The Difference Between Software Developers and Testers

Software testing and software development are two different stages in the creation of a program, but both of them are essential. Many large companies employ both testers and developers in the same building, while smaller companies may hire 3rd party testers to check out their products. Some employees may even start out as testers and gradually promoted to developer as their experience level improves.

WHAT A SOFTWARE TESTER DOES

Software testing can be characterized as any activity that involves evaluating a program to determine whether or not it meets the specified requirements. Many software testers have a strong background in programming and technical skills, but this is not always required. Essentially, testing a program is an art, and can be done by people who have a limited understanding of the program.

To become a software tester, you must have two main skills: reliability and thoroughness. Programs are often used to perform critical functions, and for these applications a single bug could literally result in the loss of millions of dollars. A bug can cause space shuttles to go down, create plane crashes, halt the stock market, and much worse. The job of a tester is to find these bugs and notify the developers about them before the product hits the market.

Essentially, a software tester is meant to debug the program. Human nature is filled with imperfections, so it can be almost impossible to understand a complicated program. However, humans have many skills that programs are not capable of, which make them perfect for troubleshooting abnormal problems.

WHAT A SOFTWARE DEVELOPER DOES

Software developers create program-based goods and services for companies or consumers. They coordinate the production of their products by choosing graphics creators, content providers, programmers, and any other specialist that is required to build the program. The developers are also typically responsible for the final presentation and distribution of the product.

Developers may spend a lot of their time on the phone or in email communications with potential clients. A lot of their time is also spent coordinating the program's production with different members of the team. In some ways, a developer is like a chef, where he/she has to decide where to place each ingredient to create a beautiful dish.

A good developer should be flexible, organized, and have good interpersonal skills as well as a strong technical background. The individual will also need experience in scheduling, budgeting, making decisions, and leading a team. Some developers also act as consultants for other programs and provide advice on marketing.

SUMMARY

Regardless of how complex programs get, software testing will remain an art, not a science. Many testers use the same techniques that were employed 20 or even 30 years ago. Testing software can be expensive, but not testing it is even more expensive, especially when there are businesses or human lives on the line. Although you can never be sure if a program is 100% correct, you can at least make sure the specifications are correct via sound software testing practices.


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