Think Again: Function, Form, and Fun of Mind Mapping

Mind Mapping: Convergence of Art, Science, and Engineering in Software Testing

The software testers of the 21st century, who are striving towards increasing their level of maturity in the profession, not only need to know more or do more, but be more. They need to understand that the goals of software testing go beyond increasing software quality. They also need to be aware of the international standards for software testing, and make sure that software testing-related commitments are deliberated early and carefully, while minimizing any cognitive biases and eliminating any misconceptions. In other words, software testers need to think in multiple different ways, from different viewpoints. The technique of mind mapping, along with the technique of Six Thinking Hats, both of which have their origins in cognitive psychology, can help software testers think collaboratively, and think “positively” as well as “negatively”, in a timely manner, before making crucial decisions. For example, such decision-making is especially necessary during compatibility testing, exploratory testing, and scenario testing. Indeed, if conducted properly, mind mapping has a positive ROI, and can help a person throughout his or her role as a software tester, the path he or she may need to take, and the journey that he or she may need to make, towards “Testing Wisdom”.