The Hidden Value of Software Defects
“What in the world is he thinking?” you may be asking. After all, we know that software defects cause applications to fail, so how can a defect have…
Read article August 1, 2026Ideas worth carrying forward
Insights
Articles, white papers, and practical lessons from more than four decades in software testing and quality.
Experience is most valuable when it is shared.
Explore Randy’s thinking on test strategy, leadership, certification, automation, AI, and the craft of testing.
From Randy’s desk
Latest writing
Practical observations for testers, test leaders, and organizations that want software quality to create genuine value.
What is User Acceptance Testing?
This article was originally published in 2003 and revised on July 30, 2026. Over the past few years, a variety of definitions have been applied to User Acceptance…
Read article July 30, 2026What is Software Testing?
Perhaps you get this question from family and friends. I know I do! Or perhaps you have stumbled upon this site and are wondering what it’s all about.…
Read article July 30, 2026The Elusive Tester-to-Developer Ratio
One of the most frequently asked questions I get is worded roughly:
“Can you tell me what the industry standard tester-to-developer ratio is?”
My answer is “No, because there is no way to get an accurate measurement of such a ratio, especially across the IT industry where some organizations perform no independent testing at all.”
The Elusive Tester-to-Developer Ratio Revisited
While this research is from 2012, I have been continuing to monitor this ratio. Interestingly, the findings are much the same. There is no consistent, identifiable “correct” ratio for testers to developers. The data is highly inconsistent. My conclusion remains the same: you can make just about any ratio work with the right balance of tools, people, and processes. What works for one organization will likely not work for you. Please consider the ratios mentioned as possible benchmarks, not recommendations!
Read article July 30, 2026How to Develop Test Cases and Test Scripts for Web Testing
Test scripting has been a popular way to build testware since the advent of interactive software. With Graphical User Interfaces and web-based interfaces, the use of test scripts should be carefully considered. In some cases, test scripts may apply very well to object and component-based interfaces, while in other cases they may not apply well at all. This article examines the nature of test cases and how to determine the best vehicle for designing a test in the web-based environment.
Read article July 30, 2026Killer Defects and Killer Weeds
Recently, I was listening to a radio interview about genetically modified crops. During the discussion, the guest mentioned the fact that farmers are starting to see “killer weeds.”…
Read article July 29, 2026When Defects Go Big Time
Original publication – Sept. 15, 2013. Revised on July 29, 2026 I remember a conversation with a test manager many years ago who worked for a major airline.…
Read article July 29, 2026What is a “Glitch”?
I try to keep my rants to a minimum, but I reserve the right to rant at least once every six months. I claim my right to rant…
Read article July 28, 2026I Thought I Saw a Defect, Or Did I?
One reason it takes so much longer to perform a test than to use the system in real life is that the tester must carefully observe the results and record them as the test is performed. Both of these tasks, observing and recording, can be difficult, depending on the application and environment.
Read article July 28, 2026