Rainbow Testing

But I’m not qualified!

….you think to yourself while pondering your client’s latest request.

And here is your dilemma: you are being asked to perform some task or project for which you have reason to believe that you are not qualified.

We’ve all been there, well, if you haven’t yet, you will be some day so let’s break this down.

Just how unqualified is unqualified? Is this about stepping up your game? Stepping outside of your comfort zone? Or is this about a completely different professional discipline?

Let’s start with the assumption that you and your consulting firm have correctly represented your experience, certification and educational background. If that’s not the case, then you have a different problem.

If you’ve been asked to step up your game or get out of your comfort zone, then you need to do some math. Given the time and expense it takes to hire a new person, and the outside time expense and effort it would take you to acquire the knowledge and increased skills necessary to complete the task; is this worth it for you and your client?

You’ll do better if you have colleagues who are already masters of the skill set you’re trying to acquire or improve. Having a mentor or at least some “over the shoulder” guidance and advice makes a big difference.

It’s less expensive for you if your consulting firm can help out with some educational assistance. If you’ve been successful with this before then you can have more confidence in taking on the learning task and more likely to get support.

Availability of books and other materials is critical. For example there are plenty of books on SQL, VBScript, working with offshore teams, but companies like Mercury who provide important software programs (Quality Center, LoadRunnner etc.) keep tight control on product information and training. Are you trying to learn something that cannot be cheaply or self taught?

Perhaps you are dealing with a more serious situation. Your client is impressed with your breadth of knowledge in Software Testing and has an idea that you could perform a task that is well outside of your discipline. You simply are not qualified to do what they want and they don’t want to hire another party. They are determined to accomplish this and want your professional help.

If you really do have a breadth of experience then you may be qualified to help them more clearly understand their needs and maybe you can help them prepare themselves for seeking the additional help that matches those needs.

Most testers are dogged if not expert researchers and this can be an invaluable resource for a client who is really lost in the woods. You can be the person who pulls together the requirements, outlines the standards that are a part of that other professional discipline and proffers the alternatives that give your client a real educated choice.

Don’t be shy about letting your consulting company know about your client’s new needs either. An good account manager is trained to follow up on such a lead and provide your client with convincing and (hopefully) reputable arguments for getting the job done “right.” And your company is generally invested in your credibility. They won’t want you to take on a task at which you would inevitably fail.

Staying honest about your limitations, while still being willing to go the extra mile to make sure that your client gets their needs met in the best possible way won’t hurt your opportunities. In fact, it’s more likely to enhance them.