Taking Testing Seriously

Part IVContext and Culture

The testing world is always going to be buffeted by forces and expectations beyond its control. Testing culture may even die out in certain parts of the industry, a victim of its frequent tormentors: desperate opportunism and wishful thinking. But like an elemental spirit, it always springs back to life, called into existence by fear of failure or—let's hope!—the self-respect and determination of competent and caring people.

Why does testing matter? What forces act upon it? How do testers come to be? How do you fit in? We intend these chapters to give you a wider view of the world in which testers deliver their services.

This is important because Rapid Software Testing is a way of relating to the world in which testing matters. You keep hearing certain words from us, such as responsibility and agency. We describe the people who receive and benefit from our work as our clients. These are fundamental ideas for us. We mean to convey that testing is no mere technical transaction. It's an ethical stance, a social imperative, and not least, an identity.