end.

A few months back a close friend of mine became a product manager for a relatively new software company, UTest. Knowing how much time I spend on the computer he suggested I sign up and run a few tests on my spare time.  Tonight I finished my first test, I guess this is my review of the experience.

Having been a member for a while now, UTest sends me emails when new releases come out that fit my portfolio.  Usually I get the email and make a mental note to get back to it, then when I do, the tests are closed.  Now this means two things, one there are avid testers out there ready to test your new software, and two, I need to be quicker on the uptake.  So tonight I got the email and dove right in, hoping to complete it before the test closed.

I had the chance to test a few IM addons.  Personally I don’t like installing chat clients, but for the sake of the trial I did it.  Of course the installation was seamless, and I was ready to test in no time.  At this point I didnt really know if, or how much at all I would get paid for this, because on UTest you really need to just submit a test to understand how it all works.  So I ran through the developers requirements, rebooting several times and documenting my progress.  When I was done I zipped it up with a few screenshots and submitted the test.  This is where I got it, it seems like most tests give you a run through which everyone will get paid for if you document, then you submit separate bugs.  I was able to identify three additional bugs in the software, so after submission, I wait to see if they are approved.

If everything gets approved I will make a whopping $35, if none of the bugs get approved I will get $5 for the run through.

In the end I spent a few hours on this, probably not worth 35$, but at the same time, it was my first test.  I have a feeling I am going to learn alot about the process, and will be able to significantly decrease my time spent on my next test.  Also, software developers pay varies for bugs, so I could get lucky and run a really buggy test before anyone else does.  Either way, it is a good way to make some extra cash on the side, and all you need is your computer.

I am excited to see if my bugs get approved, will update…

UPDATE - After submitting the test and 4 bugs, one bug got approved so I made a total of $15.  The reasons for the bugs not getting approved were all valid, so primarily my fault.  A few days later I uninstalled all the software that was needed, which was a bit of a hassle and I think I got a virus form one, but can’t be sure.

All in all I think Utest is great for software providers, they have an opportunity to get as many testers as they need to find everything possible wrong with their product, for a relatively inexpensive price tag.  For the testers I think it is a great way to make a bit of extra cash if you can commit the time.  You will need to commit to doing multiple tests to increase your efficiency, if you want to make more then pocket change, and possibly do it on a spare computer if you are concerned about installing junk you may never want to use again.