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QA and Beta Test Manager Job Descriptions
Quick Summary
Job descriptions for QA Manager and Beta Test Program Manager which show the true breadth of these roles when done right.
What this is
Example descriptions for three test-related roles needed on a system development project:
- QA Test Manager (or Key Contributor in an environment not large enough to warrant a QA/test staff) - Responsible for planning and managing the execution of all internal testing before a product/system is ready for beta test at a customer.
- Beta Program Manager - Responsible for planning overall efforts to cultivate customer relationships to provide beta test sites and customer groups for individual beta test efforts.
- Beta Test Manager - Responsible for managing the testing at a specific customer site or sites, when beta testing involves physically placing equipment/systems at a customer for use during normal or simulated operation in that real-world environment.
Why it's useful
Testing management roles are not to be taken lightly and not for the faint of heart! Nor are these functions "end of the project only" roles, as so many times they are relegated to be. Test managers have important insights for the front-end of the project, from insights into customer needs, to plan elements for much later testing -- equipment needs, personnel needs, etc. They should be involved during the project in design reviews and more detailed test planning, as well as customer planning for beta tests, and reviews of user documentation.
The material in this document is intended to show the true breadth and depth of these roles and provide detailed lists of responsibilities that will ensure the functions get covered and covered thoroughly.
How to use it
Read the role descriptions and decide whether the role as described is needed for your projects. If so, determine whether these functions are currently covered by a defined functional position or team position.
- If so, read the detailed responsibilities and ensure that ALL the responsibilities are being handled. Review the list with the person(s) currently handling the role to get missing items into their "list of responsibilities."
- If not, discuss with management and determine how to get these important roles covered. Staff a new position? Identify an internal person to take the role? Assign items on the responsibility lists to people filling other roles?
Especially ask yourself if the people filling these roles are involved early enough in the project to have input to design reviews, perform early test planning etc.
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