Freelance Testers - a smarter, cost effective way for startups

Freelance Testers – a smarter, cost effective way for startups

Posted on 28. Oct, 2007 by Anne-Marie Charrett in Freelance, Software Testing, business

ITnews had an article recently on startups. It examines what to look for in a startup, and also how to minimise the risks. Here’s an excerpt:

‘A startup’s immaturity will be reflected in the quality and capabilities of its product. As you would when considering an established vendor, a CIO must conduct technical due diligence….You can minimize these risks in several ways. First, do extensive pilot testing, and start with a small deployment’

A good freelance software tester can provide real benefit to startups by verifying and/or validating software at a reasonable price. This builds confidence in a product and is useful for promotional purposes. Its also useful to demonstrate third party verification of technical claims when seeking additional funding.
This is how a freelance software tester can reduce cost yet still provide a quality service.

Freelance software testers are ‘on-demand’

The nature of software testing demands flexibility as the testing effort often fluctuates throughout a software development life cycle.

At the beginning of an SDLC, test planning, scheduling and scoping of tests takes place. It can be a very busy time for testers, scoping out whats to be tested, prioritising tests, planning and creating test cases, organising the test environment, the list can go on..

However, there’s often a lull after the initial frantic test planning. This is where all test cases are written, the test environments is ready, and testing is ready to start. The trouble is, often the software to be tested is not.

Even when the software testing starts, it can be a start, stop, start affair as major problems are found and require fixing. These are not necessarily related to code, but can be in installation, configuration etc. A tester isn’t always needed but should be on call for when testing does begin.

It goes without saying that a software tester is available during the test execution phase, and perhaps due to time demands, needs to test beyond normal work hours.

A freelance software tester works only when its needed, this is a big saving in cost. This way you can still afford a quality software tester at a lesser price.

Freelance software testers listen to the customer

A good freelance tester, will be a good listener. By understanding the demands on a business, a freelance software tester is able to adapt the testing to meet the needs. This can be a great cost saving, as needs are met first and foremost. See my post on http://www.blog.testingtimes.com.au/?p=25 for the types of questions a freelance software tester should ask.

Freelance software testers are flexible in approach

A good freelance software tester understands the three key demands placed on any software project, namely, cost, time and quality. They have the liberty to be flexible in approach to testing in order to balance quality against its natural enemies; time and cost. If time is an issue, a freelance tester is able to prioritise the testing to ensure key functionality is tested. Budgets can be effectively managed by using ‘on-demand’ testing and fast-tracking planning where possible.

Freelance software testers need to you succeed

Like any other freelancer, reputation is paramount. A freelance software tester’s reputation is built on getting excellent customer referrals. They don’t rely on big marketing budgets or a platoon of sales people for their next job. They need their client to succeed and be profitable. That way, not only does word spread, but they get repeat business. It’s in our interest to ensure that you have the best quality product to sell.

Of course many of the attributes I have described in this article can be found in software testers everywhere. However, a freelancer has the added advantage of passing these cost savings on directly to the client, without the commitment of long term contracts.

The full ITnews article can be found at http://www.itnews.com.au/News/59326,opinion-startup-fundamentals.aspx

Anne-Marie Charrett runs a software testing company that specialises in testing software for high-tech companies and startups.

49 Responses to “Freelance Testers – a smarter, cost effective way for startups”

Amulya Miriam

30. Oct, 2007

Good Day,

I am a professional Software Tester and QA Analyst and have started freelancing for many projects around the globe.

Please let me know if you offer freelancing services for projects in line. If so, do contact me through e-mailfor further details.

Looking forward to hearing from you.

Regards
Amulya
Andrei

30. Oct, 2007

I agree that freelance software testers could be a good match for startups… but are “startups” good for a freelance software testing business? I suspect you can’t base your entire business around this market… the startups may not yet recognise the need for QA, may not have the money, could be risky, and might not have a steady flow of work.

Perhaps the best bet is to approach the investors that fund the startups and act on their behalf. Or perhaps approach the startups that have well and truly “started” and now have recognised the need for QA and are ready to take the next step…
Mohamed Basheer

28. Nov, 2007

i am basheer here Working as a Team leader in Software Testing in a reputed Organization in Chennai, india . I would like to Do the freelance in Software Testing . i have A Strong Knowledge in My Field and Ability To do the Projects Effectively i need Some Advice from the Free lance Experts How i start what are the Input creterias pls Help me its my Email safinbasheer@gmail.com
rucha

11. Dec, 2007

H e l l o ,

I am a professional Software Tester and have started freelancing for many projects around the globe.

Please let me know if you offer freelancing services for projects in line. If so, do contact me through e-mail for further details.

Looking forward to hearing from you.

Regards,
rucha
pankaj

02. Apr, 2008

I am a freelance QA engineer and have expertise in Web project testing – Please mail me at pankaj_kakani@yahoo.com for testing job
samangi

08. Apr, 2008

I am a freelance QA engineer and have expertise in Web project testing – Please mail me at above mail address for testing job
krishna

10. Apr, 2008

I’m working as software QA Lead in of the MNC comapany in pune. I’m very strong indatabase and datawarehouse projects.
Please let me know if you offer freelancing services for projects in line. If so, do contact me through e-mailfor further details.

Looking forward to hearing from you.

Regards
Prasad

27. Apr, 2008

I strongly believe in me in delivering an excellent product / project with appropriate testing and quality deliverables to the client within stipulated timelines! My Area of expertise includes, Web project testing, Telecom / Manlog domains and CRM / ERP packages
Riju Shajahan

30. Apr, 2008

Dear ,

I am software test engineer working for a riyadh based E-governance firm in KSA.

I am proficient Tester of web application in any platform.

My technical skill covers deep knowledge of
programming knowledge and also with testing tools like winrunner,QTP and webload.

Kindly contact me for Testing Webservices,Web Applications and windows Apps.

Thank you!!!!!!!!!!
Amandeep Singh

08. May, 2008

hi
I am freelance QA Engineer and expertise in website testing.
for testing job contact me on my email id;
amandeep.singh@live.com
Alla

24. May, 2008

We are a team of testers from Ukraine with expertize in web, mobile, desktop and embedded applications testing.
We have an excellent experience and deep knowledge in this area and would be happy to share it with you contributing to promotion of your product and enhancing its quality.
Do contact me to discuss your project with our QA Engineers: zhukarina@qarea.com!
Julia

24. May, 2008

Hi!

WE are ready to provide high quality of your products .Testing is our routine work and we really know how to make it with the best results ! Please contact me , if you need any testing services .

Cheers, Julia

Email: yulia.kosyanchuk@bughuntress.com
Yahoo: Yulia.Kosyanchuk@yahoo.com
ICQ: 282-724-493
Skype: pantera_yulia
AIM: yulia.kosyanchuk@gmail.com
Shruti Bahl

29. Jun, 2008

H e l l o ,

I have done B.Tech (IT). And i am havin 1+ year of experience in Software Testing. And i am interested in freelance software testing.
Please let me know if you offer freelancing services for projects in line. If so, do contact me through e-mail for further details.

Looking forward to hear from you.

Regards,
Shruti
Muhammad Abrar

05. Jul, 2008

Hi,

I’m a B.E. and I have 4+ years of experience in the testing arena. I’m currently looking for a freelance testing job. Kindly let me know if there are any suitable opportunities.

Warm Regards,
Muhammad Abrar
Mandar Bhogan

08. Jul, 2008

Hi,

I have done B.E.(IT). Also, I had completed Certification in Software Testing. And I am having 1+ year of experience in Software Testing. I am interested in freelance software testing.
Please let me know if you offer freelancing services for projects in line. If so, do contact me through e-mail for further details.

Looking forward to hear from you.

Regards,

Mandar Bhogan
Robin Panwar

08. Jul, 2008

Hi,

I have done M.Sc.(CS). Also, I had completed Certification in Software Testing. And I am having 2+ year of experience in Software Testing. I am interested in freelance software testing.
Please let me know if you offer freelancing services for projects in line. If so, do contact me through e-mail for further details.

Looking forward to hear from you.

Regards,
Robin Panwar

E-mail: robinhp23@gmail.com
Galina

24. Jul, 2008

I’m a QA and I have 3 years of experience in the testing. I am interested in freelance software testing.
Looking forward to hearing from you.
Ranganath S

01. Aug, 2008

Hi,

I have around 3+ years of experience in Testing and also i have worked for some of freelance projects.. If you have any oppurtunity kindly don’t miss to contact me..

Ranganath. S
get.ranganath@gmail.com
Neelima

04. Sep, 2008

Hi friends,

I have around 4+ years of experience in Testing. I ahaven;t yet worked for freelance projects. If you have an opportunity it would be really appreciable for me to work with and please update me on the same.

Neelima L.
nilimalimje@yahoo.com
Venna

15. Sep, 2008

I have done M.Sc.(CS). Also I am having 4+ year of experience in Software Testing (Web based, Client Server and Standalone applications). I am expertise in Online Shopping, Travels Booking, Data Pool Management, Retails, e-Governance, Stores & Purchase, Human Resource Management. I am interested in freelance software testing.
Please let me know if you offer freelancing services for projects in line. If so, do contact me through e-mail for further details.

Looking forward to hear from you.

Regards,
Venna.
E-Mail: haivenna@gmail.com
Ketan Soni

06. Nov, 2008

Masters of Computer Application having 4+yrs of wide experience in Software Testing and Test Automation. Have worked on multiple Web Test Automation project using commercial as well as open source tools.

Contact me for quality result.

Thanks,
- ketan.
Sridhar

10. Nov, 2008

Hi,

I have around 9 years experience in software testing of which 8 years in clustering and storage testing. I am expertiese in cluster and storage technology testing.

I am interested in freelance testing, please do me know if you have any opportunity for freelance testing projects.

Sridhar
sridharvb@gmail.com
Archna

15. Nov, 2008

M.Tech(CS)having 4+yrs of wide experience in Software Testing in Mobile domain. Have worked on multiple testing projects.
Contact me for quality result.

Thanks,
Archna Sharma
Aman

17. Nov, 2008
kanu

30. Nov, 2008

Hi,
I have been searching for freelance projects in testing but couldn’t find the right one.Please send me info regarding freelance websites for software testing.
My mail id is saccharine31@gmail.com
Veena Krishnamurthy

06. Dec, 2008

Hi,
I have almost 8 years of experience in Sofware testing and presently working as Test Manager in MNC, Bangalore. I am looking out for freelance projects in testing, Training on Software testing etc.Please send me info regarding freelance websites for software testing.
Mobile : 9740111558
Sibsankar

08. Dec, 2008

I am a freelance QA engineer and have expertise (2+)exp in Web project testing – Please mail me at sibsankardebnath@yahoo.co.in for testing job
Shailendra

10. Dec, 2008

Hi,
i am a Senier Test analyst in a reputed com.
i am interested in doing freelancing, so if anybody have such requirement then kindly let me know.

Thanks
Rajeshwari

12. Dec, 2008

Hi,

I have 1 year experience in software testing and searching for freelance projects in testing but how can I find the right one.Please send me info regarding freelance websites for software testing.
Sanjay

15. Dec, 2008

I have 1+ year experience in software testing and searching for freelance projects in testing .Please send me info regarding freelance websites for software testing.
I am putting up in Delhi/NCR
Appu

18. Dec, 2008

Hi,

I have around 3+ years of experience as QA Engineer.I worked on retail and financial domains.

Very much excited about freelance projects .Canyou please forward me the details of the freelance websites.
Utsa

19. Dec, 2008

hi
I have manual testing experience over 3 years in the IT Industry and now I am interested to do freelancing software testing job preferably from home
Pls suggest whether that is possible
Shumon Nandy

22. Dec, 2008

I am a professional tester. I have complied my graduation in Computer Science.

I have one year pule experience in SQA.Now I am a freelance SQA engineer.
Deepak Agarwal

30. Dec, 2008

Hi,
i am a Test analyst in the India’s top most IT company.
Now in my free time i am interested in doing freelancing, so if anybody have such requirement and wanted to take the benefits of my skills then kindly let me know.

Thanks
Basheer

15. Jan, 2009

Hi Folks ,

Let me know the Freelance Test projects in demand .

Thanks
Basheer
Dinesh Chavan

05. Mar, 2009

You explain complex topics in a simpler way. I am impressed by your approch. This is going to motivate us for long run down the line.
Wishing to be associated with you in near future and learn from you.
Thanks,
Dinesh
Naglaa Talat

11. Mar, 2009

I’ve been QC for almost a year now , i’m intersted in your offer
devraj

20. Mar, 2009

Hi i have 4+ years of experience in software testing.I have good exp in open source performance tools and functional tools.

I am yet to have experience in freelance testing.

Pl do inform me if any in devmegnaa@yahoo.com

regards,
dev
kishor

27. Apr, 2009

H e l l o ,

I have done B.E (IT). And i am havin 1+ year of experience in Software Testing. And i am interested in freelance software testing.
Please let me know if you offer freelancing services for projects in line. If so, do contact me through e-mail for further details. kishor86ster@gmail.com

Looking forward to hear from you.

Regards,
kishor
Dalia Yehia

01. May, 2009

I work from home quite frequently, i am 10 years experience in the software testing field working for a very big & multinational company & leading a team of 40 QEs.

I believe my work related duties in the quality field, consulting experience, business sensibilities, combination of technical skills, along with the certificates issued would serve well in this position.

we are a team of 5, looking for software testing jobs from home, intending to have software quality service company offering testing services in the future

If you are looking for test plan, testcases, traceability matrix, funtional testing, usability testing, UI testing, security testing, regression & Production testing, please contact us on dalia.yehia@yahoo.com
Rohit Kumar

05. May, 2009

H e l l o ,

I have done B.Tech. (IT). And i am having 3+ year of experience in Software Testing,Coding,and IT Managment Services. i having knowladge of QTP,load runner,Quality Center and some open source tools. i am interested in freelance software testing Project.Please let me know if you offer freelancing services for projects in line. If so, do contact me through e-mail for further details. verma.rohitkr@gmail.com

Looking forward to hear from you.

Thanks,
With Regards,
Rohit Kumar
Arslan

07. May, 2009

Hi,

I am a free lance lance Automation tester with experience in QTP with approx 4 years of QA experience including manual and automation related to online sales, CRM, SAP, web based and windows based applications and I have personal QTP access. I can build automation scripts online for your applications and thus help you to save costs. Email me at tester.arslan@gmail.com

Regards,
Mohammed Arslan
Amit Gupta

17. May, 2009

@Ketan Soni
Hi Ketan

i, amit gupta from thapar university, patiala persuing me(s/w engg) need help to implement project on automated test case generation from Formal Notations

plz tell me u contact details & ur work location

rgds
amit gupta
09915343225
Amit Gupta

17. May, 2009

@Neelima
Hi nilima

i, amit gupta from thapar university, patiala persuing me(s/w engg) need help to implement project on automated test case generation from Formal Notations

plz tell me u contact details & ur work location

rgds
amit gupta
09915343225
Arundhati Aravamudhan

19. May, 2009

Hello I am Software Tester with 4 Yrs of professional experience
————————————————————————-

• Experience in System Testing (Functional, Regression & GUI Testing), Performance Testing (Concurrent Users, Load & Stress Testing), Locale Testing, Acceptance and Cross-Platform Testing.
• Experience in writing Test Plan, Test Cases , Matrix and Business Scenarios
• Experience in Test Estimation, Bug Reporting and Analyzing.
• Experience in performing System Upgrades on live client environments
• Experience in handling Support Issues of the Clients
• Well acquainted with AGILE process, Build Release Cycle, Patch Release.
• Well versed with the SDLC and STLC life cycles

Get in touch with me for best deals: annu_1308@yahoo.co.in
Nahreen

17. Jun, 2009

Hi,
I have 3.5+ years of successful career in software testing. I haven’t yet worked for freelance projects. If you have an opportunity, it would be really appreciable for me to work with and please update me on the same.
I’m experienced in Front-End Testing, Back-end Testing and Web testing.
I have experience on different types of tests viz. functional, integration, regression, user acceptance tests.

Thanks
Nahreen
nkrakhi@yahoo.com
Dhananjay

31. Jul, 2009

I am B.Tech Graduate . I want to start my Career in Software Testing.
I am aware of all concept of Testing.. plz Tell me which is the Company where i will get the intial level of entry .
Salary is not a Constraint for me.
Dhananjay

08. Aug, 2009

I am B.Tech Graduate . I want to start my Career in Software Testing.
I am aware of all concept of Testing.. plz Tell me which is the Company where i will get the intial level of entry .
Salary is not a Constraint for me.
I am also a Certified tester from ISQTB
My Mail id is Dhananjaybhtt@Gmail.com
Kuldeep

25. Sep, 2009

Hi,

I have vast experience of testing various insurance projects and e-commerce sites.(around 8 yrs) and now want to do some free lancing work of software testing as well.

If any one has some work to start with would be of great help.

You can contact me at madaankuldeep@gmail.com

Thanks
Kuldeep

Maverick Tester – software tester