Podcast Episode 120 – Does the role of the SDET have a future?

Welcome to another Testing Peers podcast episode.

This time, join Chris, David, Richard Bradshaw and Al Goodall (whose surname Chris had some real issues remembering, sorry Al!)

In this episode, the Peers talk about the role of the SDET. Is it SDEad?

To break the ice, Al leads the group into a discussion about the best live albums, in our humble opinions. Shout-outs to Linkin Park, Sky, Raye, Live Aid, Iron Maiden, U2, Seal and Hoobastank!


The main topic dives into the main topic – the role of the SDET.

What does it mean? Is it a synonym for a test automation engineer? Are you a tester if you’re an SDET? What does the role of an SDET look like where you work?

Chris asks his favourite AI tool for a definition to stimulate the conversation.

“The main difference between a software development engineer in test and a test automation engineer is focus and responsibility.
An SDET focuses on bridging the gap between development and testing processes. And a test automation engineer focuses on designing and implementing automated tests.”

The Peers talk about context, focus, tooling, frameworks, responsibility, problem-solving and quality!

What do you think the future for the SDET is?


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Thanks to our brand new sponsors – NFocus Testing.

nFocus are a UK based software testing company. They’ve been supporting businesses for 24 years by providing services that include burst resource, accelerated test automation, performance testing and fully managed testing services. In 2021, they launched a Test Automation Academy to create amazing testers and they’ve now created jobs for 48 people in our industry in just under three years!

nFocus were a big part of PeersCon in 2024, really grateful for all they do supporting the Testing Peers.

www.nfocus.co.uk and info@nfocus.co.uk for anyone wanting to get in touch.

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