In today's article we would like to talk about testing as a service and its implementation in the processes of a product company.
The IT landscape is constantly changing (especially rapidly in recent years) and processes are constantly evolving. The testing of software in such conditions has to be adapted accordingly. We have been working with one of Russia's leading mobile operators for many years. Our specialists lead the product teams in the company's testing solutions. This cooperation is an example of an effective organisation of testing processes that has proved its worth.
We started working with this client in 2015. We integrated a team of testers into their existing software development process. We recruited testers and trained them on the company's solution within two weeks. It was a kind of adaptability check. The ultimate goal was to replace the current testing service provider and reduce various risks. The specialists began testing dedicated functionality, building a knowledge base and maintaining test documentation to ensure production quality.
The solution that was tested was the BSS (Business Support System) of the telecommunications company. The BSS is a system that consists of high-load back-end services and front-end systems that contain the complex business logic of the telecom operator. Some systems are developed in-house, while others are developed by contractors or provided as off-the-shelf solutions. Working with such systems requires constant updating and development as telecom networks evolve. There is a huge amount of data generated in BSS that needs to be received, processed, analysed and distributed. Specific emulators for the telecom industry have been used to work with BSS, such as USSD request emulators.
We were able to quickly adapt to the client's needs and put in place a working system that is still effective today, with continuous improvement. The client plans changes taking into account business requirements, technology or legislation, and testing provides timely analysis and support for all these tasks, including proactive measures, allowing the client to focus on business tasks while leaving the technical nuances to the experts.
The project is still ongoing. The scope of responsibilities has expanded. Engineers have become team leaders, the operator's systems are changing, new systems are being introduced and some are being phased out. Over the course of our relationship, we have evolved from being a regular outsourcing provider to a testing expertise centre for the client. The project manager is one of the key experts in adapting the customer's development processes. A third of the engineers on the project have been with the company for over 5 years. As a result, quality remains stable. Requests to expand the team are easily accommodated.
