Your boss doesn't understand software testing. How can you make them see its value?

1 Explain the risks of not testing

One of the most effective ways to convince your boss of the importance of software testing is to show them the potential consequences of not testing. You can use examples from your own projects or from other companies that have faced software failures, bugs, or security breaches due to poor testing. Explain how these issues can affect the reputation, customer satisfaction, revenue, and legal liability of the business. Emphasize that testing can help prevent or minimize these risks by detecting and fixing errors before they cause damage.

2 Demonstrate the value of testing

Another way to persuade your boss of the value of software testing is to demonstrate how testing can improve the quality, functionality, and usability of the software. You can use metrics, reports, or feedback to show how testing can help you meet the requirements, expectations, and needs of the stakeholders, users, and customers. Highlight how testing can help you deliver a better product that meets the standards, specifications, and goals of the project. Show how testing can also help you optimize the performance, efficiency, and reliability of the software.

4 Involve your boss in testing

A fourth way to make your boss appreciate software testing is to involve them in your testing process and results. You can invite them to participate in testing activities, such as reviews, walkthroughs, inspections, or demos, to give them a firsthand experience of how testing works and what it can achieve. You can also share your testing results, such as defects, issues, or improvements, with them regularly and transparently, to keep them informed and engaged. You can also solicit their feedback, suggestions, or questions, to show that you value their input and collaboration.

5 Educate your boss about testing

A fifth way to make your boss learn about software testing is to educate them about the basics, principles, and best practices of testing. You can use resources, such as books, articles, blogs, podcasts, or courses, to provide them with relevant and reliable information and knowledge about testing. You can also use examples, analogies, or stories, to illustrate and explain testing concepts and terms in a simple and relatable way. You can also use testimonials, case studies, or references, to show them how testing can benefit other businesses and projects.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?