Summary
In this engaging conversation, Vernon and Richard celebrate Liverpool's recent football victory while seamlessly transitioning into a discussion about automation in testing. They explore the definitions of automation, the importance of having a unified codebase for tests, and the challenges of choosing the right programming language for testing tools. The duo emphasizes the significance of collaboration between developers and testers, the need for regular review of tests, and the impact of context on decision-making in automation. The conversation is filled with insights and practical advice for anyone involved in software testing. In this conversation, Vernon and Richard explore the complexities of development and testing, focusing on the importance of language consistency, the role of developers in testing culture, and the challenges of tool standardization. They discuss the perception of automation skills in the industry, the distinction between coding and technical skills, and the need for context in automation. The conversation also touches on the future of AI in development and the balance between technical skills and automation. Finally, they share upcoming events and opportunities for community engagement.
* AI Generated show notes
00:00 Football Triumphs and Rivalries
01:43 Diving into Automation
04:28 Understanding Automation in Testing
05:58 Frameworks and Code Repositories
08:29 The Role of Developers in Automation
11:08 Challenges in Automation Implementation
13:11 Best Practices for Test Code Management
19:13 Building Communication Between Components
21:13 Understanding Context and Testability
23:21 The Dilemma of Skipping Tests
25:29 The Importance of Test Review and Discipline
27:55 Navigating Commercial Pressures in Testing
29:32 The Complexity of Automation in Different Languages
42:16 The Misconception of Technical Skills in Automation
45:45 The Automation Misconception
48:44 Technical Skills vs. Coding Skills
52:32 Understanding the Role of Automation
56:01 The Future of Testing in an AI World
59:46 The Value of Critical Thinking in Testing
01:03:36 Navigating the Job Market as a Tester
01:08:48 Upcoming Events and Community Engagement