Step into the world of digital craftsmanship as we sit down with Ananias Ngoasheng, a skilled QA (quality assurance) engineer at 24.com. In this candid interview, he takes us through his daily routine, challenges, and aspirations, providing a grounded perspective on the world of coding and development.
Hi Ananias, could you shed some light on the focal point of your work as a QA engineer at 24.com?
My primary focus lies in regression testing. This involves rigorously testing the entire application to ensure that any new changes or features introduced do not disrupt the system's functionality. I also create new tests, maintain the existing ones, and collaborate closely with developers to identify and address any issues that arise.
So then what does a typical day in your shoes look like?
My day kicks off with a deep dive into the sites under the 24.com umbrella, such as News24, Landbou and SNL24. I start by tackling a series of new tickets, meticulously executing them manually to ensure seamless interactions. Following this, I construct comprehensive tests for these interactions, setting up checkpoints to validate data accuracy. It's crucial that these tests continue to pass even after updates or alterations.
Can you elaborate on the challenges you encounter across these multiple tasks?
One of the challenges we often face is related to subscription processing. Sometimes, users encounter issues with their card details not being saved correctly, leading to complications with debiting. Another common issue is log-out difficulties, where the system fails to log users out properly. These challenges could potentially disrupt the user experience, so our team is dedicated to resolving them promptly before they impact our users.
How does your team's work benefit subscribers and users?
Our work plays a pivotal role in ensuring a seamless transition for users from traditional media to digital platforms. For instance, older generations are embracing technology by using mobile devices to access news on our sites. This shift also offers cost-effective access to information. Our subscribers are always among the first to be informed about current events, and we work diligently to ensure their access remains uninterrupted.
Looking ahead, what role do you envision AI playing in your industry?
AI has immense potential to enhance user experiences. Personalised content recommendations, chatbots, and intelligent search algorithms can elevate the way users interact with our platforms. We've already introduced a reading assistant, and I believe AI can further optimise this feature. Additionally, AI's automation capabilities can streamline development processes, from testing to data analysis, ultimately leading to more innovative and efficient solutions.
How do you find your experience at 24.com overall?
My time at 24.com has been quite fulfilling. Coming from a banking background, I appreciate the more relaxed and growth-oriented environment here. Mistakes are part of the learning process, and the culture encourages us to learn from them. Collaboration is key, and the camaraderie among team members is truly exceptional. Even though I haven't been to the Cape Town office for work, I've had the chance to experience the warm environment during various functions.
Lastly, what keeps you inspired and motivated in your role?
The collective effort of the 24.com team truly inspires me. Being part of a platform that informs and empowers South Africans in their daily lives is immensely rewarding. Witnessing the shift from traditional newspapers to digital consumption fuels my motivation. The opportunity to leave a mark on the industry and improve processes is what keeps me enthusiastic about every new day.
It's clear that Ananias Ngoasheng's role as a QA engineer goes far beyond lines of code. His dedication to ensuring a seamless digital experience for users showcases the importance of meticulous testing and a strong commitment to technological progress.
