From Parental Stress Testing to Software Stress Testing

Introduction

Being a working mum is hard but rewarding! Solidsoft Reply has been very supportive and flexible, allowing me to not only continue doing the job I enjoy but also to progress in the company while staying on top of my parental responsibilities. 

Career at Solidsoft Reply  

When I was approached by my Line Manager to write a blog on my experiences as a working mum and the so-called ‘work life balance’, I was a little unsure. I thought that no one would be interested in my daily juggling act because of the perception that a parent’s life can be monotonous and dull. But then I thought why not? I should share my experience so that someone else in a similar position would know they’re not alone, or someone who is soon to become a parent may be reassured that it’s all going to be okay! It’s also a reminder that parents as employees have a lot to offer in addition to their familial duties. I hope this blog resonates in some way with other working parents (especially mums!) – sharing my ups and downs, daily struggles, challenges and achievements.  

I have been working for Solidsoft since May 2017 in software development as a software tester. I started off as a non-functional junior tester in the EMVS Hub team. Since then, I have worked on various projects within the company before becoming the Test Lead on an integration project working alongside resources from another Reply company. 

Daily routine 

My daily routine as a Software Tester starts with attending and participating in internal and external client meetings. I create test-related work products, such as test scenarios, test data, documenting, and providing training.   

My parallel routine as a mum begins in the early morning with a strong cup of coffee, and then the process begins with getting the children up, dressed, fed and ready for school and pre-school, respectively.  Then I experience an oasis of peace where I can get on with my work. 

Roles and responsibilities 

As a software tester, my work is also very varied and entails coordinating meetings, implementing code, writing documentation, creating test related activities, analysing and researching software tools and software practice. The work I do at Solidsoft isn’t just my job, it’s my passion. It defines who I am, not only as a professional but also as an individual, beyond being a mum. I also consider work as my “ME” time where I can just be myself without having to be Mum. I have been fortunate enough to work with projects that make a positive difference to society, such as VeriLite and eCDR-Pro. All these products that I am involved in require attention to detail, and time and effort to guarantee quality because these are critical products.  

My other role as a mum entail looking after my kids and their needs daily which means cooking meals, contributing actively to my kids’ school activities, picking-up, dropping-off during the school term and many more (the list is almost endless).  

Personal and professional development 

Working at Solidsoft has definitely enhanced my personal and professional development portfolio. I have been able to keep myself updated by taking online instructor-led courses, including online Microsoft courses and courses at Pluralsight. I have managed to earn certifications alongside work and every year I have allocated study leave to prepare for self-study which is extremely useful. 

Working with people with different skillsets has definitely taught me a lot about myself and my skill set - where I need to improve, my strengths and challenges. I have been involved in a variety of testing work within Solidsoft and worked with Valorem Reply on systems integration testing involving MS Azure. 

Work vs personal life balance  

So how do I balance my work and my home / personal life? The answer is simple – I take each day as it comes with a pinch of salt as the saying goes. Sticking to a routine, having discipline to manage quality time, the knowledge of what I am capable of delivering each day and managing my expectations both at home and work – all these factors have helped me to achieve this balance!  There have been times when I have been overwhelmed by work especially as a new parent when I returned from maternity leave. But overall, with the support of my manager and my colleagues, my transition back to work was a smooth and positive experience.  

Bottom line 

Working at Solidsoft Reply is very rewarding, both professionally and on a personal level. The company has always made me feel at ease. I love the working vibe and atmosphere at Solidsoft Reply. I have been fortunate to work with a good group of people who are positive and professional. They have recognised my work, welcomed my suggestions and supported me in every step of the way after I returned from my maternity leave. I strive to reflect that investment through my work ethic, passion, and sheer determination. I believe in the projects the company has undertaken. I am proud to be a part of Solidsoft Reply.  

Managing a balance between work and home is hard but with my passion for my work, support from family and the company, it is definitely achievable. 

Solidsoft Reply is a leading technology company creating award-winning solutions utilising the Microsoft Azure cloud platform. As a globally acclaimed Microsoft AI Cloud Solutions Partner, we specialise in GS1 traceability systems worldwide, crucially ensuring the authenticity, legality, and safety of our customers’ products and services. Serving non-profits, NGOs, healthcare, and the pharmaceutical industries, we deliver technology for positive social impact. Your products, safe in our hands.