Managing the Test People: A Guide to Practical Technical Management

Managing the Test People was written for managers, leads, and those who may soon find themselves in a technical leadership position. It focuses on some of the unique problems in the software quality assurance profession, yet the bullk of the book is applicable to any technical management job. In this book you will find practical advice for the novice and affirmation for the expert. Written from a practitioner's viewpoint, it contains real world stories illustrating the concepts discussed in the text.

Author Judy McKay has been in software management for over 20 years, working in a variety of companies. Judy has always been struck by the lack of practical, real world advice in general management books. Yes, all those methods theoretically should work, until you add in the politics of the environment, the technical work that must be done and, of course, those pesky people who seem intent on fouling up your plans. Managing the Test People is real - it's about the real world where there are real problems and real people, and it provides viable solutions that can actually be implemented.

Topics covered include:
- Making the First Impression
- Evaluating Your Staff
- Creating Procedures and Processes
- Tailoring Job Descriptions
- Interviewing and Hiiring
- Layofffs and Terminations
- Mapping and Assigning People to Projects
- Selecting Your Project Leaders
- Reward Systems and Growth Plans
- Inward and Outward Communication
- Creating Synergy and Pride
- How To Be an Effective Manager
- Conducting Reviews
- Growing Your Staff

Learn time-proven management techniques from a 20 year veteran of the high tech industry.