Many of you are working in software testing. You have access to lots of confidential information. This is a real privilege but at the same time it comes with an obligation, too. The obligation to follow a code of ethics. I want to share here code of ethics defined by the International Software Testing Quality Board (ISTQB) specifically for testers.
To be a “certified software tester” you need to follow this code of ethics:
PUBLIC – We should act consistently with the public interest.
CLIENT AND EMPLOYER – We shall ensure that the deliverables they provide (on the products and systems they test) meet the highest professional standards possible.
JUDGMENT – We shall maintain integrity and independence in our professional judgment.
MANAGEMENT – We as test managers and leaders shall subscribe to and promote an ethical approach to the management of software testing.
PROFESSION – We shall advance the integrity and reputation of the profession consistent with the public interest.
COLLEAGUES – We shall be fair to and supportive with your colleagues and promote cooperation with software developers.
SELF – We shall participate in lifelong learning regarding the practice of our profession and shall promote an ethical approach to the practice of the profession.
Sometimes it is difficult to act fully according to these principles. But if you follow the news (eg: regarding a major German car maker,…), it’s time to remember that – WE – must all act according to them and 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 Certified Tester Foundation Level (CFTL) syllabus of ISTQB (see page 20).
