Difference Between QA and Testing
Note: the article was updated in October 2018
Software testing and QA (Quality Assurance) are not the same notions. They have different goals, specific features and methods to apply. Let’s review the difference.
Quality Assurance is a set of methods and activities designed to ensure that the developed software corresponds to all the specifications, e.g., SRS, FRS, and BRS. It is a planned strategy of the testing process evaluation aimed at the quality product yield. QA works out ways to prevent possible bugs in the process of software development. QA deals more with the management stuff: methods and techniques of development, project analysis, checklists, etc.
QA goes through the whole product life cycle (SDLC) and heads the process of software maintenance.
Software Testing is a way of exploring the system to check how it operates and find the possible defects. Various methods are used to test the product, locate bugs and check if they are fixed. Testing enables customers with the possibility to see if the developed product meets their expectations on its design, compatibility, functioning, etc.
Despite the fact that software testing works out ways to break the software (aiming to check the system), it is a complex and crucial process. Testing is product-oriented, time-limited and reports to QC process.
Difference between QA and Testing
Having analyzed these two notions, we can compare them according to their aim, focus, definition, activity type, and orientation. QA controls the Testing process and verifies that software is able to work under the given set of conditions. Testing concentrates on case studying, their implementation and evaluation.
QA and Testing work in the same direction and focus on product quality. Professional attitude towards the common goal together with strong communication will ensure the realization of the stated goal.
If you want to know the difference between QA, QC and Software testing, then follow the link.
Learn more from QATestLab
Related Posts:
About Article Author
view more articles
Hello Natalia, it seems that you have in-depth knowledge of QA and testing. I was wondering about what your thoughts are on VPN usage in QA? I am considering linking my Azure account with NordVPN Teams and want some input on how necessary this is. Thanks!
Thanks Natalia. A good summary. My only quibble is with the definition of QA in the table, which talks about ensuring the software corresponds to the spec. I think QA also needs to cover ensuring the quality of the specs, e.g. that they accurately reflect business requirements, are internally consistent etc.
Stuart, you are totally right. The definition of QA is rather broad to place everything in a table =) I’m glad you liked the article and appreciate your feedback.
Thanks for this wonderful yet very informative article… Agree to that you have said in this article this is worth to share !
Thank you for your comment.
We are glad you like the article.
You have mentioned in your post that testing is concerned with breaking software. Well, I disagree with that point. Testers don’t break software. Its already broken. We uncover the break points for other stakeholders to fix.