An Integrated Approach for All Platforms The key to success lies in the compatibility of the game and the console it is played on. That is why SQS Game Testing supports leading relevant platforms such as Sony, Microsoft and Nintendo.

SQS Game Testing guarantees ready availability of consoles on all three platforms. The SQS team is experienced in testing a number of titles on each platform, including AAA titles on Sony and Microsoft platforms (Xbox 360 and PS3), and it reaches a high percentage of first submission passes for titles tested on each platform.

SQS Game Testing Methodologies

Our games testing methodology is well in line with the rigorous standards of the IT Industry, with all processes certified under ISO 9001:2008.

• A well-defined lifecycle of testing including stages for strategy and planning, design, implementation, execution and closure. This process is followed for each game.

• Game Initiation

  Onsite

  Customer QA Manager

  Project Kick Off initiate Pre-Engagement checklist

  Finalized Pre-Engagement Checklist

  Test Strategy and Planning

  Onsite

  SQS-India QA Manager / Lead

  Define scope, timelines, staffing plan, key metrics and communicationplan

  Test Plan detailing, scope, deliverables, timelines, success criteris, risks

  Familiarization

  Offshore

  SQS-India offshore team

  Offshore team ramp up, game understanding, query and issue resolution

  Offshore team ready to roll from day 1

  Testing Phase

  Onsite / Offshore

  SQS-India offshore team

  Preparation of test checklists, coverage matrix, testexecution, defect reporting and regression

  Test Checklists,Defect Reports, Daily and Weekly reports

  Wind Up

  Offshore

  Onsite / Offshore Managers and Leads

  Prepare closure report, joint call with customer

  Closure Report

• SQS Game Testing standard test asset templates for test case writing, bug reporting etc. are customised for each gaming customer.
• A resource pyramid clearly identifies roles and responsibilities.
• The engagement model is well defined.
• Risk management and escalation mechanisms are built into the project management process.
• Communication mechanisms are well established internally as well as with the customer.

Project Delivery Processes

The rigorous project management techniques in use at SQS are based on metrics and structured reviews to track the metrics for the purpose of status checking and continuous improvement.

Metrics are maintained for:

• Effort
• Productivity
• Effectiveness
• Completion
• Customer satisfaction

Authorised Partnerships with OEMs

All major manufacturers – Sony, Nintendo and Microsoft – have extended their support to SQS with authorisations to procure their equipment as well as secure access to their websites.

Offshore Infrastructure

A key component of the SQS Advantage is the offshore model. Offshoring has transformed the IT development landscape and SQS believes that the gaming industry is poised to reap the same benefits by exploiting the maturity that has been achieved in offshore delivery mechanisms.

This offshore project delivery capability is supported by a facility with strict access security, mechanisms for protection of the client's intellectual property, uninterrupted power, large redundant internet bandwidth provided by multiple service providers, game consoles from all OEMs, and video recording set up for bug reporting. All our teams are equipped with the latest generation of gaming PCs. These very high end personal computers are capable of playing modern hardcore video games.

In addition, for most effective use of resources as well as to meet the time-to-market requirements, our team works in two shifts. Our teams are provided with all facilities for transport, food and security. Multiple shift working also allows for more overlap with our American customers.

Our offshore teams follow a strict security policy. Physical security and access control measures are in place, and all facilities are under electronic surveillance 24/7. Security policies such as e-mail and Internet usage restrictions for client IP protection come naturally for all SQS facilities and team members.

Last but not least, near-shore services ensure successful offshore execution. At times it is necessary to have some of the activities such as planning done onsite at the beginning of the execution. Our senior resources work collaboratively with the customer team for a short period onsite for this purpose.

Flexible, Professional Teams

We understand the dynamic nature of the games industry with very narrow windows of opportunity and have successfully ramped the team size up and down as per the customer’s testing requirements. We maintain a core group at all times. Our teams are a mix of hard-core gamers who are rigorously trained in testing and testing professionals who are game enthusiasts.

Resources are selected by means of a well-established recruitment process, and a well thought-out, structured training programme hones skills. This programme is conducted by both internal and external staff. Our established training processes are specifically designed for games testing.