Smoke testing is defined as a quick check of the core, vital functionality of a product using a minimal set of tests. Its purpose is to determine if the software is stable enough to proceed with further, more detailed testing. It quickly assesses whether the main features are working, ensuring that the build is viable and doesn't require an immediate rollback.
This video lecture focuses on the theoretical foundations of software testing. The speaker discusses the importance of understanding testing theory for interviews and practical application, critiques the ISTQB certification, and elaborates on various testing approaches and types, including black-box, white-box, exploratory, and regression testing. The lecture also emphasizes the importance of proactive learning and self-improvement for testers.
The speaker views the ISTQB certification as "so-so" and frankly states they do not support it. They believe that the certification has become less about actual testing knowledge and more about English language proficiency, as exams often involve subtle linguistic nuances. The speaker also notes that companies that are outsourcing or reselling resources may value such certifications to increase their perceived value to clients. However, they feel that the content has become unnecessarily inflated beyond the essential theory needed for practical application and interviews.