As testers we are part of the entire development life cycle but we are also a key last part of it. So we are, in many cases, the first people to get that call or that special email from someone we don’t even know, that happens to be the boss of the boss of your boss, asking for answers to that bug that slipped to production boxes. This is just one of many scenarios that explains why we should watch our backs!
How do I do that you may ask. Just keep all documentation as possible from your testing. When executing test cases, we generally have to enter as much information we can, but sometimes we don’t do that, and if we do, (negative mode: ON) who knows what might happen to that information anyway (negative mode: OFF). That’s why we need to keeps our personal testing documentation backed up in our machine or any other storage. What testing documentation? All possible versions of the requirements, mockups, acceptance criteria, screenshots, videos, executed test cases, tokens, bookings, old application builds, emails, chats, etc. everything is welcomed!
Next time you get that call or special email, you will have the material to cover your back. But remember, covering your back is not the first approach to any discussion. First, look for a solution, to find where the real problem is and how you and your team can quickly fix it. Even if it was the error of one of the team members, it is a team and we all push together for success. If after this first approach that boss, of the boss of your boss still wants you hanging somewhere, show him how much you know your job!
