Many of you work in the software testing field. You have access to a lot of confidential information. This is a real privilege, but also an obligation. The obligation to follow a code of ethics. I would like to share here the code of ethics defined by the International Software Testing Quality Board (ISTQB) specifically for testers.
To be a « certified software tester » you must follow this code of ethics:
PUBLIC – We must act in accordance with the public interest.
CLIENT AND EMPLOYER – We ensure that the results they provide (on the products and systems they test) meet the highest possible professional standards.
JUDGMENT – We must maintain the integrity and independence of our professional judgment.
MANAGEMENT – As managers and test leaders, we must subscribe to and promote an ethical approach to software test management.
PROFESSION – We must promote the integrity and reputation of the profession while respecting the public interest.
COLLABORATORS – We must be fair and supportive with your colleagues and promote cooperation with software developers.
AUTO – We must participate in continuing education regarding the practice of our profession and promote an ethical approach to the practice of the profession.
It is sometimes difficult to act fully according to these principles. But if you follow the news (for example: concerning a major German car manufacturer, …), it is time to remember that – WE – must all act according to these principles and that most of us already do. What do you think?
To learn more about ISTQB: http://www.istqb.org/
The full Code of Ethics is part of the ISTQB curriculum for Certified Foundation Level Testers (CFTL) (see page 20).
