Jag shares with us the highs and lows of QA testing an API platform, the action game that’s got his attention, and how he’s handling the WFH lifestyle…
Tell us a bit about your role.
My role is QA Lead, so assuring the quality of our API platform. I test our new portal, making sure it is working correctly. This entails working closely with the developers, creating a plan in how to test all the aspects of the software in a manageable and timely fashion. Once a plan has been created, I carry out these tests to make sure nothing breaks; if it does, it’s my job to report it and make sure it has been fixed.
What are the best bits? What do you find challenging?
The best part of working in QA is that you must learn how all aspects of the platform work, so this allows you to continuously widen your knowledge. Also, you can directly affect the software for the better, rewarded by knowing that something previously broken has been rectified through your help.
The main challenge is to maintain your focus, as the work can sometimes be repetitive. There can be a lot of information to take in, and this can be daunting if you are not prepared for it on any given day. However, a big part of the work is to be structured and organised, so if you can manage that then the rest usually falls into place!
Do you think working from home has changed how you work now?
It hasn’t affected the way I work too much. In some ways, it’s more conducive to finding issues. Spending long periods of time remaining focused has been made easier, as I’m fortunate enough to be able to find a quiet place in the house. If worse comes to worst, I take my work to the garage.
One change is waking up in the mornings and thinking, “am I going to be late for work?” and then quickly recognising “oh, I’m at work”. It’s a good feeling!
I’ve found myself being more regimented and stricter as far as time is concerned. I go for lunch at a set time now and often go for a bike ride, which I did not do before. I keep an eye on my working day finishing so I don’t just keep going. My fear is if I get too relaxed with time then work could blur into one continuous motion.
What games are keeping you entertained at the moment?
I’m playing Death Stranding when I get the chance. I’m enjoying the ‘strangeness’ of it. There’s also a lot of lore, backstory and anagrams that the game narrative throws at you. I must admit, the older I get, the less I pay attention to tutorials or groundwork the game lays out to help you as a player. I just want to play, and the gameplay has been pretty good so far. There was one moment involving some crazy terrain, a crying baby and a large oily lion chasing me. I managed to escape, and I had no idea what was going on, but it was quite exhilarating!
List the top 3 places you would like to visit when the current restrictions are eased.
- McDonalds
- Burger King
- Start going back to the gym again because of 1) and 2)
Finally, what Genba value feels most relevant to you right now and why?
Being Agile is the one. Balancing the workload can be challenging at times, and you must be quick to process and action everything. So, I try to keep this value in mind, and that keeps me on top of things.
