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6 Key Considerations in Choosing a Software QA Test Company

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The last decade and particularly 2020 has proven that software is an integral part of our lives. We rely on it for almost everything from banking and working out to shopping and working remote. We are so dependent on technology and software that we take it for granted. . . until we don’t.

When streaming apps like Netflix, Amazon, or Disney flicker or crash, we get frustrated. When the software protecting the online security or productivity for our business fails, we panic. Software testing companies like QualityLogic are positioned to help ensure a seamless connection in our work and our lives. Without the support of the companies we love and the software we rely on, we would flounder.

Software test services from software quality assurance (QA) companies play a vital role in the success of businesses large and small. These testing companies make it their focus to ensure the software functions as users expect and the experience is smooth, but that is not all. Here are 6 important points to consider when looking at a software QA company.

1. QA Testing Evolves Along with the Software

The speed of technology continues to push software development, requiring a fast response in keeping up with and capturing market opportunities. Business is powered by software. Software is prone to defects and although it is the responsibility of business owners and to ensure a quality product, that is not always possible given the speed to market. So, how can companies be sure that the software bugs are found? The answer is not that simple, but it starts with software testing. The biggest software testing challenge comes with the speed of every software release. As release cycles get shorter, it becomes more difficult for QA to test software between releases or updates.

Fortunately, software test companies like QualityLogic are built to support quick sprints and continuous integration. QualityLogic collaborates with developers in real-time to make sure new features and fixes are quick to customers and users. QualityLogic also helps to ensure any defects that are inadvertently introduced into the system are quickly identified for remediation by the client. The QualityLogic standard is to take a more holistic software testing approach to ensure that no unexpected behavior occurs during product integration.

2. QA Testing Onshore Saves Time and Money

Just like many other tech consultancies, software QA testing is sometimes outsourced to countries outside of the United States. The most quoted reason is pricing, but that is not as straightforward as it seems. With an onshore QA testing team, you’ll experience a significant increase in software QA efficiency over an offshore alternative. You eliminate the language, cultural, and time zone challenges that are often associated with outsourcing to offshore testing. The cost savings from a more integrated QA testing process can outweigh the deceivingly low cost of offshore testing firms.

3. Managed QA Services for Flexibility and Focus

Software QA requirements can vary and so too can the operations that manage them. That is why most companies have come to rely on a flexible QA service model that can accommodate needs quickly and accurately.

With a wide range of QA testing skillsets and an even broader knowledge base of software test services, QualityLogic can adapt quickly to any software testing requirements. A flexible software test services model is vital in delivering better quality software from the start — using a tailored approach that provides support for agile and lean development environments. The focus on getting to know the company and the operation is an immediate priority. By integrating into the workflow, it is possible to become an extension of the company by integrating directly into the workflow, creating a streamlined process and transparent collaboration. A leading software testing company like QualityLogic supports a flexible QA testing approach by integrating into the software development process with continuous communication and indisputable clarity.

4. QA Outsourcing Creates Scalability without the Strings

Often companies are faced with an ebb and flow in the QA testing workload where inconsistencies in the volume of work make it difficult to hire a full-time position while at other times the workflow demands maximum capacity to meet release schedules. Outsourcing software test services can be the most effective tactic in addressing that situation, and QualityLogic makes it a fluid process with its ability to ramp up and down as needed. The QualityLogic managed QA services team makes it a priority to understand comprehensive business processes, from technical software to ERP systems. This integration and holistic perspective are critical in creating the most efficient path to growth.

Additionally, when you integrate a responsive onshore software testing team, you free your development teams to release faster – which can result in improved revenues, better services and products, and more satisfied customers. And by outsourcing software test services, you add flexibility and scalability to your development cycle – without the HR and recruitment costs in time and money. QualityLogic streamlines the process by bringing proven solutions based on over three decades of experience and well-vetted experts.

At QualityLogic, we are experts at providing managed software QA services, but we also firmly believe that relationship is everything. To that end, it has been vital to developing a workflow that can be integrated into our client’s process so engineers on both sides can highlight findings and share with developers no matter where they are located.

5. QA Testing Knowledge Ahead of the Market

The ability to stay informed and trained in the latest software, technology, and compliance is critical. Along with software testing, website accessibility and compliance are evolving almost daily. A QA testing company will need to evolve right along with it and sometimes ahead of it. At QualityLogic, we hold ourselves accountable to best practices in online capabilities and compliance. Awareness of an expanding online environment pushes us to deliver up to date solutions when it matters most, especially for equal access and function to every website user.

Recent litigation has prompted decisions that have bolstered the requirements for web accessibility not only for the blind but for any disabled user. The Americans with Disabilities Act requires businesses to make their websites and other online platforms accessible to those with disabilities. Maintaining website compliance can seem daunting but a reputable mobile, software and web accessibility testing team can help. The hardest part is finding the right team, but since you’re reading this post, you’re already on the right path.

Implementing robust web accessibility testing techniques and processes have become just as important as choosing the most credible web design or marketing team. Advancements in technology have presented issues and experiences that have fostered an entire industry. Quality testing companies like QualityLogic have made it their business to know what you don’t. Application accessibility testing is just one of those areas which is why adaptability and consistent in-house training on the evolution of software and compliance are critical in addressing current market requirements.

6. Partnership is Priority for our Software Testing Success

We get that outsourcing a business function as important as software testing service can be daunting. Leadership has the responsibility to safeguard against technical breaches. There might be a fear of losing control or concerns over security and intellectual property. Understanding those fears is why we make it our priority to start the process by building a trusting and transparent partnership. Our focus on the success of a project is just as important to us as it is to you. We’ll take the time to get to know you and the way you operate so we are aligned in all aspects of the collaboration. We are as invested in the accomplishments as you are, so much so that we guarantee our work.

The responsibility to be the perfect software testing partner matters to us, so we offer a unique pilot program to ensure our companies align in both culture and capabilities. You’ll get to know us inside and out. Here are a few of the things we think make for strong partnerships and the best service:

  • QualityLogic team members are embedded directly into our client’s development team and work symbiotically with your developers to help ensure the best product and seamless user experience.
  • Depending on the program scope, most development teams have a QA team member assigned to support the development efforts. The teams work together to establish priorities and focus areas to make sure functionality is tested thoroughly and efficiently.
  • To maximize efficiencies in the testing process, QualityLogic has designed a workflow support system that aligns with our client’s daily work schedule. This allows the developers to have continuous support from the QA team which makes for a more dynamic and real-time workflow.
  • QualityLogic is also committed to supporting clients during product releases that occur outside of normal working hours. The QA team is part of the release process from the initial design through to the final product launch.
  • The QualityLogic team can be involved in all aspects of the sprint planning and actively participate to make sure every new feature has clearly defined acceptance criteria. By working with our client to define that criteria before new code implementation, both the developers and QA team have a clear understanding of all features and functions in the same context.

BONUS TIP: Evaluate the Costs

Let’s be real: one of the biggest points most businesses have to consider when evaluating software QA testing is the cost. As you look at options, keep these factors in mind when reviewing the cost of software QA testing:

  • Hourly rates vs. project-based pricing: Some QA testing companies charge an hourly rate for their services, while others offer project-based pricing. Hourly rates can be more flexible, but they can also be more difficult to budget for. Project-based pricing can provide more certainty about the total cost of the project, but it may not be as flexible if the scope of the project changes.
  • Onshore vs. offshore testing: The cost of QA testing can vary depending on the location of the testing team. Onshore testing teams typically charge higher rates than offshore teams. However, offshore teams may have less experience with your business’s specific needs. QualityLogic offers US-based software testing services as well as an innovative hybrid model, with testing done both onshore and offshore through our vetted partners.
  • The level of experience of the testing team: The more experienced the testing team, the higher the cost will be. However, a more experienced team is likely to be more efficient and effective, which can save you money in the long run.
  • The complexity of your project: The complexity of your software project will also impact the cost of QA testing. More complex projects will require more testing time and resources.

Connection Makes All the Difference When Choosing a Software Testing Company

So, when it comes down to it, the ability to test software is just a part of the work that needs to be done. We take pride in the relationships we have built both internally and with our external clients. Accountability and trust are just as important to our business as the best programs, tools, and skill sets. Strong connections inspire extraordinary collaboration and mutual success.

Interested in Learning More About Outsourcing Your QA Testing? Let’s Talk!

Author:

Gary James, President/CEO

Over the last 35+ years, Gary James, the co-founder and president/CEO of QualityLogic, has built QualityLogic into one of the leading providers of software testing, digital accessibility solutions, QA consulting and training, and smart energy testing.

Gary began his QA journey as an engineer in the 1970s, eventually becoming the director of QA in charge of systems and strategies across the international organization. That trajectory provided the deep knowledge of quality and process development that has served as a critical foundation for building QualityLogic into one of the best software testing companies in the world.

In addition to leading the company’s growth, Gary shares his extensive expertise in Quality Assurance, Software Testing, Digital Accessibility, and Leadership through various content channels. He regularly contributes to blogs, hosts webinars, writes articles, and more on the QualityLogic platforms.