I’ve been involved in software development for longer than 3 decades. Throughout that time, I’ve spoken to many, many testers who are using out-of-date test tools. In fact, it’s incredibly common to hear of testers using out-of-date tools. Generally, the versions are at least 1 year old, and I have found a few examples where the release was more than 5 years old!
When I’ve asked why people don’t keep their test tools up to date, I’m given various reasons including:
- I didn’t realise it was so long since we upgraded
- We only upgrade every 2 years
- It does everything we need
- Our change control process makes it challenging
- We only use that software for legacy applications
- We don’t have time to upgrade
Of course, it’s often a business decision to prioritise other activities. After all, if the tools still work then what’s the problem, right? Well, you could be introducing quite a lot of problems, and missing out on massive benefits. And here’s the thing, often, updating your test tools won’t cost any additional budget.
With this article, I want to not only highlight the reasons to update but also arm you with the information you need to get your business to take your test tools seriously.
Keeping Your Test Tools Up to Date Provides a Range of Benefits
I’m guessing that you have a mobile phone that it’s less than 5 years old. Here’s a question to consider… Is your phone on the original release of software?
I’m prepared to guess that it’s not. Most of us upgrade the operating system and apps when prompted. Yet, I estimate that fewer than 25% of companies upgrade their test tools when a new release, fix, or patch is available.
Not only do out-of-date tools deprive you of enhancements, but they also open you up to unnecessary risk. Luckily, it’s an easy problem to fix.
Keeping your test tools patched and on the latest version is a vital part of maintaining a high-quality and efficient testing process. Unfortunately, many businesses allow their test tools to slip out of date, but it’s relatively straightforward to get professional tools back on track – and it makes excellent business sense to do so.
Here are a few reasons to make sure your test tools are up to date:
- Technology Updates: As technology advances, new versions of software and operating systems are released. Upgrading your test tools can ensure that they are compatible with the latest technology and can continue to function properly.
- New Features: Test tool providers often release new versions of their software with added features and improvements. Enhancements suggested by customers and innovation introduced by the product developers make the tools better over time. Upgrading to the latest version gives you access to these new features and can help you work more efficiently, saving you time and money.
- Security: Upgrading your test tools can also help to ensure that they are secure and protected against potential vulnerabilities. Newer versions of software often include security updates and patches to protect against known security risks.
- Support: Test tool providers will discontinue support for older versions of their software. Upgrading your test tools can ensure that you continue to receive support and assistance if you encounter any issues.
- Industry Standards: To stay competitive, it is important to have up-to-date tools that comply with industry standards and regulations.
A Note of Caution for Open Source Tool Users
It’s worth noting that upgrading certain test tools can be a significant investment, both in terms of time and money, especially open-source tools with limited support. Before upgrading these tools, I recommend that you evaluate your testing requirements – it may make more sense to invest in new test tools that better meet your current needs.
It Might Be Time to Consider SaaS
If you struggle to keep on top of updates and patches, then SaaS could be your perfect solution.
SaaS test tools offer several major advantages that are outside the scope of this article, but also one that is. A huge advantage of SaaS tools is that they’re maintained by the SaaS provider who will ensure that they are secure and always up to date.
Get in touch if you’re interested in learning more about SaaS tools and I can walk you through some options. For most, I find that companies are more receptive to using SaaS tools.
In Summary – Keeping Your Tools Up to Date Should be a Top Priority!
If you test with out-of-date tools you will be slower, less efficient and exposed to security vulnerabilities. Not only that, but you will miss out on some of the powerful new features, like AI, that testers elsewhere are using to get ahead of the game.
Instead, if you keep your test tools up to date, your business can expect to see the following improvements:
- You will do tasks more efficiently and faster
- You will be protected by the latest security patches
- You will drive down costs
- You will add value to your business
Best of all, updating your test tools is usually free and easy!
