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.
You absolutely and categorically can teach an old dog new tricks. Jess, my beloved dog, was always learning new things throughout her long life, she loved it.
More importantly, Deborah and Victor, or Mum and Dad as I knew them, categorically disproved this metaphor, mastering the digital realm in their 70s. They hadn’t even seen a home computer until after they’d retired. They excelled at it, using technology to run their home and stay in touch with loved ones. They were still using computers well into their 80’s.
So yeah, we all love a metaphor, but don’t let this pithy little idiom cloud your judgement.
Why Do Some Testers Stagnate?
Why do many software testers cling to outdated methods and naff tools?
How often have you tried to show someone a better, easier, more efficient way to do things? Only for them to tell you, they prefer to stick with what they know works. If my Mum had done that, she would have kept sending airmail letters to her sister in Canada.
There has been so much innovation in testing approaches, methodologies and tools. It’s frustrating to see people sticking with Excel and Word instead of using proper tools or using 100% manual testing when automation would allow them to do so much more.
Have we simply accepted the mediocrity of our current situation? Perhaps we’ve just become accustomed to inadequate time, outdated or no tools, lack of proper training, and stakeholders’ persistent disregard for our profession.
Well, enough is enough! I’m calling all software testers to stop making excuses – If my dog and my folks can adapt and learn, so can you.
Why Now Is The Time to Challenge the Norm
It’s time to rediscover our curiosity, break free from the fear of the unknown, and learn new tricks.
We must think differently. For sanity and survival, for the progress of our profession, and for the next generation of testers.
We must keep challenging the status quo and paving the way for innovations and improvements in our field.
You Can Become the Catalyst for Change
Don’t be that tester! You know the one, the curmudgeonly old caricature that grinds away, plodding inexorably to another live incident. Don’t succumb to frustrations and give in to perceived limitations; be the change you wish to see.
Champion new approaches, seek better tools, and advocate for the respect and resources you and all software testers deserve.
It’s time we all kicked into gear and rejuvenated the realm of software testing. We must cast away the outdated methodologies and embrace the future with an open mind.
Forget what you’ve been told about old dogs. Remember Jess and my parent – It’s never too late to learn, adapt, and grow.
So why wait? Let’s redefine software testing, one tester at a time.
