Wayne's Words
As we push into the second decade of this millennium, things are coming together. Literally.
What I am talking about is convergence. I mean not only the voice, data and geographic convergence of say the 'mobile industry', but also convergence in business processes, and testing processes too.
Convergence includes shortening the links in the supply of software to business, as an Agile approach does relative to the V-Model. It includes reducing the number of links in business which for example might include interaction with a few strategic suppliers, rather than with all and sundry suppliers in a market auction event. Today, business decision-makers are looking at total system transaction costs, rather than point-solution price savings.
Both technical and business convergence require excellent relationships; between components; between people; between people and systems, between organisations. These relationships are key although complex to manage (or in technical cases, test). As this initial complexity is tamed in collaborative efforts, we as testers will see the life of the consumer starting to simplify as the middle of the decade is bridged. Certainly the taming of this complexity will need huge business, technical, and interpersonal and inter-organisational skills. Successful organisations will be successful because they value these.
In this issue we are pleased to feature an insightful article by Thomas S. Tullis, 'Web-based Presentation of Information: The Top Ten Mistakes and Why They are Mistakes'. We look at aspects of mobile device testing, in an article by Johnny Diamond, and go on to consider 'The Questions of Life, the Universe and Testing' by Mark Myburgh. Our regular features involve, fun, technical details and a cynical look at mobile testing.
Wayne Mallinson
You are welcome to email me your comments, suggestions, and queries.