Quality assurance, or QA, may not be the glamour job of the software world. Rather than developing new applications, QA engineers test products built by others. While the work may not offer the thrill of creating something new, it is critical to any product's success.

But if QA isn't the job for glory seekers, it is well-suited for methodical, tech-savvy types who strive for perfection. What's more, QA is one way to break into the information technology world and gain programming know-how, especially if you have expertise in another field, whether accounting or healthcare.

Years ago, the software industry didn't have much need for testers, explains Mikhail Portnov, director of the Portnov Computer School in Mountain View, California, which specializes in QA training. Until the 1980s, computer users were often adept with technology; users tested the software. That still happens, but now everyone from 4-year-olds on up uses PCs, requiring more rigorous testing before a product is released. With "quality" a watchword throughout the highly competitive industry, companies do not have the luxury of releasing software that hasn't undergone substantial testing.

What's Involved in QA?

Testing software is the heart of quality assurance, but not all testing is created equal. Black box testing involves testing software from the user's perspective, seeking out bugs, inconsistencies and other problems. White box testing is closer to software development, typically running tests on the code before it is fully integrated into the product. Variations exist, of course, and other testing gauges how software performs with multiple users or real-world conditions. QA engineers use software packages such as WinRunner and SilkTest to assist in crafting test regimens and to automate the testing process.

Can Expertise in Another Field Help?

According to Portnov, individuals with expertise in other fields -- whether music or stocks -- may be able to leverage specialized knowledge to do QA for products in those fields. Foreign language skills are another plus for prospective testers. But these back doors into the IT world aren't as common now as during the boom, says Portnov. Typically, additional software experience is needed to find QA work.

Do I Need to Know Programming?

Programming knowledge may not be necessary for basic black box testing, but it is increasingly required for QA positions. C++, Java or Visual Basic and Web-related technologies such as JavaScript and ASP are commonly mentioned on QA job descriptions. Knowledge of other technologies such as databases or networks may also be required. While QA testers may not be involved in hands-on coding, programming know-how is viewed as an asset in helping testers communicate with software developers.

Am I Right for This?

Not everyone is suited for QA work. As an initial qualification, QA engineers should be "really good computer users" with common sense and a knack for details, says Portnov. "I would say they need to be perfectionists who learned to survive in the real world." Not every bug can be fixed, after all, and the QA testers' job is to assist developers. "You can't dictate to developers what to do."

Communication skills come in handy too, both for explaining problems to developers and for developing test plans and documentation. Perhaps one of the key qualifications is a measure of tact. "The tactful part is also important, because QA is telling others that there's stuff wrong with what they put effort into and are under deadline to get out," says Wendy Desmonde, who has experience in software QA management.

How Do I Learn More?

You can start by reading the QA bible, Testing Computer Software by Cem Kaner, Jack Falk and Hung Quoc Nguyen. For training, check out Software Quality Engineer (SQE), a leader in software testing education. SQE offers courses such as "Web Performance and Security Testing." An assortment of technical training centers, such as Portnov, offer courses in WinRunner, SilkTest and programming languages commonly used by QA engineers. What's more, the major QA vendors offer training and certifications in their products. But for most QA professionals, learning about QA involves making the transition from another field or software development activity.

QA Resources

• Quality Assurance Institute: Offers training in QA.
• StickyMinds.com: An online gathering spot for software managers, testers and QA pros.
• SQAtester.com: Testing resources and career advice.