What is our primary use case?
Micro Focus ALM Octane is primarily used for test management, specifically to manage all testware in a single location. It also allows linking requirements to tests and tests to defects, ensuring defects are traced back to their original requirements. With ALM Octane, users can manage requirements, allowing for the execution of appropriate tests on the code. If a defect arises, it can be linked back to the test case and requirement for effective resolution.
What is most valuable?
Regarding features, the ability to work on the whole life cycle management, especially to manage the whole software testing life cycle, is the most valuable in Micro Focus ALM Octane.
What needs improvement?
In terms of improvements, it would be beneficial for Micro Focus ALM Octane to have the ability to interface with newer page tools that support DevOps for operations and testing. Currently, Micro Focus ALM Octane is considered an old-world tool in the industry and lacks the perception of being a new-age tool among its customers. Changing this perception is necessary to improve the reputation of ALM Octane in the industry.
For how long have I used the solution?
I have experience with solutions from Micro Focus since my company has had a partnership with Micro Focus for more than ten years.
What do I think about the stability of the solution?
It is a very stable tool. The tool has been in the industry for so many years. Stability-wise, I rate the solution a nine out of ten.
What do I think about the scalability of the solution?
The number of individuals participating in the deployment process varies. Our company provides testing services, employs 34,000 individuals, and many of our clients utilize Micro Focus ALM Octane. This implies that many people use this tool, after considering 34,000 end-users from our company's end who are using Micro Focus ALM Octane.
For deployment, the number of required tech engineers depends on the size of the project. For installation, one or two people may suffice. However, for usage, there will be many others who need to use it.
The tool itself does not require any maintenance. However, it may require customization based on the specific needs of each customer. Workflows may need to be customized to meet the unique requirements of each customer.
It is a scalable solution. Scalability-wise, I rate the solution a nine out of ten.
How are customer service and support?
Since our company uses the tool for a lot of our customers, we get the best and premium support. Also, all our customers get premium support from Micro Focus if they buy the licensing for the tool via our company. I rate the technical support an eight out of ten. I rated it eight since Micro Focus' technical support needs to understand that there could be specific problems with the customer that they need to understand because, at every place, it doesn't work the same way as there may be changes in the workflow or there may be customization requirements. So, it takes technical support time to understand and give a solution to the users.
How would you rate customer service and support?
Which solution did I use previously and why did I switch?
I work with QA Testing Tools from Tricentis and Rally by Broadcom. A competition to Micro Focus ALM Octane would be Jira and Visor's combination.
How was the initial setup?
The solution's initial setup process is reasonably easy. On a scale of one to ten, where one is difficult, and ten is easy, I rate the initial setup an eight out of ten, considering its ease of installation.
There are various options to deploy the tool. In the company that I worked for, we did not use much of the tool. We were only providing this tool for our customers. So, mostly the solution was deployed on-premises even though there were options to deploy the solution on the cloud. The deployment process can be carried out in three to four days or a week maximum.
What's my experience with pricing, setup cost, and licensing?
The pricing of the tool falls in the mid-range zone. When you compare it to other similar tools, I would say it's on the expensive side. The licensing costs for the tool are not straightforward and vary based on several factors, such as the volume of licenses, duration, geography, and customer. The price may become lesser if there is a higher volume or longer duration. Therefore, giving a straightforward one-line answer regarding the price is impossible.
I rate the tool's pricing an eight on a scale from one to ten, where ten is very expensive.
What other advice do I have?
My suggestion for those considering the solution would be to first understand their needs. In some cases, this tool may not make sense for smaller organizations. However, for medium or large organizations, using a tool that can provide a lot of value is definitely worth it. Careful consideration should be given to why they need this tool and what they are looking for, as there are now many options available. In the early days, there were not many options for a tool that could link requirements to testing and execution. Now, there are many combinations and smaller tools available. Depending on the organization's needs, they will have to decide whether this solution can help them.
There is a lot of competition, and there are many lightweight tools that are able to do whatever Micro Focus ALM Octane does. The other reason for my rating of the solution is related to some customers' perception of the tool being outdated. Some customers may expect the tool to have the latest features, such as built-in artificial intelligence capabilities. Overall, I rate the solution a six out of ten.
Which deployment model are you using for this solution?
On-premises
*Disclosure: My company has a business relationship with this vendor other than being a customer: Partner
