A software tester is involved in all stages of the software development lifecycle (SDLC). In the requirements phase, they do requirement analysis. In design, they create use cases and draft test plans. In development, they develop test cases and scripts. In testing, they conduct various tests, log results, and write reports. In deployment, they assist with training documentation. In support, they test production issues. Test engineers are responsible for designing test steps and cases, writing scenarios for stakeholders, reviewing cases, participating in test planning, performing functional and non-functional testing, and logging defects. Key skills for testers include a software engineering background, testing tool knowledge, test planning and development abilities, strong analysis,

1. Career of a Software Tester
Role of a Software Tester
When does the role of a tester start in the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC)?
A Software Tester is required from early stages of SDLC:
In requirements phase – tester does requirement analysis
In design phase – tester does use-case analysis and starts drafting a Test Plan
In development phase – tester start developing test cases and test scripts and finalize the test
plan
In testing phase – conduct various types of tests, maintain logs and test summary reports
In deployment phase – prepare training documentation, lessons learned etc
In support phase – test the production issues.
What are the Responsibilities of Test Engineering?
The responsibilities of a test engineer vary depending on the organization; however, some core activities
include the following:
Design and develop Test Steps- Involved in the preparation of Test Data
Write test cases
Prepare End User Test Scenario Documents for the stakeholders
Participate in Test Case review activities like walkthroughs, inspection etc
Participate in Test Plan preparation
Perform Functional/Non-Functional Testing
Log and track defects in the Defect Management System
Copyright © QAI Global | Page 1 of 2

2. What are the competencies you should be equipped with to be a Test Engineer or Tester?
To become a tester/ test engineer you should be equipped with the following skills:
Software engineering background preferably engineering (BTech, BCA, MCA)
Knowledge of Testing tools (always an added advantage)
Test Planning, Test Case development and Test script execution skills
Good Analysis Skills
Good communication and conflict management skills to work with developers and other project
team members
Good problem solving and organizational skills
Good communication and English skills (in both technical writing and conversation)
Copyright © QAI Global | Page 2 of 2