Automation a Good Career Choice in 2023?
Read the above article?
Now proceed with this.
1.Logical and problem-solving skills
Software testers need strong analytical and problem-solving abilities to identify, isolate, and troubleshoot software defects. They must be able to think critically, dissect complex issues, and propose effective solutions to improve software quality.
2.Efficient programming knowledge
API testing, simple integration testing, and complex integrating system are a few. You are required to integrate yourself into the software development team as a QA professional. That implies you’ll work directly with developers, which might be difficult if you don’t know at least one of the main programming languages.
3.Knowledge of the automation tools
There are several tools, such as Selenium, Katalon Studio, Cucumber, Test Complete, SoapUI, and many other tools, are available. The automated approaches enable you to employ scripts rather than persons. Automated tests may be done frequently without supervision, saving time and money.
4.Communication skills
Testers must clear issues and findings, ensure efficient collaboration, articulate test plans, and be comprehensive. Effective communication is paramount for software testers as they collaborate with developers, project managers, cross-functional teams, and stakeholders.
5.Listening to minute detail
This is a major skill that every human being must possess. The ability to observe and document software behaviour is a fundamental skill for software testers, just like a psychologist who documents human behaviour. They must pay attention to the smallest details to catch potential defects and ensure the software meets the desired requirements and specifications.
6.Quality assurance process
This is one of the hard skills that every tester must possess, irrespective of an amateur or professional tester, as this is one of the key skills for the software to develop in a proper way. They should understand quality assurance principles and be able to contribute to process improvement initiatives, enhancing efficiency and reducing defects.
7.Updating your testing knowledge
Testers must be adaptable and willing to learn new technologies, tools, and testing methodologies in the ever-evolving software landscape. Staying updated with the latest industry trends and continuously improving their skills is essential to thrive in this field.
8.Bug reporting
Knowing the bug id, the testing code’s version number, level indication based on priority, explaining the bug in simpler terms to the head, steps that help to fix the bugs and the status of the bug are a few of the key skills you must have knowledge as a tester.
9.Different testing methodologies
As a proficient tester, you have to know all the testing methodologies. Say, for example, you must know performance testing, white box testing, aggression testing, and other testing methodologies.
10.Documentation protocols
Some of the most valuable ideas you provide as a QA tester are not transferable to any programming language. Everything from the precise processes you employed to the overall thinking process that led to their selection can be invaluable. As a result, excellent note-taking and documenting abilities are required.
Conclusion
These are the top 10 skills you must know to pursue as a software tester.
The software industry is full of scope in the upcoming years; thus, pursuing these skills with the right tools is an added advantage.
From technical proficiency to soft skills such as communication and adaptability, software testers must continuously enhance their skill set to keep up with the ever-changing industry demands.
Just know that as a software tester, you have many roles to play, not just as a QA analyst, automation tester and many others. If you are from Chennai, search for Selenium training in chennai and get your certification.
FAQ’s
1.Can a non-professional IT person become a software tester?
Yes, why not. Learn skills in testing, and get a certified certification course in a well-reputed automation training institution.
2.Does focus on quality assurance benefit software testers?
The answer is Yes; focusing on quality increases productivity, minimizes errors, and contributes to delivering high-quality software applications by knowing quality assurance concepts and actively participating in process improvement projects.
3.Why are communication skills important for software testers?
Software testers need to collaborate with different members of the team and effectively communicate testing progress and issues to stakeholders.
4.What is automation testing and why is it important for software testers?
Automation testing is the use of software tools to execute tests and compare the actual results to the expected results. It is important because it can save time and improve accuracy, especially in situations where repetitive tests are needed.
5.Why is adaptability important for software testers?
Adaptability is essential in software testing as projects frequently evolve, requiring testers to be flexible, open-minded, and receptive to new ideas. This aids in maintaining quality standards and meeting deadlines.
Author’s Bio:
As CEO of TestLeaf, I’m dedicated to transforming software testing by empowering individuals with real-world skills and advanced technology. With 24+ years in software engineering, I lead our mission to shape local talent into global software professionals. Join us in redefining the future of test engineering and making a lasting impact in the tech world.
Babu Manickam
CEO – Testleaf
