This week, Rose went on the record with Maegan Heuser, a software QA engineer, who is currently leading quality assurance on a variety of HGTV projects. Originally from Massachusetts, Maegan made her way to Virginia two years ago and has been an instrumental member of the quality assurance team for Brightspot, formerly Perfect Sense. Rose spoke with Maegan about the unique challenges of QA at Brightspot, the traits needed to be successful in her role, and the importance of communication in her work. More importantly, however, they talked about the Avengers!
How long have you been working here at Brightspot?
It will be two years as of August 1st.
How did you find out about Brightspot?
I moved down here from Massachusetts about 2 years ago. I have a friend, who knew Chris Cover from AOL. He talked with Cover, who was looking to fill a QA position at the time, and sent along my resume. So, it was some helpful connections that brought me here!
What was your latest project and what role did you play on the team?
My latest project is HGTV, which I've worked on for the last 18 months. I started on Front Door, went to Gardens, and then oversaw a complete HGTV re-design integration with CQ. Basically, I serve as the lead working alongside Rebecca, who is based in Arizona. We communicate back and forth and have a lot of fun.
What do you find most interesting about QA?
Each site we build is completely different. Brightspot is a unique CMS, built to meet the client's needs, so we are challenged to adapt to those needs. Seeing the different way each site is built and having to adjust my QA perspective on each project is a cool challenge.
QA involves a lot of communication between designers, developers, and operations. How do you successfully communicate with all of these different people to make sure sites launch on time and meet our partners' expectations?
Yeah, communication is very key. Obviously, we ask developers any question we have no matter if it's a small or big detail. If they're in the office, I will walk over, sit with them, and discuss my issues. Same with the designers. When we don't think something looks right, we go and talk with them. We simply can't be afraid to ask questions or stand up and say something is incorrect.
What is your favorite part about working for Brightspot?
Interacting with everyone in his or her different roles. Everyone is so nice here.
What traits or characteristics help make someone successful at QA? why?
Being open to anything that is thrown your way is essential. You have to be able to go with the flow.
If a movie was produced about your life, who would play you, and why?
Oh boy! I have to think. Actually, I do not know I've never thought of that before. I am not sure.
What was the last movie you saw?
The Avengers: Age of Ultron, which was amazing! I love Marvel and the Avengers!
