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Hooked on Open Source

Revealed: How Consultancies Get You Hooked on Bad Tools

Picture the scene: you’re about to engage a consultancy for testing services, and their proposal leans heavily on open‑source tools, but there’s a nagging doubt… a misalignment between what you’re paying for and what they’re delivering.

You want the guidance and support to prevent costly mistakes; they want more billable days.

Calleo Sell Test Tools

Calleo: We Sell Test Tools

With Calleo, you get expert guidance to find the right options, demos and trial licenses to evaluate them, and practical help to get up and running. You’ll see the pros, cons and long-term costs clearly before making any decisions, and stay supported with renewals and updates long after you’ve started using the tool.

cut test maintenance

4 Ways to Cut Test Maintenance Effort with AI

Automation maintenance is a pain. It’s a frustrating time drain that nobody enjoys. Unfortunately, teams are doing more of it than ever, with modern solutions changing like the wind and each new release jeopardising script integrity. Thankfully, AI-driven automation is here to help.

2025 top testing articles

2025 Roundup: Check Out The Top 5 Testing Times Articles

Thanks to your support, 2025 was another excellent year for Testing Times and our 10,000+ subscribers. We explored a wide range of software testing topics, including test automation, performance testing, Jira fatigue, tester authority, and more. Below is a quick look at the five newsletters with the most reactions this year, and why they resonated so strongly.

Is WFH worth the risk

Remote Testing: Is Working From Home Worth The Risk?

Increasingly, organisations expect remote and hybrid testers to use borrowed tool licences, unstable VPNs, and software never designed to leave the office. That creates significant compliance and security risks that can turn into serious long‑term problems. It’s not the testers per se, but remote execution over on‑prem licences is a software audit waiting to happen. Read on to learn why a compliance nightmare isn’t the only reason your test setup might not be fit for distributed and home‑working team members.

Effortless automation

Solved: 4 Common Test Automation Headaches

Software teams know the story all too well: automation promises speed and reliability, but reality often brings fragile scripts, phantom failures, and endless rework. In the end, the technology intended to accelerate releases ends up bogging things down. Or at least, that’s how things used to be… Today’s AI-powered functional

Test the Untestable

Test the Untestable: Unlock Savings & Accelerate Your Project

Testers have long been asked to test earlier, faster, and more often. In truth, however, when critical APIs, integrations, or microservices aren’t ready, testing gets stuck. We’ve all been there, raring to go, like greyhounds in the slips…  but with nothing to test, and increasingly concerned about the impending last-minute panic.

The Test Tools You Need

Testers: Will We Finally Get The Tools We Need?

During the 2008 credit crunch, companies slashed technical investment. The mantra “do more with less” stuck—and 17 years later, testers are still paying the price as demands, complexity, and expectations have soared. It’s no coincidence that we’re witnessing an increasing number of high-profile software failures and cyber attacks. Yet, there’s still little willingness to invest in the right test tools and training.

Test Automation Fails Smaller Teams

Why Test Automation Fails for Smaller Teams

Many small software teams turn to test automation, expecting substantial time and cost savings. However, they often fail to achieve any of these goals; instead of seeing a return on investment, they end up spending more effort and cost fixing their automation packs. This failure can leave lasting scars, deterring people from embracing automation and realising its many benefits…

breaking up with legacy tools

When to Move on From Legacy Test Tools

I often speak to people who want to abandon legacy test tools and transition to shiny new solutions. They cite several reasons for the switch, many of which are valid, while others need greater consideration to avoid a negative or costly outcome. On the other hand, I also speak to people who are reluctant to ever change tools, even though they’d see incredible benefits.

Shift Left

Shift Left Testing: 4 Myths and Why They Matter

Shift-left testing has become one of the most talked-about software development ideas. It sounds deceptively simple: test earlier in the process to avoid late surprises. But while the phrase is repeated at countless conferences and stand-ups, it is often misunderstood, misapplied, or reduced to a box-ticking activity (like many other testing initiatives).

Is speed destroying quality

Are Faster Releases Destroying Software Quality?

The relentless obsession with ever-faster software delivery puts increased pressure on projects and teams, forcing them to adopt new processes and behaviours, but at what cost? The need for speed has transformed release frequency into a core metric, but is this relentless pursuit of speed undermining quality?

AI in software testing

AI in Software Testing: Just Another Fad?

AI is everywhere. The software testing industry is flooded with buzzword-heavy solutions, and you’d be hard pressed to find a vendor that hasn’t marked at least one of their tools as AI-powered. But is AI another in a long list of cautionary tales, or does it genuinely herald a new era?

Test Automation Hype

Are Test Automation Claims Just Marketing Hype?

Read the marketing collateral from test automation vendors and you’ll encounter bold promises around costs, coverage, and defect reduction. However, for many who have been through multiple automation initiatives, the reality frequently fails to live up to the pitch.

Adding More Testers Makes Quality Worse

When Adding More Testers Makes Quality Worse!

You’re deep into a project, go-live is rapidly approaching, but there is a mountain of testing to get through. Then, a key stakeholder chimes in, “Let’s just pull more people into testing.” It sounds logical: bigger effort, higher quality. But doubling down on resources can easily lead to chaos, confusion, and worse software quality.

Is Open Source Trustworthy

Do You Trust Open-Source Tools for Enterprise Testing?

Open-source testing tools like JMeter and Selenium have obvious appeal—no licensing fees, endless customisation, and a community to lean on. But, if you’re using open-source for mission-critical testing, you need to ask—is it really worth the risk?

Should testers be allowed to block releases?

Should Testers Be Allowed to Block Releases?

Your testers find a critical bug the night before a major release. Should they have the power to stop the launch?

Testers provide essential insights into software quality and risk. Their analysis is critical for decision-makers, so would it make sense to give them the power to veto releases?

Bug seeding

Bebugging: Would You Plant Defects to Test Testers?

Would you intentionally plant defects to test your test team? Bebugging, as it’s known, is a technique where software flaws are purposely introduced to gauge testing effectiveness. Are there times and places where bebugging is a valid way to help improve processes, tighten up testing, or root out a potential weak link?

Unethical Test Tool Marketing

Exposed: Are You Being Conned By Test Tool Marketing?

We have all witnessed an alarming rise in deceptive marketing practices that undermine customer decision-making and market integrity, with tool vendors increasingly comparing their tools to industry leaders using deliberately misleading information.

Flaky Automated Tests

Are Flaky Automated Tests Better Than None at All?

Is flaky automation better than no automation at all? Does it help accelerate projects and reduce timelines, or does it end up causing more problems than it solves? And are the questions moot when, with modern AI-powered tools, there’s no excuse for flaky tests?

Software Testing Concepts

Software QA Mythbusting: 5 Misunderstood Testing Concepts

We’ve all been there—sitting in a meeting, nodding along, confident that everyone shares the same understanding, only to discover later that our ideas were built on shaky ground, based on false assumptions and an incomplete grasp of a complex situation. In the world of software development, nowhere is this more common, or more consequential, than with software testing.

LoadRunner v JMeter

LoadRunner: Cheaper & Easier Than JMeter?

Four years ago, I wrote about how LoadRunner Cloud was debunking the myth that open-source is cheaper. At the time, LoadRunner Cloud’s pay-as-you-go pricing, bundled infrastructure, and rapid setup were already making it a compelling alternative to JMeter and similar tools.

Model Based Testing

How to Bridge the Gap Between Business and Testing

MBT can transform software QA processes through enhanced collaboration between testers and subject matter experts (SMEs). It offers enhanced capabilities for businesses seeking efficient, comprehensive testing solutions in an increasingly complex software landscape.

Time to Ditch Jira

Is it Time to Ditch Jira? (… For Test Management)

Are you sick of Jira test management solutions? You’re not alone. I speak to dozens of businesses monthly across all different sectors. Many have been forced to use Jira for test management. The more positive people I talk to say it is okay at best.

How to Succeed at Software Testing

6 Proven Principles For Software Testing Success

After decades in the software industry, I’ve witnessed firsthand how six fundamental principles consistently drive software testing success regardless of methodology or domain. Whether you work in functional or performance testing, follow Waterfall or Agile, or specialise in manual or automated testing, these guidelines form a checklist for consistent testing success.

Performance Test Tool Innovations

What’s New: 5 Important Performance Test Tool Innovations

OpenText’s performance test tools—formerly the LoadRunner family—are continuously improving. Over the last few years, they’ve been enhanced with new features to help your teams deliver responsive, resilient applications with an excellent user experience.

Test Automation Framework Secret

Test Automation: Do Custom Frameworks Hide a Dirty Secret?

It’s 2025, yet many organisations still develop bespoke test automation harnesses and frameworks, stitching together a modular in-house automation solution.  This is due to various invalid assumptions and short-sighted commercial decisions.

Simple test automation

Simple Test Automation: How to Slash Complexity & Maximise Coverage

Are you using multiple tools to test functionally across web, mobile, desktop, and enterprise applications? Then it’s time to consider a smarter, unified alternative. Relying on several test automation tools introduces various and significant challenges for organisations.

What can testers learn from SpaceX

What Can Testers Learn From SpaceX?

As a test professional, I’ve seen countless projects where defects are treated as disasters rather than learning opportunities. But what if we flipped that mindset? What if software development projects embraced failure as SpaceX does—not as an end, but as the beginning of progress?

video to defect

How to Generate Defect Reports from Videos!

Testers can now convert video recordings into detailed defect reports. This groundbreaking functionality accelerates project timelines with AI-powered speed and accuracy. Not only does this technology provide the holy trinity of speed, quality and cost savings, but it also solves a huge—often unspoken—issue on many projects: the breakdown of dev/test relations at the worst possible time.

Video to Software Tests

A Testing Revolution? How to Turn Videos into Manual and Automated Test Cases

Imagine being able to record a user story and instantly turn it into manual and automated tests—how much time and effort would you save? Whether you’re preparing for SIT, UAT or streamlining regression testing, you can now generate manual and codeless automated test cases directly from video recordings, leveraging cutting-edge AI technology to streamline your testing processes.

Test Automation what's new

What’s New: Exciting Test Automation Tool Updates

As great as OpenText is at software development, it’s not always the best at keeping people informed about changes. So, today, I’m sharing a few recent updates to the OpenText automation tools. These are just a tiny sample of recently implemented changes. They focus on cloud capabilities, AI-powered object detection, codeless testing, and streamlined workflows that make test automation more accessible and efficient than ever.

Software Testing in 2030

Software Testing in 2030: 4 Ways QA Will Change

Over the next five years, software and software testing are set to evolve at a rate we’ve never seen. In fact, it has already started. Over the last few years, everyone remotely involved in tech has witnessed the constant change in the way things are done. This seemingly non-stop innovation has been driven by emerging technologies, shifting development paradigms, and businesses reevaluating their priorities… and is set to accelerate.

Software Testers v Rogue AI

Software Testers: Humanity’s Best Chance Against Rogue AI

In the race to protect us against rogue AI, our best defence might not be scientists or politicians, but the often-overlooked heroes of the tech world: software testers. As AI systems increasingly mediate healthcare, criminal justice, and military decisions, this unlikely profession could hold the key to preventing existential catastrophe.

4 testing breakthroughs

Software Testing AI: 4 Breakthroughs You Can’t Ignore in 2025

It’s 2025 and software testing AI can no longer be ignored. AI innovations in software testing can deliver unprecedented efficiency gains and bridge the gap between manual and automated workflows. This article contains four software testing AI breakthroughs you can’t ignore in 2025.

Remote Software Testing

Remote Testing Teams: 4 Strategies to Avoid Collaboration Disaster

It’s been years since the pandemic. Still, many companies I speak to have struggled to adapt to changing practices and have failed to implement effective working habits. Unfortunately, you can’t just continue as if nothing has changed—this approach just won’t cut it anymore. In this week’s insight, I provide four actionable approaches that I have picked up from the many successful testing projects I talk to. These easy fixes will help you prevent collaboration disasters in your remote testing teams.

Top Software Lists

Exposed Why ‘Top Software’ Lists Can’t Be Trusted!

You see them everywhere. Top 10 this, top 20 that. We have all searched for lists that rank products. Whether cars, phones, software, or anything else. But how trustworthy are the ‘top software’ lists on the internet?

How to Choose A Test Management Tool

How to Choose The Right Test Management Tool

Test management tools ensure efficient, effective, and auditable testing processes. When choosing an enterprise-level test management solution, it’s essential to use a proven and trusted solution.

why choose loadrunner

Performance Testing: 6 Reasons Companies Choose LoadRunner

Despite what some might think, LoadRunner is not a single performance testing tool but a family of world-class load performance testing solutions. The family has recently undergone a name change that you may not be familiar with. Today, I will explain why LoadRunner family products are relied on by the largest companies.

System 38

Carry On Testing: A Couple of Funny QA Mishaps

Ah, software testing—where meticulous planning meets unexpected chaos and where even the most rigorous quality assurance can sometimes go awkwardly awry. As we bid farewell to 2024, it’s time to take a step back and indulge in some light-hearted reflection on the quirky side of our profession.

Tomorrow’s World v. Today’s Reality: My WQR Thoughts

The World Quality Report (WQR) 2024-25 looks at the current state and future trends of Quality Engineering—albeit from a particular perspective. It is based on a survey of 1,775 executives across multiple sectors and regions. While it is a potentially interesting source of information, I’m always left asking the question: Is it useful?

LoadRunner Enterprise 243

LoadRunner Enterprise 24.3 – Release Highlights

Today we look at OpenText LoadRunner Enterprise 24.3, which introduced several enhancements to their enterprise-grade performance testing solution. We’ve been through the release notes so you don’t have to.

OpenText Customer? Read This to Avoid Overpaying for Support Costs

Following its acquisition of Micro Focus, OpenText has implemented a more stringent policy regarding support renewals and term/subscription renewals. This policy could increase your support costs. Today I’ll explain how to minimise costs when renewing your OpenText software support or subscriptions.

AI caution

WQR: This 1 AI Recommendation Could Derail Your QA Strategy

The World Quality Report 2024-25 (WQR) provides a few interesting insights into adopting AI in software testing. And, while many their recommendations are sound for most companies, one specific recommendation regarding AI implementation is a terrible idea for most businesses.

LoadRunner Cloud 244

LoadRunner Cloud 24.4 – 3 Release Highlights

OpenText has released LoadRunner Cloud 24.4, The latest version of their class-leading SaaS performance test tool. We’ve been through the release notes and selected 3 things you need to know about this and other recent LoadRunner releases.

BlazeMeter Are Lying About LoadRunner

BlazeMeter is Lying About LoadRunner

The people at BlazeMeter are comparing their solution against the wrong version of LoadRunner. This is a deliberate attempt to obscure their actual competition: LoadRunner Cloud.

should developers test

Should We Expect Developers to Test?

In my latest Testing Times newsletter, I discussed Microsoft and their poor software quality. This led to a couple of conversations on LinkedIn comments concerning Microsoft’s approach to testing… and whether developers should ‘test their own homework’ as the saying goes. Click the newsletter link to read the comments in full.

Microsoft issues

When Will Microsoft Step Up? A Customer’s Plea for Improvement

Microsoft (MS) has dominated the software landscape for decades, boasting vast resources and some of the brightest engineering minds. Yet, despite this wealth of talent, many users struggle with persistent issues that raise questions about the company’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.

the impact of cognitive biases on software testing

Software Testers: How Your Brain Plays Tricks on You

What if I told you that, despite your best efforts, your brain could be sabotaging your testing approach? And that while you’ve spent your entire software testing career trying to find the biggest, juiciest bugs, your subconscious has had other goals altogether?

How to think like a top tester

How to Think Like a Top Tester: The 3 Essential Skills That Nobody Teaches

To become a top tester, you need three critical skills often overlooked in traditional training. These skills are simple to understand and easy to adopt, but they have made a huge difference in my career and will help take yours to the next level. They also have nothing to do with software testing.

4 Lessons We Can Learn

How NASA Does Software Testing: 4 Lessons We Can Learn

As a software tester, I’ve always wondered how organisations like NASA test their critical systems. After all, their systems are unique and complex, and the stakes are almost incomprehensibly high—a single software bug can result in catastrophic failure and loss of life.

Help needed to hit 10000 subscribers

Please Help Us Hit 10,000 Subscribers

Hello, fellow software testing enthusiasts! I’m excited to share something I’m passionate about and have been working on diligently for the last two years—Testing Times, a LinkedIn newsletter dedicated to exploring the latest trends, insights, and innovations in software testing.

three-students-holding-diplomas

Are Universities Failing To Prepare Computing Students?

Universities play a crucial role in developing the next generation of computing professionals. However, by adopting a short-sighted approach to test tools, academic institutions are missing a crucial aspect from their computing and information systems degree courses.

the next generation of test tools

The Evolution of Test Tools: Passing the Baton

Test tools have long been essential to software quality and testing efficiency, but over the years, they have transformed significantly, becoming more powerful, cost-effective, and reliable than ever before. One test tool suite has been at the forefront of this evolution, tracing its lineage back to the 1990s.

Service Virtualization

Seriously, Why Aren’t You Using Service Virtualization?

Service Virtualization (SV) remains one of the most criminally underused tools in software testing. It’s astonishing to me just how many organisations still ignore its benefits – test earlier and save money. If you’re not using SV, you are missing out—plain and simple.

UFT Digital Lab

UFT Digital Lab 24.2: What’s New?

If you need to test multiple devices, OS versions, or browser types, you need UFT Digital Lab from OpenText (previously known as Mobile Center and UFT Mobile). It has a comprehensive suite of features specifically designed for mobile, tablet and web testing across myriad platforms.

ALM QC 241

What’s New in ALM/QC 24.1: Release Highlights

If you’re involved with waterfall projects, you may well be familiar with the test management tool ALM/Quality Center (ALM/QC), but you might be surprised at its capabilities. The latest release, Version 24.1, is a modern test management powerhouse.

VSM Building Blocks

VSM is Easy with ValueEdge from OpenText

Value Stream Management (VSM) can revolutionise your business, driving customer value and removing unnecessary costs and investments. However, it does require a rethink of internal processes and culture, which can be a daunting prospect. Fortunately, ValueEdge from OpenText is an end-to-end suite of powerful, user-friendly, intuitive tools that make VSM easy!

Unlock Value with Software Testing

Unlock Value with VSM: The Crucial Role of Software Testing

Delivering high-quality solutions is an essential part of Value Stream Management (VSM). After all, substandard solutions don’t deliver value to customers or shareholders. That’s why software testing is a central component in VSM, and it’s now easier than ever with the powerful and user-friendly OpenText ValueEdge testing tools.

How to implement VSM

How to Implement Agile & Test Management Within VSM

ValueEdge Agile and ValueEdge Quality work together to enable smooth software development within VSM landscapes. By integrating the two tools, you increase the efficiency and effectiveness of Agile and DevOps testing processes, driving quality and value.

VSM

VSM: Reduce Project Costs The Right Way

It’s hard for businesses to understand where their investments are going and whether they will translate to business and customer value, especially when it comes to software development…. This is where VSM comes in.

AI the unseen software development partner

AI: The Unseen Partner in Modern Software Engineering

Within software projects, AI (and ML) is increasingly used in areas including code generation, test automation, and project management, although many of these uses are often not in an officially sanctioned capacity. Where ChatGPT is a bit of a Jack-of-all-trades, enterprise AI solutions are far more targeted, and far more robust.

LoadRunner Cloud

SaaS Performance Testing: Easy, Quick, and Stress Free

SaaS performance tools remove most setup headaches, giving you access to pre-configured cloud-based performance infrastructure. No more setting up load injectors or installing controllers. Instead, you just log on and choose where in the world you want to run your tests.

Tricentis lying about OpenText

Tricentis Are Lying. Again

OpenText invests more in R&D than any other test tool provider. New features are added multiple times a year, application and technology support keeps growing, and they regularly release completely new tools.

test management tools are the foundation

Build a Foundation for Testing Success: Choosing a Test Management Tool

Test management tools give unparalleled views of software development progress, provide quality assurance and peace of mind, and can generate positive returns on investment – more than just paying for themselves. This insight discusses some of the contenders and gives recommendations.

risk v reward

Risk v Reward: Are Test Management Tools Worth It?

Are test management tools worth the money? It’s easy and common to assume there are more impactful ways to spend project funds than test tools. But does this downplay the important role a professional test management tool can play in success?

The evolution of test management tools

Test Management Tools: Past, Present, and Future

Understanding where things have come from can often help inform where they are going. The story of test management tools goes back at least three decades and this insight offers a precis of their past, present, and future…

5 automation trends

Software Test Automation: 5 Important Trends for 2024

Software test automation has evolved massively over the last few years; gone are the days of flaky tools, gargantuan setup effort, and scripts that require constant human intervention. The integration of cutting-edge technologies and methodologies has redefined the role of test automation within the software development lifecycle.

Automate Everything With One Tool

Software Testing Simplified: Automate Everything With One Tool

With so many software test automation tools to choose from, companies often cherry-pick a suite of low-cost options to test their full landscape. Unfortunately this is highly problematic, adding unnecessary complexity, increasing costs and undoing any of the purported benefits.

UFT One Automation Heavy Lifting

Test Automation: 6 Reasons UFT One is The Only Tool You Need

In the fast-paced world of software development, functional testing is critical to ensure your solutions perform as expected. Unlike manual testing, which is time-consuming and prone to human error, test automation streamlines the testing process, offering a faster, more accurate, cost-effective solution. There is an array of automation tools available, but OpenText UFT One is the standout choice, offering a complete solution for all your needs.

cut testing costs

Cut Software Testing Costs With These Essential Tactics

Balancing rigorous testing with cost-effectiveness is a challenge. You can test too much, take too much time, and spend too much money on testing. Luckily, there are proven ways to refine your testing practices, increase efficiency, and cut your software testing costs.

performance testing is like herding cats

Herding Cats: Performance Testing Strategies for 2024

Performance testing is more challenging than ever. Technology is more complex, customer expectations are higher, and an increasing number of people and departments need to be involved to make performance testing effective. This article shines a light on strategies to help you execute successful performance test cycles in 2024.

skimping on performance test tools

Why Skimping on Performance Tools Is a False Economy

Performance tool cost is likely to be less than 10% of the performance testing budget, yet many still think that slashing this figure saves money. Common sense tells us that if you do not spend on quality tools, you will spend more on people. In this insight, I look at why investment in professional performance test tools is so important.

The Human Cost of Software Failure

Horizon: The Human Cost of Software  Failure

The Post Office Horizon scandal destroyed lives and livelihoods and is rooted in defective software. This insight looks at the scandal from a testing perspective and serves as a cautionary tale for all involved in deploying large-scale IT systems.

LoadRunner Cloud Migration

Remote Testing with LoadRunner Might Be Breaching Your Contract

Did you know that most LoadRunner Professional licenses are only valid for a specific location? This means that (unless you’ve bought the country or worldwide usage add-on) working from home, other offices or geographic locations is prohibited and doing so could incur financial penalties.

Software Testing Steps For an Easier Life

Simplify Software Testing With These 3 Easy Steps

Software test professionals like us are under constant pressure to get more done in less time. These three software testing steps will make your life easier, help you achieve your goals, and allow you to focus on your own progression.

2023 top testing articles

The Most Popular Testing Articles of 2023

in 2023 we produced 50+ testing insights to help software professionals test better than ever before and consider testing from a different perspective – today we look back at the 3 most popular of these insights.

rudolph the red nosed tester

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Tester

It was December 23rd at the North Pole, and Santa’s software team were enjoying their Christmas go-live party. They’d pushed the new CRM (Christmas Resource Management) system over the line just in time, and they were very pleased with themselves about it. Everyone apart from Rudolph, the tester.

Are test tool vendors digging their own graves

Are Test Tool Vendors Bringing About Their Own Demise?

20 years ago, the test tool was dominated by big players and teeming with innovation. Not anymore. I explore reasons why test tool vendors might be contributing to their declining status, and ways they can recapture their former glory

Using Chatbots for Test Creation

5 ChatGPT Guidelines For Software Testers

Guidelines to help you use chatbots for software testing. The structure you need to leverage AI to enhance, rather than compromise, the quality of your testing and application.

Whats new in digital lab 234

UFT Digital Lab 23.4: 3 Release Highlights

OpenText (previously Micro Focus) has released UFT Digital Lab v23.4. The latest version of their class-leading mobile device lab tool. We’ve selected our top three release highlights.

Public Sector Procurement Challenges

UK Public Sector Procurement: Wise Spending, or Flawed Processes?

Strict public sector procurement processes present a major challenge to uk public bodies. I explore why the public sector continues to make these bad purchasing decisions and how how Calleo can help procurement departments make better informed decisions.

Excel is not a test management tool

Excel: Sabotaging Software Testing Since 1987

In this insight, I dissect Excel’s test management shortcomings – from poor collaboration to the chaos of multiple spreadsheets. I’ll highlight Excel’s inherent risks, the associated effort, and how the absence of centralisation makes streamlined operations impossible.

chaos testing with steadybit

Chaos Testing: How to Integrate Steadybit with LoadRunner Professional

There is often an underlying and unspoken fear with software systems: How resilient is your solution to unexpected outages and system failures? Sure, you’ve tested your solution’s functionality and performance, but have you tested against system outages? This is where chaos testing comes in.

Avoid software license penalties

Avoid License Penalties: Software Compliance in 3 Easy Steps

Software compliance is increasingly important. Major software companies are increasingly auditing customers to check that usage falls within their license contracts, and quite often, it doesn’t. Falling foul of your contract can lead to unexpected and potentially sizeable penalties and disrupt your operations. I want to help you avoid both of these.

grumpy testers

Software Testers: Grumpy Old Dogs?

We’ve all heard it said: “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks.” But that is a complete load of old cobblers, both literally and as a metaphor. It’s spouted by people stuck in their ways, who can’t even be bothered to try and are probably more afraid of failure than anything else.

3 Unexpected Lessons Testers Can Learn from Nature

3 Unexpected Lessons Testers Can Learn from Nature

Nature’s beauty and complexity have always inspired poets and philosophers, and I thought software testers deserved to join that list. Here are three small but important lessons testers can learn from the vast wisdom of the natural world.

the pareto principle

The Pareto Principle: 6 Ways to Test Smarter With The 80-20 Rule

In many ways, software testing is the art of doing more with less. Efficiency is the name of the game. Testing teams are often encouraged to abandon best practices when timings get tight. I will show you 6 ways you can get ahead of the game and test smarter and faster with the 80-20 rule

customer experience

4 Ways to Improve Customer Experience with LoadRunner Cloud

The performance of your website or application is often the deciding factor between a satisfied customer and an angry ex-customer. If you don’t test performance adequately, you leave your solution’s success to little more than chance.

a proactive approach to software testing

Why a Proactive Mindset is Vital For Software Testing

By being intentional in your software testing approach, you’re not just reacting to bugs; you’re getting ahead of the game, reducing project durations, reducing costs and enabling robust, reliable, and user-friendly products.

dont waste time on open source

Are You Wasting Money on Cheap Test Tools?

Whenever there’s a debate about open source vs. professional tools, many jump to the defence of ‘free’ open-source tools. But how free is ‘free’ really, or to put it another way, how much money are you prepared to waste on ‘free’ tools?

holiday

Do Good Intentions Fade Sooner Than Your Suntan?

what happens when the suitcases are back in the loft, and the tan begins to fade? Do our grand plans and good intentions survive the transition from those idyllic settings to our bustling, ‘real-world’ lives?

Mental Health of Software Testers

Software Testing & Mental Health

Software testing is the unsung hero of the tech industry. Without it, we would experience flawed software at every turn, applications constantly crashing, and security issues becoming commonplace. However, the importance of the software tester’s role often comes with immense pressure, tight deadlines, and high-stake projects. I’ve seen firsthand how these factors often impact testers’ mental health.

Exploratory Testing

Exploratory Testing: How and Why You Should Use It

Exploratory testing finds defects that regular testing misses. It helps you discover edge cases that more structured testing methods might not encounter. But despite its effectiveness and efficiency, exploratory testing doesn’t get the recognition it deserves.

Cross-browser

Cross-Browser Testing: Best Practices

Cross-browser testing is a vital strategy in the modern world, with its many devices and operating systems, and where browsers interpret HTML, CSS, and JavaScript differently. It allows developers to identify and fix inconsistencies across a multitude of platforms, leading to a more professional and user-friendly end product.

Is Testing Dying

Is Software Testing a Dying Profession?

In the dynamic world of information technology, change is the only constant. Every technological innovation causes ripples in the existing status quo. These ripples often lead to profound transformations in how people and projects work and can even wipe out entire professions.

SaaS has matured

SaaS: From Troublesome Teenager to Mature Young Adult

In the early days of SaaS, there were questions about security, reliability, scalability and value. This blog post explores SaaS’s evolution, focusing on the significant innovations that have brought us to enterprise-grade maturity.

ValueEdge Functional Test

SaaS-Based Test Automation: ValueEdge Functional Test

You may have heard of ValueEdge Functional Test but don’t know what it is and what to expect. Well, I’m here to help. I’ve had a play with the product, and in this ValueEdge Functional Test evaluation, I explore its modules and features.

ChatGPT

How Will ChatGPT Impact Software Testers?

The world is abuzz with conversations about artificial intelligence (AI), and it’s fair to say that opinion is split. We explore AI’s potential implications for qa, and examine how AI and Chatbots like ChatGPT will impact software testers.

rap battle

Performance Test Tools: The Rap Battle

Whatever you think of AI chatbots, there’s no denying they’re making an impression. Find out how ChatGPT compares a handful of major performance test tools – in the form of a Rap Battle!

ValueEdge Quality

Introducing ValueEdge Quality for Test Management

ValueEdge Quality is OpenText’s new quality management solution. If you’re running Agile, DevOps, or implementing Value Stream Management, you need to look at ValueEdge Quality. It will make your life much easier

Service Virtualization 2023

Accelerate Software Testing with Service Virtualization 2023

OpenText Service Virtualization (SV) has long been a game-changer for software development and testing teams worldwide. With its ability to create realistic virtual services and simulate real-world environments, SV has significantly improved the efficiency of software development and testing.

Cloud Based Test Tools

Is it Time You Moved to SaaS Test Tools?

The pandemic has accelerated the move to SaaS for many organisations. With the rise of remote work, cloud technology has become a necessity rather than an option.

Test Tool Costs Revealed

Revealed: The True Cost of Test Tools

In this article, we reveal the true cost of testing tools over a 3-5-year period. We examine the long-term costs associated with different options and provide guidance on how you can select the most cost-effective solution for your company.

Should You Use AI/ML in Software Testing?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are the talk of the town. The rise of ChatGPT has catapulted these technologies firmly into the mainstream, and you’re increasingly likely to hear them mentioned in everyday conversations at the pub or the gym.

Calleo Website Launch

It’s Here! Your New and Massively Improved Calleo Website

We are excited to announce the new Calleo Software website – packed full of information for the professional tester.

A fantastic resource to learn about:
– The latest test tools
– Testing Industry trends
– Breaking testing news
Suffice to say, if you’re even remotely interested in software testing, you’ll find something there!

Software Testers: Why is AI & ML a Big Deal for You?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are increasingly used in software testing. These technologies are no longer at the fringes and are a vital part of testing in many organisations. Read on to find out why they are a big deal for software testers.  As a professional software tester,

What ROI Can You Expect from UFT One?

There is a great infographic (below) highlighting recent UFT One case studies. In this article I am going to delve a little bit deeper into the five case studies behind the infographic and look at the benefits you can expect to see when you implement UFT One. UFT One from Micro Focus

OpenText Acquires Micro Focus: What Does This Mean for the Test Tools?

OpenText, a leading provider of enterprise information management solutions recently acquired Micro Focus. This has generated much interest in the software development community, particularly regarding the future of Micro Focus’ extensive range of test tools and solutions. As you may know, Micro Focus are the present custodian of the class-leading

The Hitchhikers Guide to Micro Focus Test Tools

In days gone by, every software tester knew about the Micro Focus test tools. Maybe they knew them as the Mercury Tools, the HP tools, or maybe by their product names – LoadRunner, WinRunner, QTP, TestDirector, Quality Center etc.
These days, it’s not so cut and dry.
A quick overview of the tools available.

Performance Test Tool Selection – Success A Story

Choosing the right performance testing tool can be a challenging task for any organisation. With so many options available in the market, it can be difficult to determine which tool will best meet the specific needs of your organisation and will grow with you over time. As a leading provider

What’s New in ALM/QC 17.0: 3 Release Highlights

Micro Focus has released ALM/Quality Center 17.0. This is the latest version of their class-leading software quality management/test management tool. To help you get acquainted with this new version, we’ve selected our top 3 release highlights: If you’re not familiar with ALM/QC, it is the direct descendant of HP Quality

Why Every Software Tester Needs to Know About Deming

If you’re a true test professional, then you know that it’s not enough to just run tests and deliver reports. Let’s be honest, anyone can run a test and record a result. Plus, test execution is increasingly automated, and some traditionally human tasks are gradually being replaced by AI. No,

The Top Testing Articles of 2022

We all thought 2021 was a crazy year, but then 2022 hit. The pandemic lingered on, war kicked off, energy prices surged, and interest rates started to climb. Suffice to say, things aren’t ideal at the moment.   Throughout all this chaos, software testers have striven to increase quality, accelerate

Does the World Quality Report Speak to You?

Micro Focus, Capgemini and Sogeti released the 14th edition of the World Quality Report recently. In addition to the main report, the team also released a number of region-specific reports, including this UK-focused report. I am an enterprise software professional with over 3 decades of experience and regular, direct contact with many UK businesses

How Secure Are Open Source Test Tools?

There’s a polarisation of opinion amongst test tool users – it boils down to where you stand on the following question: Open source v paid tools. In this debate, there’s one area that I don’t think gets enough attention, application security. Even when it is discussed, I often hear the open-source

What’s New in UFT One 2022: 4 Release Highlights

Micro Focus has released UFT One 2022. This is the latest version of their class-leading test automation tool. We’ve selected our top 4 release highlights. What is UFT One? If you’re looking for a test automation tool, you need to look no further than UFT One. UFT One supports more applications

What’s new in LoadRunner Cloud 2022.10

LoadRunner Cloud is a performance testing solution for web, mobile, GUI, SAP, Oracle and more. It includes cloud-hosted load generators, flexible licensing models, and global accessibility. All for one inclusive price. As with all Micro Focus products though, LoadRunner Cloud has a strong development backlog. The latest release, LoadRunner Cloud 2022.10, includes

Do You Miss LoadRunner VUDs?

Until last year, LoadRunner Virtual User Days (VUDs) were a convenient and cost-effective way to buy Vusers. VUDs allowed companies to easily ramp up Vuser numbers or run project-based Performance Testing. Unfortunately, Micro Focus stopped selling VUDs in July 2021. We want to know, are you missing them? What Were

Open Source vs Paid? 7 Useful Insights to Help You Choose

Open Source or Paid tools? It’s one of the biggest questions facing software projects and is a question that can deeply divide opinions. It’s a choice that often boils down to the perceived cost – free versus paid. But is it as simple as that? Once you scratch beneath the surface, there’s

How to Get Free Service Virtualization (Mocking) Software

Service Virtualization is one of the most powerful tools in a testers armoury. It lets QA get ahead of development and can dramatically shorten delivery times. If you’re running a well-established test function but need to accelerate your time-to-market, Service Virtualization is my #1 recommendation. Service Virtualization is a complete

SilkPerformer: End Of Life

On July 1st, Micro Focus announced the product obsolescence of SilkPeformer, the software performance and load testing tool. SilkPerformer customers who are under support have an upgrade path to the class-leading LoadRunner Professional performance testing tool. While SilkPerformer has a rich history going back a couple of decades, this is

Open Text to Buy Micro Focus: Could This Impact Your Test Tools?

What the OpenText Deal Could Mean For Micro Focus Test Tools

Last month, OpenText entered an agreement to purchase Micro Focus in a $6bn deal. The deal is expected to complete sometime in early 2023, marking another stage in the ownership of the former Mercury Interactive/HP test tools suite. With a combined turnover of over $6.2bn, this will make them one

How To Avoid This Expensive Mistake When Choosing Test Tools

I spend a large percentage of my working week speaking with test managers about tools and budgets. One of the most common questions I ask is, ‘Have you considered the total cost of ownership?’. I estimate 80% answer ‘No’ – They do not consider the total cost of ownership. Even

the real reason consultancies want you to use open source

The Real Reason Consultancies Push Open Source Tools

Fun fact: A consultancy’s primary objective is to generate services revenue. They want you to spend your money on consultancy days, not on labour-saving tools. Therefore, it’s no surprise that they often lead customers down the open-source software route. Consultancies will dress it up in one way or another, but free tools

TruClient: Test Your Software’s Real-World Performance

TruClient: Test Your Software’s Real-World Performance

I’m going to let you into a little secret about web application performance testing. It doesn’t always do what you probably think it does. More specifically, the figures you get back aren’t always the full story.  Sure, performance testing will let you see how quickly your systems are responding. However, it won’t

5 Signs You Need to Change Your Test Tool

5 Signs You Need to Change Your Test Tool

There’s a high chance that poor test tools are preventing your success. Inadequate test tools are a contributing factor to a high proportion of project delays and major software failures. Thankfully it’s an easy problem to solve. Doing so will allow your businesses to accelerate faster than ever before. In

You Can Test 90% Faster with AI-Driven Automation

You Can Test 90% Faster with AI-Driven Automation

Artificial Intelligence makes test automation easier, faster, and much more efficient. By using AI-driven test automation, you could see up to a 90% reduction in test times versus manual testing. This number isn’t just plucked from the air. It’s taken from a case study where Roche Diagnostics reduced test execution times

How to Choose the Perfect Performance Test Tool

Performance Testing: How to Choose Performance Tools

I’ve been involved in performance testing for 3 decades. During that time, it has evolved massively and continues to change. If you’re a newbie, performance testing can be a tough subject to get your head around. Increasingly, I talk to people at companies who’ve never done proper performance testing, but

What is Model Based Testing?

What is Micro Focus Model Based Testing?

Micro Focus has recently released Model Based Testing, a brand new functional test management platform. Model Based Testing enables collaboration between testers and subject matter experts (SMEs). Model Based Testing uses AI to increase the efficiency of your software testing. It also facilitates cross-functional collaboration and makes software testing much

This Test Management Tool is Still #1 After 30 Years

Why This Test Management Tool is Still #1 After 30 Years

ALM revolutionised the test tool landscape when it launched and has maintained its position at the top of the testing tree for decades.  Whether you know it as Application Lifecycle Management, Test Director, Quality Center or simply ALM, this tool is a genre-defining solution. Now at version 16.01, this tool

What is ValueEdge?

What is Micro Focus ValueEdge?

Micro Focus has recently announced ValueEdge. But what, exactly, is it? At first glance, ValueEdge may well look and sound like a brand new product, but it’s not quite as simple as that. In this blog we’re going to cut through the bluff and bluster to answer the important question,

LoadRunner Professional 2022 - 3 Release Highlights

LoadRunner Professional 2022 – The Best 3 New Features

Micro Focus has released LoadRunner Professional 2022. The latest version of their class-leading performance test tool. We’ve been through the release notes and selected 3 things you need to know about LoadRunner Professional 2022. If you’re not familiar with LoadRunner Professional, it waspreviously called simply LoadRunner. It has a rich and

UFT Mobile 2021 R2 Release Highlights

UFT Mobile 2021 R2 – 3 Release Highlights

Micro Focus has released UFT Mobile 2021 R2. The latest version of their class-leading mobile test tool. We’ve selected our 3 release highlights. Before we start, I want to clarify that, despite the name, UFT Mobile 2021 R2, was actually released in April 2022.  If you’re not familiar with Micro Focus

Selenium isn't Free

The Selenium Myth: It’s Not As Free As You Think

Selenium is firmly established as the leading open-source automation tool, but it has known and acknowledged limitations. Namely, maintenance effort and compatibility. No matter how proficient you are with Selenium, you’ll come up against these issues.  You’re probably thinking, “Yeah, but Selenium is free”. Well, that is a myth.  Sure,

What is Chaos Engineering

What is Chaos Engineering? (and Why You Need It)

Bang!! All of a sudden, one of your production servers goes down. What happens next? How does your system respond? Fortunately, the outage was only in your test environment, at least this time. It was introduced randomly, but deliberately, by chaos engineering. To understand the need for chaos testing, it’s

A little test tool training goes a long way

Test Tools: Why A Little Training Goes A LONG Way

Test tools are one of the best ways to accelerate a software project, and they’re more affordable than ever before. SaaS and term licenses provide fast and flexible options to suit project budgets and lifecycles. But these tools won’t work on their own, they require skilled operators. You can’t expect

Selenium users should use UFT for Enterprise Software

Selenium Users: How To Test Enterprise Solutions

Selenium is a great, free, web automation tool. Sure, it has a few drawbacks with reporting and maintenance, but overall, it’s a decent option for a tech-heavy automation team. Where it really struggles though, is testing non-web technologies such as SAP, Oracle, and Citrix. In essence, Selenium is a tool

Calleo Overview: How We Can Help You With Test Tools

Calleo Overview: How We Can Help You With Test Tools

Calleo is the UK’s leading specialist Micro Focus Test Tool Partner. We’re friendly, knowledgeable, and committed to customer success. If you are looking for Test Tools, Calleo is the perfect choice. We will help you understand test tools, including the different configurations that are available, so you can choose the

Software testing small steps big changes

Software Testing: How You Make a Success of 2022

The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago, the next best time is right now. The same applies to testing tools. If you want to improve, then at some point you must take the plunge. Now is the perfect time. Looking back at 2021, did everything go

Why You Need to attend Micro Focus Universe 2022

3 Reasons to Attend Micro Focus Universe 2022

Micro Focus Universe 2022 is almost upon us. If you’re not familiar, it’s their global showcase event with all hands on deck to help and inform anyone interested in Micro Focus solutions. It’s well worth your time, especially if you’re using, or thinking about Micro Focus tools. These include LoadRunner Cloud, Octane, UFT One, Quality Center

Software is Never Free, but SaaS can save you money

Why Software is Never Free

No software is entirely free, no matter how small the license cost. In fact, free software products often end up costing the most in the long run. But there is an easy way to reduce your costs. Companies and procurement always want to get the best price for anything they buy. Software

Test Automation - 3 Steps to achieve a positive ROI

Test Automation: How to Get a Positive ROI in 3 Steps

The World Quality Report 21/22 (WQR) revealed that even more companies are starting to see positive ROI from test automation.  Test automation has always been able to add value. Primarily by reducing test durations, freeing up resources and accelerating release frequency. However, for most companies, this would come at a price.  Nowadays

Calleo Announcement: New Territories Supported

Calleo Announcement: New Territories Supported

For many years, Calleo has helped our UK & Ireland customers get the right Micro Focus products and training. We are delighted to announce that Calleo is now able to provide that same level of care and attention to customers further afield. As of November 2021, we can provide Micro

Are you still testing with Excel?

It’s 2022 and You’re Still Testing with Excel?!?

Are you still using Word and Excel for test management? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. However, you do need to accept that testing with Office is killing your productivity and reducing testing time. Nowadays, software quality is more important and harder to achieve than ever. Modern software solutions can consist

Calleo 2021 Roundup

The Calleo 2021 Annual Roundup

2021 has been another crazy year, and it’s affected software testing in interesting ways.  A couple of major trends have continued; SaaS has become more relevant than ever, and customer experience is increasingly important. Calleo has been on top of these trends.  Throughout the year we’ve looked at how SaaS

Software Quality Engineering

Software Quality Engineering: New Name or Genuine Change?

I’ve been involved in the IT world for 30+ years, first as a developer and then as a software tester. Throughout that time there have been many trends, and another is starting to gain momentum.  More and more often, I hear people use ‘Quality Engineering’ in place of ‘Quality Assurance’.

New Test Tools?

Stop! Looking for New Test Tools? – You Might Already Have Them

Are you looking for new test tools? It’s quite possible you already have the tools you need. I’ve worked with many customers who were surprised to find out what they already had access to. The Micro Focus tools suite is the most popular and widely used test tool suite in

Software Quality Lessons From the Finance Sector

WQR – 3 Software Quality Lessons From the Finance Sector

In previous years I have found the World Quality Report (WQR) lacks relevance for all but the largest companies in the world. This year, however, I found myself agreeing with a lot of it. This year’s WQR points the way for many companies.  According to this year’s WQR, the financial sector

ALM/QC 16 - 3 Release Highlights

ALM/Quality Center 16 – 3 Release Highlights

Micro Focus have released the latest version of the class-leading ALM/Quality Center Test Management Tool.  This release includes several changes. We’ve picked out our top 3 release highlights: You can view more release information in ALM/Quality Center 16 What’s New. About Quality Center 16 You might think you know  Micro Focus ALM/QC,

Micro Focus Customer? 7 Reasons Why One Email Will Make Your Life Easier

Do you have Micro Focus test tools? You could revolutionise your whole ownership experience today. All you need do is send a single email to Calleo.  Just drop us a note and you can benefit from our knowledge, contacts, and affordable license deals.  We are the UK’s leading Micro Focus

Improve Customer Service and Accelerate Innovation

How to Improve Customer Experience & Accelerate Innovation

When it comes to software, customer experience is not a once-and-done thing. It’s a dynamic, fast-moving target.  Technology is constantly evolving, and so are expectations. To achieve an excellent customer experience, you need the ability to change, fast.  You need to ensure your changes work flawlessly. For this, you need

UFT One 2021 3 Release Highlights

UFT One 2021 – 3 Release Highlights

Micro Focus has released UFT One 2021. The latest version of their class-leading test automation tool. We’ve selected our 3 release highlights. If you’re not familiar with Micro Focus UFT One, it waspreviously called UFT Enterprise and is an evolution of the QuickTest Professional (QTP) and WinRunner automation tools.  With UFT you

Software Testing is Key to Customer Experience

Why Software Testing is Key to Customer Experience

Customer experience is everything. Your end-users will always determine the success or failure of your software solution.  When you think about customer experience (CX) in software, it’s easy to think purely in terms of front-end user experience (UX). That is the look and feel, the ease of use.   There

is a recession mindset holding you back?

Why A Recession Mindset Is Holding You Back

Life moves fast these days. Faster than at any time in human history. We’re seeing rapid changes in science, technology, health, lifestyle, social issues and many more.  In fact, there’s progression in almost sat every area. But many people still cling to a recession mindset. They hold tight to the

Jira is Not Ideal For Testers

Jira – Great For Developers, Not Ideal For Testers

Just because you can use Jira for test management, it doesn’t mean you should. Jira is not a test management tool.  It will end up causing you more problems.  If you’re running Agile projects, you need to take testing seriously. You need a genuine test tool. Jira is a Great

Agile projects need Agile test management tools

For Agile Projects, You Need an Agile Test Management Tool

You’re moving to Agile. Your developers are using Jira. Your test tool is struggling to keep up. You need a new test management solution. Sound familiar?  Maybe you’ve been using ALM/Quality Center. Many have. Previously I would have recommended this as my test tool of choice, but you need something

performance engineering

Performance Engineering (In 3 Easy Steps)

These days, systems need to be ultra-responsive. You don’t have the time to wait, and neither do your customers and end-users.  In this high-speed world, software performance is a must, not a nice-to-have. In the past, you could get away with running a quick performance cycle at the end of a

Shelfware: Unused Test Tools? How to Unlock Your Investment

We’ve all bought shelfware, i.e. software that just sits unused and unloved on the shelf. It seemed like a good idea at the time, offering a return on investment and potential benefits. But for whatever reason, you just never got around to using it. Maybe you tried it but got

Accelerate Device Testing with UFT Mobile

Hidden Gems: Accelerate Your Device Testing with UFT Mobile

Mobile testing presents an ever-increasing challenge to the test team. Devices are already more important and more complex than ever before, and these trends are set to continue indefinitely. UFT Mobile is by far the best tool for this challenge, but hardly anybody knows about it. What is UFT Mobile?

LoadRunner VUDs Everything You Need to Know

The End of LoadRunner VUDs: Everything You Need To Know

Micro Focus has announced the end of Virtual User Days (VUDs) for LoadRunner Professional and LoadRunner Enterprise. This blog will cover everything you need to know, including: If you use LoadRunner Virtual User Days (VUD’s) to performance test, then read on… 1. This is Not the End of LoadRunner This is

LoadRunner Cloud v BlazeMeter - Which Should You Choose?

BlazeMeter v LoadRunner Cloud: Which Should You Choose?

BlazeMeter and LoadRunner Cloud appear similar on the surface:  They’re Both SaaS performance test tools, they both run JMeter, Gatling and other common scripts, and they both provide more than enough concurrent users for most needs.  But how do they compare to each other? And more importantly… which one should you

How To Remove Bugs

How to Remove Bugs: Disinfect Your Software With a Cleansing Light

“Sunlight is said to be the best of disinfectants; electric light the most efficient policeman.” That was written by Louis Brandeis in 1913 and still holds true today. When you remove the dark shadows, it’s much harder to hide. Software Projects are Full of Dark Corners Unfortunately, software projects can

What's New in LoadRunner Cloud 2021.04

What’s new in LoadRunner Cloud 2021.04

LoadRunner Cloud is already a fantastic performance testing solution. It already has cloud-hosted load generators, flexible licensing models, and global accessibility. As with all Micro Focus products though, LoadRunner Cloud has a strong development backlog. The latest release, LoadRunner Cloud 2021.04, includes some noteworthy additions… LoadRunner Cloud 2021.04 – Release Highlights Released

LoadRunner Developer Shift Left For Free

Hidden Gems: LoadRunner Developer – Shift Left (For Free)

Performance needs to be built into your software as early as you possibly can. LoadRunner Developer makes this easy.  Performance is critical to the success of your software solution, but it can’t just be bolted on at the end. A stitch in time saves nine, and solution performance is no

JMeter or LoadRunner Cloud

JMeter? Save Money and Time with LoadRunner Cloud (From only 20p/hour)

When you think LoadRunner, you think expensive. It’s a knee-jerk reaction. You’re used to buying bundles of virtual users and paying a lot for them. Conversely, when you think of open-source tools like Jmeter, you think free. But is this true? Open Source Costs More Than You Expect In reality,

SaaS Test Tools

Test Tools – 5 Reasons Why SaaS is a No-Brainer

SaaS Test Tools are becoming more and more popular, and for good reason; SaaS is the most convenient and easy way to purchase test tool licenses. If you haven’t made the change already, now is the right time for SaaS test tools.  This insight looks at 5 clear reasons why SaaS

Open-Source or Micro Focus Test Tools? Why not both?

Think Micro Focus are trying to replace your open-source test tools? Think again! During this year’s Universe event, Micro Focus made it very clear – They are actively embracing open-source and announced wide-ranging integrations, efficiencies, and mutually beneficial enhancements.  Here’s just a taste of what was covered… Why Use Open-Source

Micro Focus - Where Software Goes to Die?

Micro Focus – Where Software Goes to Die?

You’ve probably heard it said, Micro Focus is where software goes to die. Even if you haven’t heard it, it’s pithy enough to convey the sentiment; Micro Focus buy products to run them to end of life, milking their service contracts without investing in them. But is it true? In

Solution Manager is Not a Test Tool

Solution Manager: 4 Reasons it’s NOT a Test Tool

I’ve been an SAP test professional for well over a decade. During this time, I’ve seen a few iterations of Solution Manager (SolMan), and each one has given me cause to shudder. In this insight, I’m going to look at 4 reasons why SolMan is not a test tool. What

AI Will Help You Test, But it’s Not a Silver Bullet

AI Will Help You Test, But it’s Not a Silver Bullet

Like me, you’re probably hearing a lot about AI (Artificial Intelligence) in software test automation. All the software-houses are pushing it, all the consultancies are talking about it. It’s one of the in-vogue phrases, like test automation once was, way back when. It’s easy to get caught up in the

UFT Developer extends Selenium and by offering automated testing from within the IDE, making scripting and maintenance of scripts faster and easier. Saving time and money

Under Spotlight – UFT Developer

Rob Stock – Solutions Consultant with Micro Focus, talks about UFT Developer. UFT Developer extends Selenium and by offering automated testing from within the IDE, making scripting and maintenance of scripts faster and easier. Saving time and money. Rob has 15 years experience working with all the Micro Focus software

Are Test Budgets Falling? WQR Thinks They Are

Are Test Budgets Falling? WQR Thinks They Are

According to our friends at the World Quality Report (WQR), test budgets are falling. At least as a percentage of overall IT spend. But are they really? I’m not convinced. Specifically, the WQR 2021 claims that over the last 5 years test budgets have fallen from 35% to 22%, as a percentage

ALM Octane - test management tools for Agile, DevOps and Waterfall - better than Jira

Under the Spotlight – ALM Octane

Interview with Rob Stock – Solutions Consultant with Micro Focus, talking about ALM Octane, the Micro Focus test management tool for Agile, DevOps and Waterfall. Why customers love it.  A frank conversation.  Rob has 15+ years experience working with all the Micro Focus software testing solutions and has worked with

Why are Tricentis Obsessed with Micro Focus

Why Are Tricentis Obsessed With Micro Focus?

Tricentis are making big waves in the testing pool, it’s what happens when you dump a lot of marketing budget in the shallow end. It makes sense – Tricentis have got a lot of ground to catch up on Micro Focus, and it’s much easier to tell than it is

WQR - We're Asking Too Much of Testers

WQR 2021: You Expect Too Much from Testers

The World Quality Report 2020-21 (WQR) is out and it’s a massive document. If you’ve not read it, I don’t blame you.  There is, however, a lot of interesting content nestled within the WQR’s many pages. One such section focuses on this key idea: There is too much expectation on testers I

SAP Testing - 1700 Reasons to Choose Micro Focus SaaS

SAP Testing? 1700 Reasons You Should Choose Micro Focus SaaS

When it comes to SAP Testing, Micro Focus have a longer history than any toolset.  Due to new commercial agreement though, SAP can’t sell the Micro Focus Tools via SaaS. This begs lots of questions: The simple answer is this, don’t worry!  Micro Focus SaaS – Still THE choice for SAP

Micro Focus Test Tools

Why the Micro Focus Tools are so important

No matter which Test Tools you end up choosing, you’ll inevitably come across the Micro Focus suite. They’re the industry standard and with good reason. Micro Focus makes the test tools that all others are compared against. Think Photoshop, Microsoft Office or Google. Sure, there are alternatives, but these are the most important tools

Solved: 54% of Mobile Testers found THIS their biggest challenge

In the latest Calleo poll, 54% of respondents said that sourcing mobile devices is the biggest challenge when mobile testing. Luckily, we know a great solution… The Mobile Device Challenge At Calleo, we’re very familiar with this challenge. Simply put, your solution must work on many different devices. Be it phones, tablets

visibility

Avoid Testing Fails: Increase Visibility

Question: If your results aren’t visible, are you even testing?  I’ve seen so many occasions where testers do all the work, but the results stay locked up on their machines, not helping the project at all. Sure, major issues are flagged, but there’s no chance to get the overall view

Mobile Testing - 5 reasons you need UFT Mobile

Mobile Testing – 5 reasons you need UFT Mobile

Mobile testing is tricky without the right tools.  Over the last couple of articles we’ve discussed some of the challenges that Mobile Testing brings, including: We’ve discussed tooling in general terms – it’s the only practical way to get through a proper mobile test cycle – but we haven’t looked

the crazy numbers behind mobile testing

Mobile Testing – How The Numbers get Crazy

Mobile testing doesn’t sound too challenging, until you scratch the surface. As we discussed in the last insight, to carry out proper mobile testing you need to use a test tool. Today we’re going to look at how the numbers get crazy when you’re mobile testing… Mobile Testing is Not as

Mobile testing

Why Mobile Testing is Impossible Without Test Automation

Once-upon-a-time I was involved in a huge-scale ERP upgrade for one of the world’s largest Media conglomerates. The upgrade was pitched on allowing mobile access to the solution. Everything was ready to go, contracts were in place, they just needed to be signed. At the 11th hour, news came from

Black Friday + Covid. Act Today, Protect Your Reputation!

We should be used to Black Friday. The imported sales spectacular has taken hold of the UK over the last few years… but we STILL see crashes! We know when it’s coming, we know it will stress our systems, we know that we’ll miss out if we’re not ready… but

LoadRunner Cloud, Professional or Enterprise? Which one is right for you?

LoadRunner, it’s the industry standard performance test tool. The best of breed that all others are compared to. LoadRunner is more than just a single product Micro Focus have consolidated 3 of their performance testing tools under the LoadRunner banner, each with a different focus and price point. They are: 

LoadRunner Professional 2020 SP2 – Top 5 Release Highlights

Micro Focus have announced LoadRunner Professional and VuGen, version 2020 service pack 2 (SP2). This is a major new release and comes with a substantial set of release notes. We’ve looked through these and pulled out our top 5 release highlights: If you’re interested in the full release note, you’ll find

JMeter? LoadRunner Cloud is Better and Costs Less

You want to performance test your solution quickly, efficiently AND you want to keep the cost down.  You’ve had a look at the options and JMeter is coming out the winner. JMeter is open source after all, so it’s the obvious choice. Right? Well is it? What is LoadRunner Cloud?

ALM Octane 15.0.60 – Read our 4 Release Highlights Today

Micro Focus have announced the availability of ALM Octane v15.0.60. As usual, this latest release includes a wide range of new features and enhancements. There’s a lot in there, so we’ve sifted through the detail for you and picked our top 4 highlights: If you’re looking for a more comprehensive

Micro Focus – Pace Of Development explained

Rob Stock – Solutions Consultant with Micro Focus explains the Micro Focus approach to developing their software.  Busting myths that have existed for years.  Roadmap v backlog!  Invest 30 seconds of your time to hear how Micro Focus approach developing all there software testing solutions, including old favourites like LoadRunner,

Under the Spotlight – Can legacy software stay relevant?

Interview with Rob Stock – Solutions Consultant with Micro Focus, discussing whether legacy software can stay relevant.  We discuss LoadRunner, UFT and ALM/Quality Center.  A frank conversation.  Rob has 15 years experience working with all the Micro Focus software testing solutions and has worked with a significant number of their

Microsoft Load Test and Functional Testing tools end of life – what’s next?

The facts: “Web performance and load test functionality in Visual Studio is deprecated. Visual Studio 2019 will be the last version of Visual Studio containing web performance and load test features.” “Coded UI Test for automated UI-driven functional testing is deprecated. Visual Studio 2019 is the last version where Coded

Selenium v UFT – the Big Fight!

Why do Dev Testers love Selenium?  Why does Micro Focus UFT continue to sell 20+ years after it was launched (it has been through a few name changes – WinRunner, QTP, Functional Tester and then UFT) Opensource v paid tools is the big fight!  Which is better? Watch my views

StormRunner Load just got better (aka LoadRunner Cloud)

StormRunner Load just got better – version 3.7 is now available. FYI – LoadRunner Cloud is the new name for StormRunner Load.  StormRunner Load is based on LoadRunner technology and can be considered to be LoadRunner in the cloud.  With new versions every 2-3 months StormRunner Load is maintaining its position as one

Micro Focus Help Center – explained

Finding the latest information on software products is often harder than it should be. Micro Focus have made it early to find the latest information on all their ADM (Application Development Management) tools. The Help Center is a great way to research and understand each tools capabilities.   In my

How to choose the right Performance Testing tool

How do you choose the right Performance Testing tool? Ensuring that it will not only be fit for purpose, but also still be useful in the future. Before you buy a Performance Tool, spend some time thinking about the tool you need.  So that you avoid a costly mistake.  

What can we learn from the World Quality Report

The 2018-19 World Quality Report is supposed to show us the trends in QA and test globally, but I don’t think it accurately portrays reality on the ground. Most companies I know are struggling with different issues to the ones it highlights. Have you read it? Do you agree?  Check

How to save money on test tools without cutting corners

How do you get the testing tools you need without cutting corners. We all know that there is pressure to use free or cheap tools, however, are they really what you need? Will they help you do the job well or will you have to work round there short comings

People are the real cost

We all know that quality testing tools cost.   However, when looking at how to improve the productivity, repeatability, consistency, velocity, breadth and depth of testing it is worth considering a few things. If you would like to empower your people, have a look at this video. If you would

Unleash the Power of Your Healthcare Business with Micro Focus ADM

Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals is one of the most regulated industries, with high complexity. Therefore, it’s critical to manage risk and implement a robust change management system. However, achieving and maintaining regulatory compliance creates high overhead. To remain competitive, using Agile software development has become a trend. Read how Micro Focus Application Development Management

3 options for your legacy testing tools

Whether it’s your mobile phone, laptop, Fitbit or games console, it’s unlikely you are still using the same model you bought even four or five years ago.   Most people replace their tech regularly – out with the old, in with the new. At work, you may have “legacy” testing software that

The myth of legacy testing software

Your friend says they are going to make a quick phone call, and whips out their mobile phone. You stare in astonishment. No screen… no Internet…. No apps. It’s an old-fashioned flip-phone, which has been obsolete for a decade or more. We all know people who continue to use clunky,

Is legacy testing software holding you back?

If you are working with legacy testing software that hasn’t kept pace with the technology you are using, and seems old-fashioned compared to the new tools on the market… You might be thinking of replacing it. Stop! That is not necessarily the best solution for your legacy software…. Or the

Why might Quality Center be the wrong tool for the job

Have you ever started a DIY job and just not had the right tools?   Frustrating, isn’t it! You know that the right tool will get the job don’t faster and to a higher standard. If using Quality Center and you are moving or have moved to Agile, then that

What is your Black Friday?

Website crashes due to a surge in demand online are often associated with retailers and Black Friday or Cyber Monday However, your website could still be vulnerable even if you don’t sell online!  In my video ‘What is your Black Friday?’, you’ll discover when you need to worry about unusually

Retailers, is your website ready for Black Friday?

In 2017 Black Friday generated £1.39bn for UK retailers and this year is set to top that!  But is your website ready for the increase in demand?   Last year a big-name retailer had major website problems on the day because of the increase in demand, losing revenue and damaging

Top 5 Rated Performance Testing Tools

The Top 5 Performance Testing tools is always hotly debated.   IT Central Station and IDG have go together to list their top 5 Performance Testing tools.  Learn about the top 5 based on buyer intend and reviews. Technology innovation is relentless.  See who has broken into this highly contended

How to choose test management software

Imagine you are buying a brand-new laptop. You wander over to the nearest computer shop… Take a look at what’s on display… And choose the cheapest one. That would be a crazy way of picking such an important item, wouldn’t it? You would never just pick a computer that “is

Black Friday is coming. Is your online shop ready?

It’s Black Friday. You are expecting a surge of traffic to your online shop….. And hopefully, a surge of sales and profit as well. But when shoppers arrive at your site, ready to buy, they are forced into a queuing system with a recurring 30-second countdown message, that says: “We’re

How to avoid one star for your mobile app

Black Mirror is a hit TV show that explores the unexpected consequences of new technologies. In a well-known episode called Nosedive, people were able to rate each other on social media. The main character scored 4.2-stars out of 5, where strong social media approval bestowed status and benefits. Through a series of

When was the last time you had that moment of perfect clarity?

If you are running a test team what would you give for that clarity to know at the click of a button the status of all the test activity under your control. As a test manager, the reality is that you probably spend many hours each week checking on the

How to improve performance testing with StormRunner Load

Your new company website is close to launch, when concerns are raised that it is not scaling properly. As the website is business-critical, this is potentially a serious failing which could impact revenue and credibility.  Unfortunately, your existing performance tool is not up to the job (maybe you don’t have

Calleo Software awarded the Partner of the Year 2018 for UK and Ireland

Calleo is the Micro Focus Partner of the Year – 2018 for UK and Ireland!  We were both surprised and delighted to receive the award, on behalf of Calleo, at the recent Micro Focus worldwide partner conference in Berlin in June 2018. We achieved Gold Partner Status in 2017, now

Faster, Higher, Stronger – Has Testing Become an Olympic Challenge?

I didn’t realise until this year, but there are actually only 15 sports at the Winter Olympics, compared to 42 in the summer. That means that, as PyeongChang 2018 took place a few months back, you heard a lot about a tiny handful of sports, such as skiing, ice skating

Highlights of version 14.03 of UFT and LeanFT

Highlights of version 14.03 of UFT and LeanFT. Micro Focus announce version 14.03 of Unified Functional Testing (UFT) and Lean Functional Testing (LeanFT). This release introduces a number of new features and enhancements, all designed to support today’s Ultra-agile testing demands. https://lnkd.in/gXkixs8 If you are interested in UFT or LeanFT,

How to build the business case for test tools

Your company is shortly going to launch its new eCommerce website or application. You have to test it thoroughly and quickly, but either you don’t have tools, or you know that the current tools you have will not do the job. It’s already clear how it’s going to unfold. Everyone

What is the true cost of free testing tools?

One of your technical testers walks into your office. “Look, I know that you’re thinking about how we’ve going to test our mobile app, and I have a suggestion….. “I’ve found an amazing freeware testing tool that is almost perfect for the job.” You smile, because you can see how

Mobile Center

With more than 50% of internet traffic coming from mobile devices, how can you ensure your application deliver the quality, speed and security mobile and tablet users demand? Mobile users judge their experience based on the speed of the app, the quality of service and perception of security – regardless

Free v Paid for software – do we need to buy software anymore?

Over the past year, I’ve caught up with many old contacts, some of whom have moved on to new companies. When I tell them that I’m now heading a HPE – Hewlett Packard Enterprise (now Micro Focus) Gold partner, selling testing software, many are very eager to hear more. But

7 Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Software to Improve Your Testing

It’s only natural that you have high expectations when you buy software to improve your testing. You want to improve your ability to test and to make life easier. You may be expecting to get greater traceability, visibility, test coverage, more automation, to save time – or all of these.

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