Standing on the shoulder of giants : A holistic approach to QA
Speaker
Target group
Intermediate (basic understanding of the topic)
Description
Quality is often treated as a technical discipline, but in practice it is strongly influenced by how people think, collaborate, and make decisions. This talk explores how cognitive load affects software quality and why many QA initiatives fail not because of missing tools, but because of overloaded teams and unclear systems.
Building on principles from W. Edwards Deming and modern cognitive science, the session examines how quality can emerge when organizations reduce unnecessary complexity and create systems that support learning and flow.
Through practical examples, the speakers will show how different organizational contexts shape QA culture and influence outcomes. The talk also considers the role of leadership decisions, team structures, and ways of working in enabling sustainable quality practices.
Participants will leave with practical ideas for reducing complexity, improving flow, and approaching QA as a broader organizational capability rather than only a technical activity.
You will learn
How cognitive load impacts software quality and team performance
How principles inspired by Deming can improve quality at a system level
How organizational culture can undermine or support QA efforts
How leadership decisions influence quality outcomes
Practical ways to reduce complexity and improve flow in QA work