Paths to Testing: Why Women Enter and Remain in Software Testing?

Paths to Testing: Why Women Enter and Remain in Software Testing?

연구 분야: Verification

학회: FSE 2024: Companion Proceedings of the 32nd ACM International Conference on the Foundations of Software Engineering

Women bring unique problem-solving skills to software development, often favoring a holistic approach and attention to detail. In software testing, precision and attention to detail are essential as professionals explore system functionalities to identify defects. Recognizing the alignment between these skills and women's strengths can derive strategies for enhancing diversity in the field. This study investigates the motivations behind women choosing careers in software testing, aiming to provide insights into their reasons for entering and remaining in the field. We used a cross-sectional survey methodology following established software engineering guidelines, collecting data from women in software testing to explore their motivations, experiences, and perspectives. Our findings reveal that women enter software testing due to increased entry-level job opportunities, work-life balance, and even fewer gender stereotypes. Their motivations to stay include the impact of delivering high-quality software, continuous learning opportunities, and the challenges the activities bring to them. However, inclusiveness and career development in the field need improvement for sustained diversity. Preliminary yet significant, these findings offer insights for researchers and practitioners towards the understanding of women's motivations in software testing and how this can be used to foster a more inclusive and equitable industry landscape.