Better Software Magazine Archive:

May 2006

IN THIS ISSUE

The Truth About Exploratory Testing
By Dion Johnson

Forget what you thought you knew about exploratory testing. Dion Johnson is disturbed by its exploitation by those who wish to escape accountability and forgo up-front planning, but says that exploratory testing and scripted testing can work together to enhance quality practices.

Books Are Tools, Too
By Sidney Snook

One of the most important tools a tester can keep on hand is a book, whether it contains instructions for a new method or is a reference for an old favorite. This Tool Look contains one tester’s take on the book "Fit for Developing Software" by Rick Mugridge and Ward Cunningham.
 

Diagnosing Malignant Management
By Patrick M. Bailey

Software development is a creative process that requires communication and nurturing. It's a big surprise to new director of software development Clarion Walker, therefore, to discover that his company’s issues may be rooted in poor team management.

Time for New Test Ideas
By Michael Bolton

Testers are quick to think about speed when testing, but there are many other time-related guidewords that can help broaden your test coverage as well. Michael Bolton suggests a few guidewords to get you started.

The Need for Speed?
By Tod Golding

Tod Golding is all for increased speed and saving time, but not if they compromise the maintainability of your code. The speediest code won't mean much down the road, if someone unfamiliar with the code isn't able to drop in and make an important change or fix.

All Models are Wrong
By Lee Copeland

From the Copernican solar system to an engineer’s scale replica of a bridge, the world is full of models that answer our questions and help us solve problems. Lee Copeland tells us that a model doesn't have to be correct to be useful.

Developers Who Test
By Neil Harrison

Every software professional knows that testing is hard, and the situation is even bleaker for software developers. The good news is that effective techniques exist that won't break the schedule or overwhelm developers with test cases. Let loose your inner tester with patterns designed with developers in mind.

Debunking Myths of Agile Development
By Robert Holler

Agile methods have made their way to the software mainstream in the last few years. As more organizations turn to agile development, its definition often gets obscured. Learn the facts behind five common agile myths, as Robert Holler attempts to dispel these misconceptions.

What Lies Beneath
By Ryan English

Just when you think your application is free of defects, you find security vulnerabilities lurking beneath the surface. Penetration testing can help you get them before they get you. Ryan English discusses vulnerabilities and offers five steps to organizations looking to start a Web application security initiative.

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