This is Chris from cryan.com, and I'm excited to announce our new podcast episode series focusing on Quality Assurance (QA) Testing in software development.
Join me as I dive deep into the world of ensuring software quality, exploring both traditional and innovative QA methodologies.
Check out the PodCast!Each podcast episode is based on a blog post. Below are the various podcast episodes along with links to the corresponding blog posts they reference.
Episode | Title | Description |
---|---|---|
18 | Day 18: Scooby Doo's Mystery Machine | Chris Ryan, the host of the QA in a Box podcast, draws parallels between the problem-solving skills of the Scooby-Doo gang and the qualities of an effective quality assurance (QA) professional. He highlights the importance of curiosity, persistence, and teamwork in uncovering the root causes of software issues, just as the Mystery Machine crew unravels the mysteries they encounter. Ryan encourages QA professionals to channel their inner Scooby-Doo, embracing a mindset of relentless questioning and collaboration to ensure the delivery of high-quality, reliable software. |
17 | Day 17: All Quality is Contextual | If you grew up in Massachusetts in the 70s and 80s, you likely heard of Tip O'Neill, the 47th Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives (1977–1987). Known for the phrase “All politics is local,” he highlighted the importance of addressing community concerns. In this episode of QA in a Box, we explore the QA equivalent: “All quality is contextual.” |
16 | Day 16: Celebrating 41 Years of the Macintosh Computer | Join us as we dive deep into the orchard of innovation, resilience, and sheer determination that has defined Apple's journey over the past four decades. From the humble beginnings of two visionary college dropouts, Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak, to the revolutionary launch of the Apple II and the groundbreaking Macintosh in 1984 |
15 | Day 15: Celebrating 9 Years of Blogging! | Welcome to QA in a Box, the official podcast of Chris Ryan's renowned Cryan.com Blog. This month marks nine incredible years since we launched our blog on January 3rd, 2016, and we're excited to celebrate this milestone with you! |
14 | QA in a Box Podcast: Steve Jobs' Optimism at MacWorld 2002 | In this week's episode of QA in a Box, host Chris Ryan dives into a remarkable moment in tech history: Steve Jobs' inspiring commentary on the state of the economy at MacWorld 2002. Despite challenging times in the tech industry, Jobs' unwavering optimism and vision for the future of personal computing continue to resonate. |
13 | Day 13: iPhone 17 Years Later | From the simplicity of testing one device in 2007 to today's complex landscape of countless models, OS versions, and configurations, we reflect on the evolution of mobile testing. What challenges have we overcome, and what lessons have shaped the way QA approaches mobile development today? |
12 | QA in a Box: CES 2025 & The Power of Dry Runs | In this episode, I'll share a story from my early days as an Implementation Specialist and reveal how dry runs turned nerve-wracking software demos into unforgettable successes. We'll connect those lessons to CES, where top vendors prepare relentlessly to shine on the global stage-and why we in QA should do the same. |
11 | Lessons Learned in QA in 2024 | Welcome to Episode 11 of QA in a Box! In this episode, host Chris Ryan reflects on key lessons learned in Quality Assurance throughout 2024. From refining automation strategies to leveraging the power of Python libraries in Pytest, this year has brought valuable insights. Learn why "less is more" in automation, how to enhance your testing toolbox, and the importance of retrospectives for continuous improvement. |
10 | Test Case Details vs Test Case Summaries | In this episode of QA in a Box, we explore the key differences between test case details and test case summaries. Drawing insights from our recent blog post, we discuss when to focus on detailed test cases, how summaries can save time, and the role each plays in efficient QA processes. Learn how to strike the right balance and tailor your test documentation for maximum impact. |
9 | Works as designed | Let's talk about the infamous phrase, “Works as designed.” Ever heard it? Of course, you have. It's often the developer's polite way of saying, “Not my problem.” But in QA, we know it's never that simple. In this episode of QA in a Box, we dive into what really happens when that phrase enters the conversation. Through two real-life stories, we'll explore how communication breakdowns can turn minor design quirks into major production disasters-and how collaboration between QA and developers can prevent them altogether. |
8 | Works on My Machine | In this week's episode of QA in a Box, we're tackling one of the most legendary phrases in software development: "Works on my machine." You know it, you've heard it, and if you're in QA, you've probably rolled your eyes at it more times than you can count. |
7 | How Bugs Escape | In today's episode of "QA in a Box," we're diving into the exciting happenings at the QA Summit in Bangalore, India. This two-day event, themed "Engineering the Future of Testing: Quality, Innovation, and Agility," brings together global leaders and innovators to discuss the latest in software testing and quality assurance. |
6 | Zero Downtime in QA | In this episode of QA in a Box, we explore the critical concept of achieving zero downtime in QA environments. Drawing insights from the blog post "Zero Downtime in QA", we discuss strategies for minimizing disruptions, ensuring seamless testing, and maintaining high-quality deliverables even during significant transitions or deployments. Whether you're managing infrastructure changes or handling dynamic testing needs, this episode offers practical tips to keep your QA process running smoothly. |
5 | Five Answers QA Gives to Dev When Testing Changes | In this episode, we dive into the dynamic relationship between QA and Development, exploring the "Five Answers QA Gives to Dev When Testing Changes." Learn how Quality Assurance professionals tackle change validations, respond to developer queries, and ensure smooth implementations. Packed with insights and practical tips, this episode sheds light on how QA can bridge the gap between teams and keep the development process on track. Whether you're in QA, a developer, or simply curious about the behind-the-scenes of software testing, this podcast is for you! |
4 | Blue-Green Deployment | Unlock the secrets of Blue-Green Deployment, a powerful DevOps strategy for seamless software releases with zero downtime. In this episode, we break down how Blue-Green Deployment works, its advantages for minimizing risk, and real-world scenarios where it shines. Whether you're a developer, QA engineer, or IT professional, learn how this deployment method ensures smooth transitions, quick rollbacks, and enhanced user experience. Tune in to discover how to make your deployments faster, safer, and more efficient! |
3 | Underestimate the Power of a Good Test Case | Test cases play an important role in Quality Assurance. In this episode, we look at the blog post NEVER Underestimate the Power of a Good Test Case. We will see how test cases can help find bugs in the software. We'll look at some real-world examples, some tips for writing effective test cases and how they save time, mitigate risk, and boost confidence in any release. In case you are interested in testing or want to understand why test cases are the best friend of a QA engineer, you should listen in! |
2 | Risk Based Testing | In this episode, we dive deep into the world of risk-based testing and how it can revolutionize your QA strategy. Learn how to focus on high-risk areas, avoid the pitfalls of testing everything, and deliver better quality assurance through strategic risk assessment. We'll share real-world stories, practical tips, and techniques to help you intelligently identify and prioritize risks. Whether you're a seasoned QA professional or just starting out, this episode will provide valuable insights to enhance your testing approach and ensure your software's reliability and performance. Tune in to discover how to test smarter, not harder, and make a significant impact on your QA efforts. |
1 | The Silent QA Detective | QA in A Box: Welcome to the first episode of the QA in a Box Podcast! Join us as we dive into fascinating topics, share insights, and explore the world through a fresh perspective-whether it's tech tips, QA insights, or behind-the-scenes stories from cryan.com. Tune in for a quick dose of information and inspiration each day! |