Managing Outsourced Testing----(3)onsite visit

Once the candidates have been narrowed again, it is time to do an onsite visit. The visit is critical to see firsthand how the lab is setup, what the work environment is like.

Take a lab tour.

• Does the lab look like a comfortable work environment?

  This is an area that typically gets taken for granted. The testing is being carried out by individuals. People need an environment, which is comfortable to work. Some labs are small and do not have any windows. The better the environment, the better the quality of work.

• Does the hardware seem well organized?

  Look around the lab. Look for different hardware. Ask them to locate some pieces. See how long it takes them.

• Does the lab meet security requirements?

  Does the organization have specific security requirements? Make sure the lab can meet those requirements. Some requirements could be the project does not have access to the internal LAN, or no dialup access to the outside world.

• Interview the testers

  These are the folks doing the actual work. Interview them. Find out if their previous test experiences are a match for your needs.