What is our primary use case?
We used ALM, specifically ALM Octane Test Manager. We utilized all the modules when we purchased a full license. However, after they were sold, we realized that we could explore other tools. We decided to update and now use Jira, which has its own developers and tools. We are happy with this change as it doesn't require any payment.
How has it helped my organization?
It was good when we used it, and Jira is also providing similar features now. Jira integrates with automation tools and is open-source. I was an admin for ALM and used it to monitor everything.
However, I currently don't have the time to use or update it and am not actively using it anymore.
What is most valuable?
We were able to manage test cases effectively when we were using it. It was accepted and worked well for us.
The requirement management feature was beneficial because we could pull results and perform a fixed excursion. We could also manage automation environments, combining three things into one place.
It was a good tool when it was released, but there have been many changes since then. It's good that everything is moving to the cloud now. The benefit is that manual automation and performance can be handled in one place. This allows users to access all analysis results in one location.
For modern releases, all views and graphical representations can be accessed in one place, showing the number of values, knowledge, and passes. Every tool should have these enhancements.
There are a number of blogs and sites available, but learning and using ALM requires effort due to the amount of information. It is relatively easy to use, especially if you have IT knowledge. However, nowadays, it can be difficult to find the time to learn new tools.
What needs improvement?
The reporting feature could be improved. It would be better if they simplified some things.
It requires writing queries in the setup. If we could click a button and instantly get analytics and everything in one shot, it would be easier to use.
It needs improvement in the reporting process. While graphical representations and other features exist, it requires custom code to be written. If it could be simplified with a single button to generate reports, like in TestLab, it would be easier.
A new module specifically for reporting would be helpful. Instead of integrating it into TestLab, it should be a separate module, making it easier for users.
For how long have I used the solution?
I have over eleven years of experience with Quality Center, but I am not currently using it.
It's a good solution that we used for updating the automation system manual dash cases and pulling results. However, we have now switched to Jira.
I worked with OpenText ALM / Quality Center in 2023, starting at the beginning of the year.
What do I think about the stability of the solution?
I would rate the stability a seven out of ten.
What do I think about the scalability of the solution?
I would rate the scalability an eight out of ten.
Enterprise businesses are the best fit for ALM.
How are customer service and support?
The customer service and support are okay.
How would you rate customer service and support?
Which solution did I use previously and why did I switch?
It was previously owned by HP and other companies before being acquired by OpenText. The business continues to use the tool despite these changes. However, the market has not yet fully adapted, and the tool does not meet the requirements of resource sites.
We bought it directly from the vendor, similar to how we handle AWS. We were a customer using these products. However, after they started selling off their products one by one, we decided to switch to open-source solutions for cost savings and switched to Jira. Now, we have our own developers and tools, and everything has changed.
How was the initial setup?
The initial setup is easy, but we need to manage the columns and fields that we want to use.
OpenText provides templates, which makes the installation and setup process pretty easy.
We installed it on a server before COVID-19, about four years ago. Nowadays, we are not using it anymore.
Deployment time: The installation process depends on the project length. A small project might take one or two hours, while a larger project with containers, automation scripts, and data could take longer. A typical installation for a normal project could be done in about four hours.
What's my experience with pricing, setup cost, and licensing?
The pricing is expensive nowadays. The market is competitive, and there are many tools available, yet the price remains high. The price should be lower to benefit customers, especially considering the availability of similar tools.
So, the price is something they need to improve, make it less expensive.
What other advice do I have?
I would recommend it to other people. Overall, it's a good solution. I would give it a nine out of ten. OpenText ALM can make improvements, but it is still a good solution.