With the ever-evolving digital world around us, much of business today thrives on user feedback in order to improve their products and services.
This demand opens a good avenue for individuals to earn an income through testing apps and websites. If you’re interested in getting paid to test digital products, here’s a comprehensive guide on how to get started.
1. Understand the Role of a Tester
But to get started with the activity, it is essential to first determine what you will be doing. As an app or website tester, you will participate in interacting with digital products, identify the potential issues which may arise while using them, and give detailed feedback based on usability, design, and functionality.
This could also involve being required to test for bugs, evaluate user experience, or even record your screen as you try to navigate the app or site.
2. What You Need to Start
Devices: That would include a smartphone, tablet, and/or computer. Some companies may request you to perform testing with iOS, Android, Windows, or macOS.
Internet connection: You need to have a good and stable enough internet connection to first perform the test and then upload the feedback.
Basic technical skills: It doesn’t need to be that you’re a developer, but it is helpful to possess some degree of technical knowledge. At least, you can know how to navigate multiple applications, download and install the software, and record your voice or screen if necessary.
3. Create a Tester Profile
First and foremost, you need to sign up on testing platforms. During the registration process, most require information regarding your devices, location, and demographic. Be sure to be as precise as possible since most companies are looking to test with particular testers for specific markets or devices.
4. Best Platforms to Join
There are actually several websites that act as mediators between testers and businesses in need of feedback. Here are some of the best platforms where paid testing opportunities can be sought:
a. UserTesting
UserTesting is among the most featured services provided to get paid for testing websites and apps. They require you to sign up and complete a sample test on their platform; then, test invitations are sent based on your profile. You can receive between $10 to $60 for each test, and payments are made via PayPal.
b. TryMyUI
TryMyUI works similarly to UserTesting. You will be tasked to complete usability tests whereby you shall record your thoughts and feedback as you go through a website or application. Testers usually earn about $10 per test, with every test taking 20 to 30 minutes.
c. uTest
uTest is a global testing platform, which offers more diversified opportunities; for example, user experience testing, bug hunt, and functional testing. One can earn up to $650 per month, as experienced testers can gain enough money in just two hours of work.
5. Success Tips
Be specific: The more information you provide in your responses, the more you will get selected for future tests. It has come to light that companies like testers who can articulate their thoughts eloquently and make constructive remarks.
Be Quick: Tests may be timed, and slots get filled up fast. React as soon as you get the invite and complete the test within the deadline.
Be professional: It does not matter whether you test as a freelancer; professionalism matters. Observe the guidelines accompanying every test and do not go for shortcuts. Ensure timely delivery of your test.
Increase Exposure: The more exposure you give yourself, the higher the chance you have of getting more opportunities to test. Sign up with different services and keep updated profiles within them. You could even sign up through a testing community or forum to network and learn about new testing opportunities.
6. How Much Can You Earn?
The amount you will earn depends on the service offering, the complexity of the test, and experience. On average:
- Usability tests pay in the range of $10 to $30 per test.
- Bug testing may pay more if the bugs that you find are big and hard to find.
- While highly specialized testing-for instance, complex software or major enterprise systems-can pay many times more, it can even reach hundreds of dollars per single test. 7. Other Ways to Earn as a Tester
Besides application and website testing, some of the websites give opportunities to earn extra money by inviting friends, answering surveys, or giving suggestions on new feature requests. You might want to try that for supplementing your earnings from testing and new opportunities as well.
8. Scaling Your Earnings
Once you’ve gained a reputation as one of the trusted testers, you can advance with the more specialized components of testing, such as quality assurance testing or beta testing for software. Most of these jobs call for greater levels of professionalism; they carry a greater earning potential and often even possibilities of full-time employment for themselves.
Conclusion
If you enjoy the process of discovery and giving your opinion, you can surely enjoy app and website testing. Join established platforms, be consistent, and give them your value to help turn this into a steady stream of income.
Whether you’re looking for flexibility in a side hustle or how to earn from home, testing applications and websites is one simple yet satisfying thing to do.
Leave a Reply