5 Best Practices for Software Quality Assurance (SPA)
Published: 2024-01-05 06:22:20

Throughout my career as a software developer, I have observed that many dev teams often make the same mistake: **they believe Software Quality Assurance (SQA) only occurs toward the end of a project.**

However, this misconception overlooks the fact that **QA is an ongoing process throughout the entire software development lifecycle.** 

For this reason, it is crucial to create an SQA plan that details the procedures, techniques, QA software, and tools to be utilized at various stages of development.

In this guide, I will share some of the best SQA practices and tools that I utilize. 

By implementing these strategies, your team can improve software quality and reduce potential issues down the line. Let's dive in!

![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/q46fe7cwmi7kgls3t3uc.png)

## **1. Test Early and Often ('Shift Left' Testing)**

Incorporate QA testing early in the development cycle. This ['Shift Left' approach](https://insights.sei.cmu.edu/blog/four-types-of-shift-left-testing/), especially in Agile environments, helps **identify and rectify issues sooner.**

We use [this Sprint Planning Template](https://monday.com/go-templates/sprint-planning/?utm_source=devto&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=5_best_practices_for_software_quality_assurance&utm_term=queueVTA_link_1) to integrate testing into each sprint. This facilitates continuous testing and adaptation based on findings, promoting a proactive QA approach.

Additionally, we use this [Bug Reporting Template](https://stories.monday.com/templates/show/246/?utm_source=devto&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=5_best_practices_for_software_quality_assurance&utm_term=queueVTA_link_2) to automate recording mistakes and monitoring fixes.

## **2. Create a Software Development Risk Register**

Identifying potential risks in software development is vital for targeted testing. A comprehensive risk assessment informs QA teams about what issues to look for.

**We use [this Risk Register Template](https://monday.com/templates/program-risk-register/?utm_source=devto&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=5_best_practices_for_software_quality_assurance&utm_term=queueVTA_link_3) to manage and monitor risks**. It helps categorize risks, assign responsibilities, and plan actions, ensuring that the team is prepared for potential challenges.

![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/fk1bshcxsui8kainv4jy.png)

## **3. Create a Software Quality Assurance Plan**

A thorough SQA plan covers objectives, metrics, and testing methods and prevents missed errors.

We use [monday dev for documentation](https://monday.com/workdocs/?utm_source=devto&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=5_best_practices_for_software_quality_assurance&utm_term=queueVTA_link_4) purposes. **It's ideal for creating high-quality bug reports and managing the documentation process effectively.**

This will help you address the common issue of poorly written documentation, which can frustrate developers.

## **4. Use a Multi-Testing Strategy**

Relying on a single testing approach can be limiting. **Combining methods like exploratory testing, scripted testing, and beta testing ensures more comprehensive error detection.**

monday dev can be used to organize and track these varied testing methodologies. Its flexible project boards can accommodate different testing strategies, helping teams catch errors that might be missed by a single method.

## **5. Improve Communication**

Effective communication between QA teams and developers is crucial. Techniques such as [pair testing](https://www.geeksforgeeks.org/pair-testing-in-software-testing/) can enhance understanding and collaboration.

[monday communication tools](https://support.monday.com/hc/en-us/articles/115005310865-How-to-communicate-with-my-team/?utm_source=devto&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=5_best_practices_for_software_quality_assurance&utm_term=queueVTA_link_5) can be employed to improve interactions between teams. Its interface allows for precise and continuous dialogue, reducing misunderstandings and fostering a cooperative work environment.

### **In Conclusion…**

Implementing effective Software Quality Assurance practices is essential for the development of high-quality software. **The five key strategies outlined in this guide can significantly enhance software quality while minimizing potential issues.**

By adopting these best practices, teams can ensure that quality assurance becomes an integrated and continuous part of the development process. Ultimately, this leads to better software products and satisfied end users.

**What are your top SQA tips? Share with me in the comments below!**