Turn Testing Roadblocks into Spill-over benefits
When organizations start a software conversion project they tend to focus on their data, including their “bad data”. While the data is a key component of any successful conversion, there are many other considerations that should be understood and planned to have a robust and complete testing program. Some of those are system functionality, interfaces, reports, extracts, and forms. This can feel overwhelming for any organization that is trying to balance the need to remain focused on serving its customers or members while also structuring and executing a complex core platform conversion. This is why it makes sense to invest in an experienced conversion leader to help guide the team, structure the program and drive the execution of a comprehensive testing program.
The spill over benefits of a robust testing program are vast. Given enough time in the schedule and resources to do the work you should expect to see:
More employees that understand the new system and will be subject matter experts for years to come
Stronger front-line employees with depth of knowledge and consistent procedures
Good reputation in your community with current customer base
System releases become simpler with effective and efficient testing at the business level
Accountable business partners focusing on their lines of business
This is an attainable goal for your conversion. I will begin breaking down the roadblocks in future posts to shed some light on this crucial topic to your projects success.
Organizations are working with employees that often just want to come in and do the job they were hired to do many that have been in positions for many years and may not have the aptitude to be a software tester. I have heard this sentiment many times over my career from executive team-members and my response is always; “How about we train them up and see what we have. They may surprise you!”