In order to receive an objective evaluation of software quality and ensure a successful release of solutions to the market, the companies use the services of independent testing providers. Despite a number of benefits, the procedure of independent quality assessment hides several pitfalls that can affect the project team productivity and complicate the workflow. http://qatestlab.com/resources/

1. Independent Testing.
Remote teams risks
Angelina Friz
QATestLab Program Manager

2. About me
2
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managing currently simultaneously 8 teams
6 years experience in project management
4 years experience in team management
favorite methodology is Agile
fond of rally the troops :)
the largest team is 11 testers

3. 3
Despite providing an objective evaluation of software quality, independent
testing conducted by remote team hides several pitfalls. But they can be
avoided. How?
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4. 4
• Fresh view on product quality
• Available testing means
• Separate budget
• Internal team management
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The Advantages of Independent Testing

5. 5
• Poor communication
• Lack of process transparency
• Cultural barriers
• Language barriers
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The Disadvantages of Independent Testing

6. 6
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Improper Communication
Well-established communication is the key
to effective cooperation, especially in case
of distant collaboration.

7. 7
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• Asynchronous communication across
multiple time zones
• Synchronous communication in real
life via a certain channel
• Interpersonal communication for
long-term projects
Communication Types for Remote Teams

8. Solution
8
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• Prioritize communications according to
their purpose
• Be flexible and keep tracking team
availability
• Share non-work-related content
• 'Celebrate' project successes together
• Watch out misinterpretations in messages

9. Problem: Lack of Process Transparency
9
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Clearly distributed zones of responsibility will
minimize the risks of conflicts of interest within
the project team.
Create a central hub to make the project activities
available for each team member.

10. Solution
10
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• Create a centralized virtual office
• Ensure an easy way of document sharing
• Keep in touch with your team
• Encourage feedback

11. Problem: Absence of Trust within Project Team
11
Being the basis of productive cooperation,
trust should be earned and maintained
even within virtual project team where
you probably will never meet your
teammate in person.
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12. Solution 1
12
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Being initially open for cooperation, the members of project team trust each
other on the nod. But trust should be obligatory justified during the workflow to
establish interpersonal relationships.

13. Solution 2
13
In teams with trust-based relations,
communication happens according
to predictable patterns.
By sharing and rotating power, you
establish stronger relations and
show your trust.
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14. Problem: Language Barriers
14
Correct grammar and proper syntax are
the basis for flawless activities.
But what you say is not always what you
mean.
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15. Problem: Cultural Barriers
15
Cultural specific issues can be connected
with:
• Management hierarchy
• Notion of agreement
• Process / result orientation
• Attitude to deadlines
• Direct-spoken character
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16. Solution
16
• Learn about your vendor's culture
• Identify cultural issues related to
business
• Determine what issues can be
accommodated
• Mind the ability for empathy
• Create 'team profile'
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17. 17
An effective cooperation with remote QA team is possible due to the techniques
and practices that help to avoid and prevent the risks of distant collaboration.
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18. Contacts
18
© QATestLab.All rights reserved.
E-mail: contact@qa-testlab.com
Phone: +380 (44) 501-55-48
Address: 154a, Borschagivska str.,
03056, Kiev, Ukraine
Twitter: QATestLab
Web-site: qatestlab.com
SkypeID: sales.qatestlab

19. Thanks
19