2.6.1 test architect

Chapter 1 Microsoft software testing engineer, Microsoft adopted a unique software testing method different from other companies in the industry. The company has more test engineers than development engineers. In addition, we emphasize the technical capabilities of software engineering to all test engineers. This section introduces the test architect.

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2.6 development path of testing job

Some companies think that testing is a low-level job, and development is a possible direction for a testing engineer in the future. However, at Microsoft, the test position is equal to the development position and has the same number of career development opportunities.

2.6.1 test architect

Microsoft set up the title of test architect in 1999. This is specifically designed for senior independent contributors that have an impact on the product. The title of the test architect reflects the wide influence of an SDET on the products it works. The titles of senior SDET, Chief SDET, and partner SDET are mainly for those who have an impact on the functions of a product. However, it is important to remember that testing an architect is a role rather than a position. Although a senior Test Engineer may be promoted to a test architect, not all of them will become test architects. Generally, some departments set up the role of a test architect for commercial or strategic needs. However, sometimes you can see that a senior Test Engineer plays the role of a test architect, but does not have the title of a test architect. Note that the role of the test architect is discussed here, rather than the title of the test architect.

Microsoft does not have a universal or representative test architect role. Microsoft's test architects are dedicated to various goals and undertake various tasks. Some people spend time developing the basic structure, testing framework, or evaluating product features and creating complex tests. Some people are responsible for managing a special technology in their department. Some people are also responsible for consulting on How to Improve the test efficiency. The common responsibilities and responsibilities of all test architects are to provide technical guidance and develop strategic directions for this department. The level of test architects usually shows their scope of responsibility-whether they are devoted to a set of features, a product line, or cross-department. Of course, in addition to being expected to take responsibility for existing products, the test architect should be far-sighted beyond the existing product versions. If possible, there are also two or three results that are not directly related to the release of a special product.

Microsoft's test architects should not only effectively influence the testing field, but also influence development and project management. Test architects must be able to control product quality, provide guidance, feedback and suggestions to improve the quality standards of the entire Engineering Department.

What is the test architect? The title of the test architect is not assigned due to level or experience. Setting up a test architect is an investment. This investment combines the market's demand for talented people who are able to help the product make flexible changes. It is worth noting that testing architects are not a career development track. The skill requirements for test architects are the same as those for career development for other positions of similar levels, both emphasizing cross-organizational communication and the ability to drive change. Tip:

As of 2008, Microsoft had only 40 test architects of more than 9000 test engineers around the world.