Software Quality Assurance consists of a means of monitoring the software engineering processes and methods used to ensure quality. It does this by means of audits of the quality management system under which the software system is created. These audits are backed by one or more standards, usually ISO 9000.
It is distinct from software quality control which includes reviewing requirements documents, and software testing. SQA encompasses the entire software development process, including software design, coding, source code control, code reviews, change management, configuration management, and release management. Whereas software quality control is a control of products and typically at the end of a project life cycle (similar to end of manufacturing line), software quality assurance is a control of over processes.
The needs of SQA:
Improved customer satisfaction
Reduced cost of development
Reduced cost of maintenance
Typical job descriptions (from salary.com)
Software Quality Assurance
Develops, publishes, and implements test plans. Writes and maintains test automation. Develops quality assurance standards. Defines and tracks quality assurance metrics such as defect densities and open defect counts. Requires a bachelor’s degree and 2-4 years of experience coding in C, C++, Java. Must have a working knowledge of quality assurance methodologies. Familiar with NT, UNIX and/or Solaris environments. Relies on experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals. Performs a variety of tasks. Works under general supervision; typically reports to a manager. A certain degree of creativity and latitude is required.
Software Quality Assurance, Sr.
Develops, publishes, and implements test plans. Writes and maintains test automation. Develops quality assurance standards. Defines and tracks quality assurance metrics such as defect densities and open defect counts. Requires a bachelor’s degree and at least 5 years of experience coding in C, C++, Java. Must have a working knowledge of quality assurance methodologies. Familiar with NT, UNIX and/or Solaris environments. Relies on experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals. Performs a variety of tasks. May lead and direct the work of others. Works under general supervision; typically reports to a manager. A certain degree of creativity and latitude is required.
Total Quality Manager
Manages an organization’s total quality function. Responsible for planning total quality policies, programs, and initiatives. Requires a bachelor’s degree and at least 7 years of experience in the field. Familiar with a variety of the field’s concepts, practices, and procedures. Relies on extensive experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals. Performs a variety of tasks. Leads and directs the work of others. A wide degree of creativity and latitude is expected. Typically reports to a head of a unit/department.
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