Stereotypes in software testing significantly influence the perception and appreciation of this discipline. A study shows that testers come from a wide variety of backgrounds, including theater studies and art - a clear contradiction to classic IT stereotypes. This diversity is particularly valuable as it enables different perspectives on software. Research data shows that only 6% of testers fit the traditional IT stereotype, highlighting the importance of an open and diverse testing environment.
In this episode, I talk to Isabel Evans about her research into software testing stereotypes. Isabel, who started her research in 2017, talks about her work to combat stereotypes in software testing. Her survey of the industry shows that testers come from diverse backgrounds, such as theater studies and art, which contradicts common IT stereotypes. And in testing in particular, this diversity is very important to gain different perspectives on software. Isabel’s research shows that only 6% of testers fit the traditional IT stereotype.
“When I did it with my sample of testers, it was only 6% of them that met that stereotype, and in fact, when you looked at things like the number of people who had arts-related hobbies, it was enormous.” - Isabel Evans
After over 30 years in industry, software quality and testing practitioner Isabel Evans is now a PhD student at the University of Malta. Her research takes a human-centered approach to the development of testing tools. This arose from real experiences in industry and led to the academic papers: ‘Stuck in Limbo with Magical Solutions’, ‘Scared, Frustrated and Quietly Proud’, and ‘Test tools: An illusion of usability’. Research continues with modeling and testing a framework of heuristics to help teams develop and evaluate testing tools. Isabel is the author of the book “Achieving Software Quality Through Teamwork” and has chaired EuroSTAR (2019) and HUSTEF (2018). Her tutorials and storytelling keynotes are very popular at conferences worldwide. She is a Fellow of the British Computer Society and was awarded the EuroSTAR Testing Excellence Award in 2017.
This blog post will break down the key insights from Isabel Evans reseach.
Isabel’s research journey began with a focus on testers’ experiences with various tools. However, as she collected data, she realized the need to refine her hypothesis. This iterative process led her to explore a broader question: Who is actually involved in testing?
Key Findings:
Isabel conducted an industry survey distributed via online networks and conferences. This survey aimed to gather data not only on testing practices and tools but also on the personal backgrounds and hobbies of testers.
Survey Insights:
Isabel references a paper by McChesney, which examined the disconnect between the stereotype of an IT professional and the actual demographics of those working in the industry. The stereotype often portrays IT professionals as socially withdrawn and uninterested in the arts. However, McChesney’s research indicated that only a small percentage of IT professionals fit this stereotype.
Application to Testing:
The conversation highlights how recruitment practices may inadvertently narrow the pool of candidates by reinforcing stereotypes. By recognizing and addressing these stereotypes, the tech industry can foster a more inclusive approach to recruitment and career development.
Actionable Advice:
Diversity in software testing teams leads to more innovative and effective solutions. Testers with varied backgrounds bring unique perspectives and problem-solving approaches, enhancing the overall quality of software testing.
Key Benefits:
To foster diversity in software testing, organizations can take several practical steps:
Recommendations:
y challenging stereotypes and embracing the diverse backgrounds and interests of testers, organizations can create a more innovative and effective software testing environment. Isabel’s research underscores the need for a more inclusive approach to recruitment and career development, ultimately enriching the field of software testing and beyond.
By implementing the actionable advice and recommendations discussed in this blog post, organizations can take meaningful steps towards fostering a more diverse and inclusive workplace, leading to better outcomes and a more vibrant tech community.