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Are software glitches causing post-launch headaches for your business? Or are you struggling with the success of your application software because you don’t know Why QA is important in software development?
If yes, you can certainly imagine how these technical issues can impact the performance and reputation of your business. All the efforts of the team can go to waste by ignoring just one important aspect of the software development cycle, which is Software Quality Assurance (SQA). Implementing SQA is imperative for any company, regardless of its size or industry.
In the fast-paced digital world we live in today, software has become an integral part of our daily lives. From mobile apps to web platforms, software applications are everywhere, simplifying tasks, streamlining processes, and enhancing user experiences.
As per the data published by Statista, the enterprise application software market will reach USD 479 billion by 2026. (Data source: Statista) Amidst this digital revolution, you can't ignore the importance of Software Quality Assurance. Let's delve into why QA is important in software development.
What is Software Quality Assurance (SQA)?
Software Quality Assurance (SQA) simply is a systematic process that ensures software meets predefined standards by systematically monitoring and improving development processes.
It includes varied activities and exercises to test each and every part of the software that helps developers and organizations deliver high-quality software products. Software Quality Assurance has a direct and positive impact on both the internal and external aspects of the software.
SQA impacts software internally by testing the complexity, code reviews, testing, quality checks, responsiveness, and consistency in coding style by the developers. Whereas externally SQA impacts software by checking the functionality, security, reliability, performance, and compatibility along with the maintenance cost.
SQA is not just about finding and fixing problems; it's also about continually improving the development process. It plays a vital role in scaling your business by securing a good reputation for your brand anchored on quality, performance, security, and reliability.
Principles of the Software Quality Assurance
Till now we have discussed what SQA is and the purpose of implementing software Quality Assurance. However, there are a few principles that you should adhere to before implementing SQA. Let's have a look at what are these principles.
- Preventing Defects- The first SQA principle emphasizes preventing defects and issues during the software development process only, rather than relying solely on detecting and fixing them afterwards.
- Proactive Risk Management- The second principle is about identifying and managing the most significant risks associated with software development early in the process.
- Continues Improvement- As SQA is an ongoing and iterative process. It involves regularly assessing and enhancing software development processes and practices based on data, feedback, and lessons learned from previous projects.
- Transparency and Communication: This principle of SQA fosters collaboration among team members and stakeholders, allowing for the sharing of information, issues, and progress updates.
The next question one might have - what Quality standards are followed by Software development teams? Well, typically the organizations adhere to any one of the following standards:
1) ISO 9000 – One of the most widely used criteria for Quality Management Systems across industries.
2) Capability Maturity Model Integrated (CMMI) – This standard lays a strong focus on improvement. It is popular amongst contracts for software development awarded by the United States government.
3) Testing Maturity Model integration (TMMi)- This is essentially based on CMMI. It was launched in 2005 by the TMMi Foundation. This model outlines the software quality standards based on five maturity levels.
Now that we are well-versed in what is SQA, and its principles and standards let’s deep dive into the crux of the topic. Why is it important for businesses to adopt Software Quality Assurance as an integral part of their Software Development Cycle? The section below throws light on this moot question.
Helps in Early Bug Detection
SQA helps identify and fix software defects early in the development process. It prevents costly issues and saves time for the team in later stages.
- Increase Customer Satisfaction
High-quality and bug-free software leads to satisfied customers. Software functions as expected by the client and provides a positive user experience.
- Save Cost of the Company
Detecting and rectifying defects during development is more cost-effective than addressing them after deployment. Detecting issues after deployment may require expertise, which can be heavy on your pockets.
- Compliance
SQA ensures that software adheres to industry standards and regulations, reducing legal and financial risks.
- Increases Reliability
Software Quality assurance enhances the reliability of software, minimizing crashes and system failures.
- Enhanced Security
It helps identify vulnerabilities and security risks and protect sensitive data. This makes your software secure and more effective.
- Better Efficiency
Well-tested software operates efficiently, reducing resource consumption and improving performance.
- Competitive Advantage
Indeed, High-quality software can give a company a competitive edge by attracting more customers and maintaining a positive reputation.
- Maintainability
Software testing and Quality control make software easier to maintain and update over time.
- Risk Mitigation
By systematically addressing potential issues, SQA mitigates project risks and ensures smoother development and deployment processes.
How Software Quality Assurance (SQA) is Different from Software Quality Control (SQC)?
Often Software Quality Assurance is confused with Software Quality Control.
These are two distinct but interconnected processes in the software development lifecycle. The below table shows the differences between SQA and SQC especially pertaining to their goals and approaches. Let's have a look at how SQA is different from SQC.
| Software Quality Assurance | Software Quality Control | |
| Goal | The primary goal of SQA is to ensure that high-quality software products are consistently delivered and meet the demands of the customers. | The main objective of SQC is to ensure that it meets the standards and quality criteria pre-defined for it. |
| Approach | QA is proactive and preventive. The approach is to stop the occurrence of defects and errors. It’s a Validation process. | QC is the reactive and corrective approach. It finds and fixes the defects after they have occurred. It’s a Verification process. |
| Role | SQA is process focused. It encompasses activities like process design, process audits, and process training. | SQC is testing-focused. It includes activities like testing, code reviews, and inspections. |
|
Who does it? |
SQA involves Project Managers, testers, developers, and other stakeholders. | SQC involves Testers, Developers, and External reviewers. |
|
Timing |
SQA activities occur throughout the software development lifecycle, from project initiation to completion. | SQC activities typically occur after the software’s development, during the testing and validation phases. |
Top Software Testing Service Providers in 2023
We have covered the importance of SQA and other information that will guide you in implementing software quality assurance. Yet still if you are not confident as you don’t have enough in-house qualified resources. Don’t worry, you can hire the best QA engineers from the top software development companies offering the best software testing services.
#1. Clarion TechnologiesClarion Technologies is a prominent software development and IT services company known for its excellence in delivering innovative offshore software development solutions.
With a strong global presence and a client-centric approach, Clarion Technologies has earned a reputation for providing cutting-edge software testing services to businesses across categories and scales thanks to its client and quality-centric philosophy.
You can hire the finest Software QA engineers from Clarion Technologies, as they have a talent pool of top-notch software QA testers in the industry.
#2. Infosys
Infosys is a global IT services and consulting firm renowned for its contributions to the tech industry. It is one of the largest IT companies reputed for its expertise in areas such as software development and testing services.
#3. TCS
Tata Consultancy Services offers SQA services including test strategy and planning, test design and execution, automation, and performance testing. With a focus on preventive quality, TCS helps clients deliver software solutions that meet high standards and exceed customer expectations.
#4. Tech Mahindra
Tech Mahindra's SQA experts leverage industry best practices and cutting-edge tools to help clients ensure robust and reliable software solutions, meeting stringent quality standards. Tech Mahindra provides extensive testing services to enhance software product quality.
#5. HCL Technologies
With a strong commitment to fostering innovation and sustainability, HCL Technologies is a key player in the ever-evolving technology landscape. HCL's SQA solutions are tailored to meet specific project needs while adhering to industry best practices.
If you wish to understand the importance of a skilled QA Tester, kindly explore our case study on how our QA testing Engineers helped HR & Insurance Company to develop End-To-End Quality Engineering solution.
A few important Tips for Hiring Software Quality Assurance (SQA) Engineers
When you are on the journey of hiring Software Quality Assurance (SQA) Engineers, it's crucial to find a company or individual who can ensure the quality and reliability of your software products.
- Define Clear Requirements
Start by clearly defining the role, responsibilities, and expectations for the QA Engineer position. This includes understanding the specific skills, experience, and domain knowledge required for your project.
- Write Clear Job Descriptions
Craft detailed job descriptions that highlight the essential qualifications and skills you're looking for. Be specific about the testing methodologies and tools your project requires.
- Technical Competence
Assess candidates for their technical proficiency in software testing tools, test automation frameworks, and relevant programming languages. Ensure they can adapt to your tech stack.
- Experience Matters
Look for candidates with relevant QA experience, especially in your industry or domain. Experienced QA engineers are often more adept at identifying critical issues.
- Problem-Solving Skills
QA Engineers should be skilled problem solvers who can identify, document, and communicate issues effectively. Ask about their experience with bug tracking and reporting.
- Communication Skills
Effective communication is vital. QA Engineers need to collaborate with developers, product managers, and other team members. Assess their ability to articulate issues clearly.
- Test Automation Skills
If test automation is essential for your project, evaluate candidates for their expertise in test automation frameworks, such as Selenium or Appium.
Conclusion :
In today's tech-driven world, prioritizing your Software Quality Assurance (SQA) mandate is not just a choice but imperative for achieving sustainable business growth.
Certainly, investing in SQA makes sure that your product is efficient, secure, and trustworthy. By making Software Quality Assurance (SQA) an integral part of your software development lifecycle, you will be well-positioned to build a robust software solution, reduce operational inefficiencies, and create a favorable brand reputation, which fuels your business success.
Now that you know the importance of SQA, choosing the best software testing engineers at the best price is crucial for ultimate success.
With Clarion Technologies, you are in safe hands. Our expert Software Quality Assurance (SQA) engineers and developers will handle all your project needs. Contact us at info@clariontech.com to learn more about our services.
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