Beauty in Software Testing - Blimey! Beauty is probably the last thing we keep in mind when it comes to testing. As we mature, we seem to want self-actualization, doing things simply for the love of doing things. As an individual, I see myself as a a craftsman, about creating works of art.
I wrote a column on "Aesthetics in Software Testing" in the Tea Time with Testers Feb 2011 eZine.
A small excerpt from this..
Software testing is typically seen as yet another job to be done in the software development lifecycle. It is typically seen as a clichéd activity consisting of planning, design/update of test cases, scripting and execution. Is there an element of beauty in software testing? Can we see outputs of this activity as works of art?
Any activity that we do can be seen from the viewpoints of science, engineering and art. An engineering activity typically produces utilitarian artifacts, whereas an activity done with passion and creativity produces works of art, this goes beyond the utility value. it takes a craftsman to produce objects-de-art, while he takes a good engineer to produce objects with high utility value.
An object of beauty satisfies the five senses (sight, hearing, touch, smell and taste) and touches the heart whereas an object of utility satisfies the rational mind. So what are the elements of software testing that touch our heart?
Would love to hear your comments on this..
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