I had been reading testing blogs for years before joining the testing team at work. I was a regular reader of Keith Klain’s Quality Remarks, James Bach’s Satisfice, Andy Glover’s Cartoon Tester, Scott Barber’s Peak Performance (infrequent updates), Jonathan Kohl’s blog, Michael Bolton’s Develop Sense, Anne-Marie Charett’s Maverick Tester, and Cem Kaner’s Blog. I followed the Twitter conversations about the definition of “Testing” and the visionary future of the field.
But when I actually joined the testing team, I realized I was still a stranger to the culture. I had been consuming content from the internet, but that’s completely different from being fully submerged in the day-to-day plights and passions of the individuals on the team.
I wish I knew where similar meta-level conversations happen around other aspects of software craftsmanship. Most conversations I’ve spotted in other fields focus on highlighting the latest cool tool or technology. The focus on long-term sustainability and improvements might not be happening in the recorded public spaces.
Now I’m listening to conversations and asking questions. I hope to be able to contribute meaningfully to my new family. I need to give thought to my direction, as there are many roads that can be traveled.
I collected some of what I’ve learned in a guide for people building a testing career.