QA Analyst vs. QA Tester: What Are the Differences?

A career in quality assurance can be both challenging and rewarding. Two common positions in this field are that of a QA analyst and a QA tester. Though these roles share some similarities, there are several key differences between them.

In this article, we discuss the differences between a QA analyst and a QA tester, and we provide additional quality assurance roles you may be interested in pursuing.

What is a QA Analyst?

QA Analysts are responsible for ensuring the quality of digital products through comprehensive testing. They work with product developers and other stakeholders to create test plans and cases, and then they execute those tests to find bugs and deficiencies. QA Analysts also create detailed reports of their findings so that product teams can address the issues and improve the quality of the product. In some cases, QA Analysts may also be responsible for training other team members on best testing practices.

What is a QA Tester?

QA Testers test software to ensure it meets specific standards and requirements. They create test plans and cases, execute tests, and report and track defects. QA Testers work with developers to reproduce and resolve defects. They also may create automated tests to improve the efficiency of the testing process. QA Testers typically have a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field. They also should have strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

QA Analyst vs. QA Tester

Here are the main differences between a QA analyst and a QA tester.

Job Duties

QA analysts use their expertise to create test plans and conduct research. They also evaluate the effectiveness of existing QA processes and devise new methods for improving them. In addition, QA analysts monitor the progress of a project from start to finish and provide feedback on any issues that arise.

QA testers perform manual and automated testing duties. During testing, they identify bugs in the software and report them to their supervisors. QA testers also document each step they take while testing and keep detailed records of their findings. Finally, QA testers provide feedback to their colleagues to help improve the product before it goes live.

Job Requirements

QA analysts and testers typically need a bachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering or another related field. They also need to have experience with different types of software testing tools and methodologies. Some employers may prefer candidates who have a master’s degree in business administration or management, but it is not required for most entry-level positions. Additionally, many QA analysts and testers pursue certifications through the International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB) or the American Software Testing Qualifications Board (ASTQB). These organizations offer training programs that teach professionals how to use different software testing tools and methodologies.

Work Environment

QA analysts and QA testers often work in different environments. While both professionals may work for software companies, the analyst typically works in an office setting while the tester usually works on-site with clients or customers. The analyst may also work remotely from home offices.

QA testers may travel to meet with clients or attend conferences where they can share their knowledge of testing techniques with other professionals. They may also visit clients’ locations to test products before release.

Skills

Both quality assurance analysts and testers use several similar skills to perform their jobs, such as attention to detail, critical thinking and problem-solving. Both also tend to understand basic testing concepts and have the ability to create test cases and follow instructions. However, their differing responsibilities result in the requirement for different skills.

For example, quality assurance analysts benefit from having analytical skills when reviewing data to identify trends or issues. They also use their communication skills to document their findings and make recommendations to improve the quality of a product.

Quality assurance testers use their technical skills to execute tests and assess whether a product meets specific standards. They also use their interpersonal skills to collaborate with other team members, such as developers, to resolve any identified issues.

Salary

The average salary for a QA analyst is $73,639 per year, while the average salary for a QA tester is $67,469 per year. The average salary for both positions may vary depending on the size of the company, the location of the job and the level of experience the employee has prior to pursuing either position.