As we look ahead to 2025, the role of Quality Management will undergo significant transformations, driven by emerging technologies and growing demands for innovation and security. The rapid evolution of AI, automation, and data-centric systems will redefine how quality is measured and maintained across industries. Here’s a closer look at how QM will adapt to these changes and the challenges that lie ahead by Head of QM and Lead SDET at Godel Dzmitry Mikhailouski.

How might the role of Quality Management (QM) evolve next year?

The role of Quality Management is set to transform in the coming year, driven by advancing technology and increasing demands for innovation and reliability. Here’s how I see it evolving:

Increased Automation

Automation will handle repetitive tasks like regression testing and error detection, freeing engineers to focus on strategic areas such as optimizing test strategies and improving system reliability. Tools like AI-driven test scripts have already started speeding up our processes significantly.

AI Assurance

Ensuring AI models are accurate, fair, and transparent will be a priority. This includes validating AI decisions and minimizing bias. Establishing clear standards for testing AI early can prevent complications as systems scale.

Data Curation

As AI relies heavily on quality data, curating and maintaining datasets will become a vital responsibility. Ensuring data accuracy and establishing feedback loops will support continuous improvement.

Security Focus

With increasing cyber threats, security testing will be crucial at every stage of development. Incorporating automated penetration testing, for instance, can identify vulnerabilities earlier and more effectively.

Quality Architects

The shift toward becoming “quality architects” means designing frameworks for testing AI-powered systems and deciding when traditional methods are more effective. This strategic role helps maintain a balance between innovation and stability.

User Experience (UX) Engineering

With users demanding intuitive and enjoyable experiences, analyzing customer feedback and improving usability will become key priorities. Collaboration with UX teams ensures that products are not only functional but also user-friendly.

Exploratory and Risk-Based Testing

Automation can handle predictable tests, but exploratory and risk-based testing will remain critical for identifying edge cases and scenarios automation may miss.

Collaboration

Working closely with product managers, marketing, and customer success teams ensures that products meet technical requirements while also aligning with customer needs and business goals.

What will be the biggest barriers in the tech industry in 2025?

The tech industry will face several major challenges in 2025. As AI systems become more integrated, they’ll also become bigger targets for cyberattacks. Staying ahead will require smarter defences, including AI-driven threat detection and proactive security testing.

Also, rapid technological advancements will lead to new regulations. Staying compliant without slowing innovation will be a major challenge, especially in areas like AI and quantum computing. Quality management frameworks will need to adapt to ensure compliance while maintaining agile development and continuous improvement.

The demand for skilled AI, cybersecurity, and data science professionals will outstrip supply. Organizations must invest in training programs and retain talent by offering growth opportunities. Integrating quality-focused training and ensuring consistency in skill development will be key to maintaining high standards across teams.

What skills do you expect to be in high demand for Quality Managers and engineers in 2025, especially in the context of emerging technologies?

The future of testing is a blend of deep technical expertise and strategic thinking. AI-driven testing, cloud automation, and security-first approaches will be essential. Engineers will need strong API testing skills, proficiency in scripting, and the ability to integrate seamlessly into DevOps pipelines. But beyond technical skills, adaptability and problem-solving will be the real differentiators – because emerging technologies demand not just knowledge, but the ability to think critically and act fast.

How can organisations strike the right balance between maintaining quality standards and staying agile enough to innovate rapidly?

The most effective teams embed quality into development rather than treating it as a final checkpoint. Automation should be intelligent – focusing on high-risk areas instead of creating unnecessary overhead. Agile teams that take ownership of quality prioritize real-time feedback, leverage AI for predictive insights, and use risk-based testing to optimize coverage. It’s not about testing less; it’s about testing smarter. The real challenge is fostering a culture where speed and quality work are in sync – when teams see quality as an enabler of innovation rather than a blocker, true transformation happens.

What are your tech predictions for 2025?

Looking ahead to 2025, I see several key trends shaping the tech industry. AI will become more integrated into everyday life, from healthcare to smart homes. Governance frameworks will be essential to ensure AI is ethical and reliable.

  • Quantum computing will revolutionize industries like cryptography and materials science. Developing new ways to test and validate these systems will be a priority.
  • Cyber defences will rely more on AI to predict and respond to threats. Staying ahead will require constant innovation in detection and prevention systems.
  • Advances in nuclear fusion could transform global energy systems. Ensuring these technologies are safe and scalable will be critical.
  • Factories will use AI to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance product quality. Ensuring these systems maintain high standards will be vital.
  • Companies will need to demonstrate measurable progress in reducing their environmental impact. Verifying these claims will become standard practice.
  • Combining AI, robotics, and other technologies, hyper-automation will reshape industries. Testing these interconnected systems for reliability and accuracy will be crucial.

As the tech landscape evolves, QM will remain a driving force behind innovation, ensuring that every product meets the highest quality, trust, and sustainability standards.