In a recent blog post on the Applause platform, the author delved into the crucial partnership between product managers and software testers, emphasizing the symbiotic nature of their collaboration. With over a decade of experience as a professional software tester, the author, who has transitioned into a role in product management, sheds light on the profound benefits of working closely as a tandem.
The essence of the article revolves around the idea that, depending on the individuals involved, collaboration between product managers and software testers can present challenges. Establishing a strong relationship between these key players is not only vital for their own synergy but extends to the entire team. The author emphasizes the importance of cultivating a healthy and happy work environment, asserting that it significantly aids in overcoming the formidable challenges encountered during the product development phase.
The article highlights a key excerpt, wherein the author argues why product managers should maintain a close relationship with software testers. In an agile software development team, diverse disciplines come together, including a product manager, an agile coach, multiple developers, an interaction and visual designer, and a software tester. The software tester, often tasked with defining test cases, executing tests, writing test automation, and contributing to a quality mindset, plays a critical role in the team. Their knowledge about the product and its end users proves invaluable for the product manager in shaping and defining new products or features.
The software tester’s responsibility extends beyond the immediate testing tasks. They contribute to the overall quality mindset within the team, making quality a collective effort. This collaborative approach ensures that the entire team is aligned with the objective of delivering a high-quality product.
The article underscores the need for product managers to support technical work and foster a quality-focused mindset within the team. While the product manager typically defines the team’s tasks, the article argues that attention should be given to architectural rework and maintenance efforts. Software testers, equipped with in-depth knowledge of the product, can provide insights that are instrumental in discovering and defining new products or features.
