QA & Test Metrics

Most managers have heard the expression, "You can't improve what you can't measure." But how do you determine what to measure? The lack of a good answer to this question typically places most IT organizations into two distinct categories: those with no metrics program at all, or those that track metrics without identifying the critical measures that are most useful for their businesses’ continued growth and development.

For a successful metrics program, the measurements must align to the overall IT group goals as well as the business as a whole. Yet, metrics are often tracked based on what individuals have found useful in previous organizations or by simply using the default metrics provided in QA and test management tools.

Zenergy Technologies takes an alternate approach to IT metrics and measurement. Our consultants start by implementing a Goal-Question-Metric (GQM) process, which assists IT by assuring that all metrics align directly to business goals important to the organization as a whole. In this process Zenergy does the following:

• Performs a GQM session with relevant managers and directors to determine the business goals, ask questions regarding how IT can help meet those goals, and determine the metrics that will identify improvements aligned with those goals.
• Documents the key metrics and measurements identified during the GQM session and develop a high-level collection and tracking process.
• Works with the organization to initiate the collection and tracking processes.
• Performs a follow-up review to ensure processes continue to collect the correct metrics and are utilized appropriately. 

In some cases, an organization may believe they have the right tools, resources, and knowledge available to mount a metrics program and they simply desire guidance in starting. In these cases, Zenergy’s Metrics Jumpstart Program or Test Metrics Training may assist: 

• Metrics Jumpstart Program – Zenergy provides 15 to 20 common base measurements and metrics to derive useful information for the organization and generally identify areas of improvement in IT groups.
• Test Metrics Training – Zenergy provides key resources, usually in the QA or Testing department, with one day of training on the importance of metrics, how to initiate a GQM process, and what metrics can be tracked initially until a more mature metrics program is established.

Zenergy can ensure you are tracking the right metrics for your organization. Contact us today to learn more.