Mastering testing: skills every tech tester needs
The role of a software tester in a technology company goes far beyond running simple checks. It requires strong technical knowledge, analytical thinking, and the ability to ensure high-quality software across complex systems. Artur Ciesielski, Test Engineer at Altimi, shares his experiences, challenges, and insights into the testing process, including manual testing, automated testing, and test automation best practices.
Career path and current role in software testing
Artur has been working at Altimi for almost six years. He is currently involved in a Scandinavian project delivering a warehouse management solution. His main responsibilities include backend testing, automating REST API tests using POSTMAN, and ensuring high-quality software deliverables.
Core responsibilities of a software tester
Software testers perform manual and automated testing, report bugs, and create detailed test cases. The main goal is to minimize errors in every software release.
“In large projects, catching all bugs is impossible due to multiple configuration options, but testers focus on preventing critical errors that affect the end-user experience.”
Proper documentation of automated tests and using tools like Performance Measurement Tool are essential. Testers also clarify business requirements during case creation and participate in Scrum or Kanban meetings to keep the development team informed about critical issues.
Programming skills and best practices for testers
As Artur says: “A successful tester needs strong programming skills, a solid understanding of clean code principles, and adherence to best coding practices. Automated testing tools can be complex, so test code must remain maintainable for other testers and developers.”
Testers submit pull requests and participate in code reviews. Familiarity with at least one programming language and relevant frameworks is crucial to cover backend testing, frontend testing, performance testing, and security testing.
Types of testing in IT
Testing can be divided into functional and non-functional tests. Functional tests verify that software meets specifications and requirements defined via User Stories, Use Cases, or Acceptance Criteria. Non-functional tests evaluate system behavior, including load capacity, response times, compatibility, and security.
Testing methods include:
- Black-box testing: focuses on input/output without internal code knowledge
- White-box testing: analyzes internal logic and code structure; more time-consuming but ensures deeper system coverage
Web, desktop, and mobile app testing
Application testing depends on the platform. Desktop apps must be compatible with Windows, Ubuntu, and macOS, including multiple versions. Mobile apps require testing on Android and iOS, considering CPU architecture and memory management.
Web apps must be tested across browsers, operating systems, and screen resolutions, ensuring responsive design, usability, and security. Proper cross-platform testing is critical for delivering a smooth user experience.
Test automation
Test automation involves creating programs that automatically test software. It usually starts with building a base of routine tests and writing smoke tests to verify basic functionality. Automated testing saves time on repetitive tasks, but maintaining automated tests can be time-consuming.
For small projects or short development cycles, test automation may not always be cost-effective. However, in larger projects, it is a key part of quality assurance (QA) and ensures consistent software quality.
Career and tools for software testers
Does a tester need programming skills?
Yes, a tester should be familiar with at least one programming language and relevant frameworks. This knowledge is essential for automated testing, creating maintainable test scripts, and participating in code reviews. Even for manual testers, understanding programming concepts helps communicate effectively with developers and improves the ability to design efficient test cases.
What types of testing exist?
There are two main categories:
- Functional testing: verifies that software behaves according to requirements (User Stories, Use Cases, Acceptance Criteria), including regression, smoke, and integration tests
- Non-functional testing: focuses on performance, security, compatibility, and scalability
Methods include:
- Black-box testing: focuses on inputs and outputs without knowing internal code
- White-box testing: analyzes internal logic and code, requires technical knowledge, ensures deeper coverage
Can anyone become a tester without a technical background?
Yes, it is possible to start a career as a software tester without prior technical experience. However, understanding basic programming, frameworks, and testing principles is crucial for quality work. Soft skills such as attention to detail, analytical thinking, and communication are also important.
What tools do testers commonly use?
- Automated testing: POSTMAN, Selenium, JUnit
- Test management and bug tracking: JIRA, TestRail, Bugzilla
- Collaboration and communication: Slack, Microsoft Teams
What is test automation and why is it important?
Test automation uses scripts or programs to run tests automatically. It reduces repetitive manual work, ensures consistent test coverage, and accelerates release cycles. Automation is particularly valuable for regression testing, smoke tests, and performance testing in large projects.
How do testers work with development teams?
Testers collaborate closely with developers, project managers, and QA leads. They clarify requirements, report bugs, review code, and participate in Scrum or Kanban meetings. This teamwork ensures that software is delivered with high quality and meets user expectations.
