The testing life cycle involves time-consuming, complex processes, so tech teams are constantly working together to smooth out the process and get rid of any time-wasters. We’ve compiled a list of factors that might help you cut the dead ends. 

Incomplete Documentation

The main factor that slows QAs down is the lack of proper documentation on the project. It ranges from inconsistencies from the development team (such as not updating the tickets once new features are released or new requirements arise) to not having a clear system for reporting. 

This leads to hours of work spent trying to figure out what the reality of the project is. Make sure there is an existing system you’re working with – Configuration management tools and databases are a lifesaver!

Lack of Clarity from the Development Team

The development environment could slow QAs down if it takes too long to deploy code or implement requirements. 

It might not seem like a crucial step, but not having a straightforward process will usually lead to extra work and stressful situations.

The QA team has to Set Up Their Environment 

QAs shouldn’t do the configuration for components that need to be ready to test. However, it has a positive side because there is so much more to learn about the technologies used. 

Even so, clear guides are needed to avoid unnecessary research and calls with developers – and get started with the actual testing. This can include setting up an updated build version of the app: updated DB scripts, DB back-ups, roll-backs, roll forwards, etc.

This leads us to the next point: lacking or having no testing strategy.

No Testing Strategy

Exploratory testing sounds flexible but can get chaotic quickly. As testing and development teams have to work hand in hand, any side that doesn’t stick up to the plan can slow down the process and lead to re-work and indecision on how to proceed. 

Management indecision could also cause trouble. Too many interferences from the project manager turn into constant task switching instead of staying dedicated to items long enough to complete them. 

Good planning must begin with management and should always involve a culture built of communication and open to debate and disagreement. 

Inefficient Meetings

We’ve all been in meetings that could’ve been an email. While daily meetings help organize the team, most of them are not run effectively. 

Different working paces or understanding levels of the project are a part of the problem. Still, the lack of action items or a clear agenda is the biggest time killer. Your team must know how to get to the point and incorporate technical feedback and corrective development cycles without a back and forth process. 

The QA team Does Not Have Access to the STLC

STLC (Software Testing Life Cycle) means everything from documentation to planning calls or component review.

QAs are the first to notice how something can break. Therefore they can point out vague or conflicting specifications easier if they have early access. 

Detecting flaws early in the development and testing phases saves time not only for QAs but for everyone – and costs the client a lot less money without the back and forth conversations.

Conclusions: How to Avoid These Problems

  1. Set up the communication tools. Make sure that both messaging and documentation tools are accessible to all teams involved. A ticketing system is not enough if there is no clear messaging channel or daily meeting to discuss the inconsistencies. Most of the time, emails are slow and inefficient.   
  2. Make sure the entire team is involved in the software testing life cycle. The QA should be involved in the development process and have a clear environment to notice flaws early on and cut down working hours and costs. 
  3. Create a clear strategy. Cut task switching to a minimum by setting up a plan from the beginning. Ensure the management team understands the consequences of constant interruptions and is open to debate when it comes to project clarity. 
  4. Have daily meetings with clear action items. Make sure everyone leaves the meeting with precise tasks and has all the needed clarifications.