Outsourcing QA can deliver major benefits for software development teams. But how do you actually implement QA outsourcing to ensure success? Follow these key steps!
1. Set Expectations and Requirements
First, clearly define your project requirements, objectives, and QA expectations with the outsourcing provider. Provide access to code, designs, requirements docs and any other relevant materials. Outline the scope of testing, success criteria, timeline, and required team skills.
2. Establish Workflows and Planning
Next, collaboratively establish the overall schedule and QA workflows between your team and the outsourcing partner. Proper planning is critical to implementing a QA strategy that aligns with your process and leads to success. Keep agile principles in mind.
3. Conduct Assessments and Reviews
Leading up to finalizing the contract, undertake assessments and reviews of the established plan and objectives. Ensure the provider's proposed approach, deliverables, timeline, and costs fully meet your needs. Refine details as needed.
4. Define the QA Strategy
Have the provider define their rigorous QA strategy and test plan tailored to your project, including automation, tools, techniques, and thorough test coverage. Review to ensure the strategy aligns with your quality goals and requirements.
5. Resolve Technical Issues
Any software/hardware compatibility issues, access controls, or other technical barriers between teams should be resolved before work begins. Smooth technical collaboration underpins effective outsourced QA.
6. Enable Clear Communications
Open, ongoing communication ensures transparency and coordination. Implement robust systems for information sharing, progress reporting, and troubleshooting. Treat outsourcers as integrated team members.
7. Measure and Optimize
Analyze results at regular intervals - defects found, cases tested, pass rates, etc. Continuously refine processes and strategy based on data and feedback. Stay agile.
Get a QA Assessment from DevPal Experts
Consider having DevPal experts conduct an in-depth QA assessment. This will provide decision makers with a complete picture of where QA stands in your development process and how it can be improved.
Following these steps will help establish the understanding, planning, and processes crucial to unlocking the full benefits of outsourced QA for your development efforts