QA: How to grow and maintain a Testing Organization?

Challenge

• Managing or leading a testing team is probably one of the most challenging positions in the IT industry.
• Usually understaffed, lacks appropriate tooling, and financing.
• Deadlines don't move but the testing phase is continually being pressured by product delays.
• Motivation and retention of key testing personnel under these conditions is critical.

Tips

• If the timelines are impacted modify the Test Plan appropriately in terms of Scope.
• Clearly communicate the situation to the testing team and project management.
• Keep clear lines of communication to Development and project management.
• Whenever possible sell, sell, sell the importance and contributions of the Testing Team.
• Ensure the testing organization has clearly defined roles for each member of the team and a well-defined career path.
• Measure and communicate testing return on investment -- if the detected defect would have reached the field what would have been the cost.
• Explain testing expenditures in terms of investment (ROI) not cost.
• Finally, never lose your cool.

Reference: http://www.devbistro.com/articles/Testing/Role-of-Test-Lead-Manager