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Before a product comes to market, it undergoes a rigorous process, from requirements gathering to the final product. Integral to this process is a critical stage known as ‘quality control.’ In the information technology (IT) industry, these quality controls are also applied and secured by individuals called software quality engineers (SQEs).
The role of these SQEs is valuable as they support and drive critical aspects of people’s lives. According to American Chase’s SQE Shravan Pargaonkar, SQEs aim to identify and address potential issues in the software development lifecycle to deliver high-quality software. They ensure that modern users’ applications are reliable and resilient, meeting their requirements and expectations.
In Pargaonkar’s scholarly articles and upcoming book, “A Guide to Software Quality Engineering,” he discusses in-depth approaches and strategies that SQEs use today. He shares best practices on how these methods can be effectively implemented to set quality standards and help other SQEs excel in their roles as well.
The unsung heroes of quality assurance
SQEs are entrusted with maintaining and enhancing the caliber of software applications. Though mainly behind the scenes, their work is fundamental to the seamless functioning of countless systems and applications that form the backbone of industries today. Pargaonkar claims this is challenging as it undergoes a multi-layered process that demands keen attention to detail and meticulous precision.
In his seven years of experience, Pargaonkar’s expertise spans the full spectrum of software quality management. He ensures that software products meet and exceed the company and user’s objectives through rigorous analysis and thorough software and user-interface testing, providing them with a positive experience.
The Lean Six Sigma Certificate holder has crafted detailed test plans that guide other SQE projects’ testing direction. These plans encompass the scope, methodology, timeline, and resources necessary for effective testing at various usage scenarios. This proactively helps mitigate potential consequences, safeguarding the integrity and efficacy of software solutions.
“Software performance is ever-changing. Our tasks do not end at fault detection. How we solve these issues is what is important,” Pargaonkar shares.
Responds to digital threats
Security has become a major priority as software becomes deeply integrated across industries. In recent years, there has been a significant rise in cyberattacks aimed at exploiting vulnerabilities in software systems. In 2023, cybersecurity was named as a primary concern by 84% of businesses as attacks grow more frequent and advanced. This escalating threat pressures SQEs like Pargaonkar to fortify software against emerging dangers.
With cyber threats on the rise, SQEs’ responsibilities have expanded beyond traditional quality assurance. They now serve as critical defenders against digital threats targeting vulnerable software across sectors like healthcare and finance.
Pargaonkar mentions, “Cyber threats are not only becoming more frequent but also more sophisticated. This requires a more preemptive strike and approach.”
A graduate of Master’s in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Texas, the engineer’s efforts in strengthening software against cyber threats extend beyond traditional quality checks. He delves into the web of potential vulnerabilities modern software systems face, from data breaches to malware attacks. His expertise enables him to simulate cyberattacks and identify weak points in software defenses before threats can harm applications or disrupt operations.
SQE pursuit of excellence
In software development, SQEs like Pargaonkar face a fundamental challenge: they cannot fix what they do not know. This insight highlights the need for continuous exploration and learning within their field. The advancement of technology, characterized by new programming languages, frameworks, and cybersecurity threats, demands that SQEs continuously dive into the latest technological advancement, test emerging software trends, and understand complex security vulnerabilities.
These challenges, however, also present Shravan Pargaonkar with an opportunity. By constantly learning new technologies, he can develop and implement higher software quality and security standards. This leads to the establishment of robust frameworks and best practices that can shape the future of software development in the US and the world.
As illustrated by Pargaonkar’s work, SQEs’ diligence and expertise serve as the first line of defense against threats to the critical software infrastructure underlying society today. Their commitment to quality and security will be crucial to ensuring that technology and software quality engineering continuously develop reliable and safe technologies in the years to come.
