Successful leadership in software testing requires clear models and a strong quality culture. The ACT2LEAD model offers an approach for establishing testing as a central component of the software development process. It focuses on transparency, context awareness and the balance between automation and human expertise. Learning and the ability to adapt to risks are further crucial elements. A practical handbook supports the effective implementation of these principles and the development of a sustainable testing strategy.
Today’s episode is all about software test leadership. Kari Kakkonen has been working in software testing for decades and introduces us to his ACT2LEAD model. This model focuses on making testing a core part of the software development process and ensuring that it is led effectively. Kari emphasized the need for a quality culture in which testing is transparent and contextual, encompassing both automation and human work. He also talks about the importance of learning and adapting to risk. For those who want to dive deeper, Kari has also developed a handbook on the topic.
“If you need to ask one person how does this software work and what is this software all about you actually should go to the tester. Because the tester has the big picture.” - Kari Kakkonen
Kari Kakkonen has been working in software testing for almost 30 years. He is co-author of the “ACT 2 LEAD Software Testing Leadership Handbook”. Kari is the winner of EuroSTAR Testing Excellence Award 2021, winner of Tester of the Year in Finland Award 2021 and winner of DASA Exemplary DevOps Instructor Award 2023. He is the author and CEO of Dragons Out Oy, which has developed a fantasy book to teach children how to test software. Kari works at Gofore Verify Oy as an Expertise Capability Owner and runs a training company providing software testing, agile, DevOps and AI training in Europe. He works mainly with agile testing, lean, test automation, DevOps and AI.
A crucial aspect of software testing is the lack of leadership. While teams at the operational level manage their tasks well, there is often a lack of an overarching strategy that promotes a culture of quality and innovative testing practices. Although many leaders see testing as necessary, there is often a lack of deep understanding of its importance. This lack can lead to missed opportunities to improve software quality through strategic leadership.
The “ACT2LEAD” model comprises the following elements: Add Testing to Everything, Context-driven testing, Transparency, Automation and Human involvement, Learning, Enabling Quality Culture, Adapting to Risks and Diversity. Each of these elements addresses specific aspects to improve software testing in companies.
Transparency is a central component of the model. An open exchange of information about test processes creates an environment in which all stakeholders can contribute to solving quality problems. However, transparency should be used in a targeted manner so as not to overwhelm stakeholders with unnecessary details. It is equally important to adapt to risks. The focus of testing activities should be on the areas that pose the highest risk.
A balance between automation and human involvement is crucial. Automation increases efficiency by enabling continuous integration and delivery pipelines. At the same time, human creativity is irreplaceable, especially for exploratory testing and solving complex problems. Both elements are essential for a holistic approach to testing.
Testing offers organizations the opportunity to comprehensively understand their software and continuously improve test methods. Testers often have a broader overview of software functionality than other stakeholders. A quality culture is promoted by supporting and establishing good testing practices at all management levels.
Diversity in testing refers to the use of different testing techniques, the integration of different perspectives and the use of versatile tools and methods. This diversity enables more comprehensive and robust test results, as different perspectives can uncover a wider range of errors.
ACT2LEAD serves as a practical framework and checklist for companies that want to improve their test processes. It ensures that all aspects of quality assurance are comprehensively covered. At the same time, it promotes an environment in which quality is not just the responsibility of the testers, but of everyone involved.