Maximizing Quality with Consultative Testing

Test Strategy

What is Consultative Test Strategy?

The Consultative Test Strategy is an approach for software testing that involves Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) and Business Analysts (BAs) working hand-in-hand. When requirements are tough, new tech is being used, you have enough budget and time, and regulations and standards need to be met, this strategy really shines. I’ve seen it work wonders while working at a healthcare company where doctors, lab technicians, and pathologists were part of the testing team, along with a balanced ratio of SMEs and QA personnel for each product group. And it’s not just me who thinks so – this approach is widely used and well-liked by big service providers, like the BA-QA Model. Let’s examine the approach’s potential for success and its applicable domains.Consultative Testing Test Strategy was more popular during the waterfall era and this not widely used as a test strategy in agile.

 

Complex Requirements:

Consultative Testing Test Strategy brings in the big guns – SMEs and Business Analysts. These experts bring a ton of knowledge and experience to the table, helping them catch any potential problems early on in the development process. Their deep understanding of how the software should work makes them pros at spotting potential issues before they become bigger problems. They’re like a secret weapon for the testing team, providing valuable support in reviewing requirements, test scenarios, cases, and results.

 

New Technology or Product :

You know what, introducing new technology or products in software development can be a real headache. But the key to making sure it’s all worth it is to have those SMEs (Subject Matter Experts) in the testing process. These guys have a unique blend of technical know-how and business acumen, and they can make sure the final product actually meets the needs of the stakeholders. This is especially true for companies that use packaged applications like SAP or Salesforce. Those require a ton of configuration and customization, which is where the SMEs come in to save the day! I’ve seen it firsthand – having product SMEs involved in customization testing can make all the difference. They bring their expertise and guidance to the testing process, making the whole thing run smoother.

 

Time and Budget :

For the stategy to work, you have to be prepared to invest in both time and budget. You don’t want to skimp on resources, especially in the early stages when you’re defining requirements and creating a plan. Trust us, having the right SMEs and BAs on board from the get-go will help you identify and address any potential issues with the software system before they become big problems. So, if you’re committed to improving your software’s quality and reliability, make sure to allocate the necessary resources while you are preparing the test strategy document. I’ve seen testing teams struggle to get support from SMEs or Business Analysts, whether it’s part-time or full-time. The biggest issue was always budget constraints, which made it tough to secure their involvement.

 

Regulations and Standards:

You want to ensure your software system is ready to roll out, right? Of course! That’s why it’s smart to have the right Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) and Business Analysts on your team. These experts bring their knowledge and experience to the table, helping you ensure your software complies with all the necessary regulations and guidelines. It’s a game-changer, especially in industries like healthcare where you need to meet regulations like HIPAA and 21 CFR Part 11. Trust us, it’s better to have the right people on board to help you navigate these rules. Don’t take any chances – make sure you’re ready to go with the help of the experts.”

 

Having Subject Matter Experts and Business Analysts on your team helps ensure that your software system complies with all necessary regulations and guidelines before release, reducing potential legal and financial risks. This is especially important in industries like healthcare where strict regulations must be followed. Don’t take chances, have them on board to ensure readiness and to minimize risks.