People & Teams

Better Software Magazine Articles

Re-creating Me

Change is the watchword of life in the software world--perhaps no field has grown and transformed itself as quickly as our industry. To survive and succeed in this business we must truly be masters of change; those who have been the most successful are the ones who have been able to use change as a tool and catalyst. Maureen O'Hara describes how change can be an agent for growth.
Maureen A. O’Hara
June 26, 2002
Developing Your Skills as a Tester

Jack Cook explores reasons for testers to gain development knowledge and experience. Expanding your knowledge into the arena of software development will not only enhance your testing skills, it will improve your marketability both inside and outside your company. Knowing that you can work intelligently with developers can be very rewarding to your career and your self-esteem, and it will help you enjoy your work experience even more.
Jack Cook
June 26, 2002
Twenty Years Ago

In comparing himself today to his younger self, Steve Smith says, "I've changed. The work that interests me wouldn't interest Young Steve. Although Young Steve would outdo me technically, I could compete in that arena: Young Steve couldn't compete with me in my new mission."
Steven M. Smith's picture Steven M. Smith
June 26, 2002
What Are You Worth?

Jerry Evans reports on Software Testing and QA compensation issues. He also provides a list of some of the best job sites on the Web for testers.
Jerry W. Evans, CSTE's picture Jerry W. Evans, CSTE
June 26, 2002
Time Management and the Art of Software

Tried and true techniques for getting a grip on priorities and schedules can mean the difference between breaking your neck to get a passable software product out the door and emerging from a project with a quality product and a sane staff. Alyn Wambeke relays some software-specific time management suggestions.
Alyn Wambeke
June 26, 2002
Perspectives from a New Software Tester

Pam Hardy's goal in this article is to relay her experience as a new tester, in the hope that some of her perspectives will help other new testers navigate the waters of their new vocation.
Pam Hardy
June 26, 2002
All Valuable Products Are Risky to Build

Risks sound like disasters, but risks are neither bad nor good. They are only smart or stupid. Stupid risks are chances taken without significant gain if you succeed. Smart risks are ones that will pay off handsomely if you can overcome them. Smart risks are taken by folks who have knowingly made the decision to proceed in the face of risk.
Tim Lister's picture Tim Lister
June 26, 2002
Learning from Pathfinder's Bumpy Start

Steve March discusses problems experienced by the Mars Pathfinder. He imparts the following lessons: 1) design defensively in the face of complexity; 2) design defensively for post-shipment problems; and 3) beware of best cases.
Steve March
June 26, 2002
Techniques for Recruiting and Retaining Testers

Are you challenged with having to hire people when your budget is limited, time constraints are tight, and the testing effort is overwhelming? Many of us have faced these situations. In this article, Jack Cook shares some techniques that have proven effective in recruiting and retaining testers.
Jack Cook
June 26, 2002
Book Nook: A Book Review

Steve Whitchurch reviews the latest edition of Peopleware: Productive Projects and Teams, by Tom DeMarco and Tim Lister, describing it as a "must-read for all management wannabes, as well as those who are currently leading project teams and organizations."
Steve Whitchurch
June 26, 2002

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