A QA software tester plans and conducts various test processes for newly developed software in order to verify that it functions according to the initial specs (or specifications).
The compatibility, functionality and the quality of the product is tested according to pre-established quality standards and guidelines.
The difference between QA analysts (QA engineers) and products/software QA testers is that the quality assurance analysts focus on improving and minimizing defects and preventing mistakes from accruing in the first place, while QA testers perform Quality Control tests in order to find bugs and diagnose errors before and after product release.
This article provides sample interview questions for QA positions and suggests answers for the same. Although you may know these answers and more, be sure that you can define what you know in a clear way. Review definitions and other related information; rehearse with a colleague until you are satisfied with you smooth and succinct delivery.
QA testing interview questions and answers
Software QA interview questions with answers
Question: What is the meaning of traceability matrix?
Answer: A traceability matrix is used to cross check the test scripts per specified requirements of test cases.
Question: What is the difference between verification and validation?
Answer: Verification is based on verifying the functionality of a new system while validation is based on testing scenarios and specific cases of a new system.
Question: Describe the role of software QA in terms of the test plan – scope of work, monitoring reliability and project implementation.
Answer: Clarify in a specific and brief manner how you determine the timing for system testing and what to test. At what point do you finalize the testing?
Question: Describe test strategy – What are the steps you generally take to test any software? What is the first test in software testing process?
Answer: Unit testing is the first test that is usually done by the developers. Explain the methods you use to prepare test data per requirements that you have defined. Additionally, delineate the process of preparing test scripts, loops and trial conditions.
Question: Have you led or managed an ISO registration process?
Answer: Describe the principals of the ISO audit in which you have participated.
Question: Have you conducted audits on a regular basis?
Answer: If yes, describe the goals of the audit, how you’ve monitored the audit findings and how you’ve controlled the corrective actions.
Question: Tell us about ISO 90xx documentation control and corrective actions.
Answer: Give some details and a brief example or two.
Question: Have you written a Quality Manual or product Release notes?
Answer: If yes, briefly describe what you included and why. Although the interviewer may not have time to look at it, bring along a copy of such documents that you can offer for inspection.
Question: What do you know regarding data analysis and statistical process control? Specify any main topics and procedures with which you are familiar.
Question: What are the QA software tools, automation tools and statistical software you use? What are the advantages of each?
Answer: Provide lists of software such as: SAS and SWOT Manager or any software and automated testing emulation system which you have used. You may also clarify the differences between them, and explain how these tools enhance reliability.
Question: Describe a Gaga R&R
Answer: R & R stands for reproducibility and repeatability. It is a system measurement error that determines the percentage of error, the type of error and its affects on the system.
Question: Describe a bug life cycle.
Answer: Bug life cycle consists of several statuses of an error during its life cycle such as: open, deferred, rejected, solved, fixed, reopen, and closed. You can talk about the process flow and how you monitor and determine the status at various points.
Question: What is the difference between a Bug and a Defect?
Answer: Bug is a deviation from the expected result that can be fixed and solved, while a defect is a problem in the application algorithm or the mechanism that leads to consistent failure or an error that requires a massive change.
Job Interviews for Technological Fields