When we delve into software testing, we often forget that this process is not just about technical skills and tools. Testing is deeply influenced by human factors. During the workflow, both developers and testers face psychological challenges that can significantly affect their work and the final product's quality.
Confirmation bias
Conflicts between software developers and testers often arise because the faults identified during testing are interpreted as criticism of the product and its author. A well-known phenomenon in psychology is confirmation bias, which refers to the human tendency to favor information that supports their preconceptions. Therefore, since developers believe their code is correct, confirmation bias makes it hard for them to accept the code's incorrectness.
Another source of conflict is that often the bearer of bad news is blamed for the existing problem. The results of testing often contain negative information. Due to these psychological factors, some identify testing as a destructive activity, despite its significant contribution to project progress and product quality improvement. Tensions between software testers, product owners, designers, and developers can be reduced if information about errors and malfunctions is communicated constructively.
The importance of communication
To build positive relationships with colleagues, testers and test managers must have outstanding communication skills: according to the ISTQB® CTFL Syllabus issued by the Hungarian Software Testing Council Association, proper communication should include the following:
Focus should be on collaboration, not conflict. It's important to highlight the common goal, which is creating a quality system.
The benefits of testing should be emphasized. For developers, bug reports can help improve their products and skills. From the organization's perspective, identifying and correcting errors during testing can save time and money while reducing overall risks associated with product quality.
Results and findings should be communicated objectively and factually, avoiding criticism of the creators. Objective, fact-based bug reports and review results should be prepared.
Approach with empathy, trying to understand the other party's feelings and the reasons they might react negatively to the information.
Ensure that communication is two-way: both parties should understand each other's messages and viewpoints.
Differing mindsets of developers and testers
Software developers and testers often approach their work in different ways. The primary goal of developers is to design and create the product, while testers focus on checking, validating, and uncovering pre-release errors. These different goals require different mindsets, which, when harmonized, can enhance product quality.
The mindset reflects individual assumptions and decision-making preferences. A tester should be curious, professionally pessimistic, critical, precise, and possess good communication and relationship skills. Through experience, testers' mindsets continuously mature and develop.
The mindset of software developers can often be influenced by testers' thinking. However, successful developers usually focus more on designing and developing solutions than on searching for errors. Confirmation bias can also make it difficult for them to recognize their own mistakes.
Understanding the psychological aspects of software testing is fundamental to the success of product development. Effective communication, collaboration, and harmonization of different perspectives between developers and testers are essential for creating high-quality software. Understanding individual mindsets and motivations helps establish constructive dialogue and continuous improvement in product quality, ensuring the success of software development projects.