A lot of what I do is give names to testing behaviors and patterns that have been around a long time but that people are not systematically studying or using. I'm not seeking to create a standard … [Read more...] about Three New Testing Heuristics
Satisfice Blog
The Essence of Heuristics
Excellent testing requires skill, but heuristics give structure to that skill. Heuristics help us access our skills under pressure. A heuristic is a fallible method of solving a problem or making a … [Read more...] about The Essence of Heuristics
Stuart Reid’s Bizarre Plea
Stuart Reid is planning to do a talk on how we should use "evidence" in our debates about what works and doesn't work in testing. A funny thing about that is Stuart once spent 30 minutes trying to … [Read more...] about Stuart Reid’s Bizarre Plea
CNN Believes Whatever Computers Say
(CNN) -- Early evidence points to driver error as the reason a 2005 Prius sped into a stone wall on March 9, according to federal investigators. "Information retrieved from the vehicle's onboard … [Read more...] about CNN Believes Whatever Computers Say
Toyota Story Analysis
I'm not against Toyota, really. I'm against manufacturers who try to weasel out of their responsibilities after they put people at risk with poor design. I do not know if Toyota is guilty of that, … [Read more...] about Toyota Story Analysis
Advice to Lawyers Suing Toyota
A press release by Toyota recently stated: Toyota’s electronic systems have multiple fail-safe mechanisms to shut off or reduce engine power in the event of a system failure. Extensive testing of … [Read more...] about Advice to Lawyers Suing Toyota
Tester Pilot
Richard drove up to the hangar just as I was checking the oil on the Husky, his prized baby float plane. Nuts. He was right on time. I was late. I'm supposed to have the plane ready to go when he … [Read more...] about Tester Pilot
Logging: Exploratory Tester’s Friend
I'm on a new project lately, working with a team at QualiTest. We're testing a class III medical device. This is an exciting project, because for the first time I am aware of, formalized exploratory … [Read more...] about Logging: Exploratory Tester’s Friend
Free Testing Lessons Over Skype
One of the things I like to do is give testing lessons over Skype. I never charge for them, but there are conditions: I don't schedule them in advance. I do it as time is available. I coach … [Read more...] about Free Testing Lessons Over Skype
My Life With Colleagues
My work is greatly influenced by fellow students of the craft. My friends are critical to my education.They help me focus my attention and they stir up my ideas. Here are some substantive examples … [Read more...] about My Life With Colleagues