The Tail Wagging the Dog? How to avoid AI fatigue in QA | NY Meetup

The Test Tribe 3rd New York Meetup – The Tail Wagging the Dog? How to Avoid AI Fatigue in QA

AI in testing is everywhere - but are we applying it with intent, or just following the hype?

Join us at The Test Tribe’s 3rd New York Meetup for a timely and thought-provoking session led by Jackie McDougall, where we’ll cut through the noise around AI in QA and explore how to adopt it with purpose, not pressure.

• Date: 27th August 2025
• Time: 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM EDT
• Venue: 307 West 38th Street, Studio 1401, New York, NY 10018

Session: The Tail Wagging the Dog? How to Avoid AI Fatigue in QA

Session Overview

Over the past decade, AI has rapidly transformed software testing. Organizations are under pressure to release faster, cut costs, and boost test coverage—often leading to rushed AI adoption in QA workflows. But for many teams, that has led to burnout, failed pilots, or simply unclear ROI.

In this session, Jackie McDougall will unpack the reality behind the AI hype in testing. Whether you're struggling with AI fatigue, failed starts, or just not sure how to begin, this session will help you reset and realign your AI strategy with what truly adds value to your QA efforts.

Key Takeaways

• Identify the right entry points for AI in your QA workflow
• Practical advice on where and how to get started
• Understand the true benefits - and limitations - of AI in testing
• Improve your AI adoption strategy without derailing existing processes

This talk is about building sustainable, purposeful AI practices in QA - so you’re not just chasing trends, but choosing tools that truly serve your quality goals.

About the Speaker

Jackie is an experienced QA Director with over 25 years‘ experience in IT and software testing.  Highly regarded not only for her knowledge and deep experience in QA, but also for her ability to bridge the gap between complex technical solutions and clients' understanding of the impact on their business, she has previously presented at the User Conference for Advanced Automated Testing (UCAAT), Scottish Testing Group, EuroSTAR Testing Conferences, Chicago Quality Assurance Association (CQAA) and the Quality Engineering Foundation (QEF), and has published various articles on software testing, business intelligence, test data privacy, and TCOEs. 

She grew up in Glasgow, Scotland, where she attained a Bachelors in English Literature and Language, then a Masters degree in Information Technology. Now living in New Jersey, USA, she enjoys running, rocking out on her drum-kit, cooking, reading and video games. 

Why You Should Attend

• Understand how to escape the trap of AI hype and focus on value
• Learn where AI actually fits into modern QA practices
• Hear from a globally respected QA leader with real-world insights
• Connect with the vibrant New York testing and tech community

About The Test Tribe

​The Test Tribe is the world’s largest software testing community, empowering global testers since 2018. With over 400+ events, 120K+ members across 130+ countries, we foster collaboration, upskilling, and career growth through expert courses, membership programs, cohorts, and community events.

By RSVPing this event, you agree to have read our Terms and Conditions and the Privacy Policy and also agree to be contacted by us and BrowserStack, with whom we are collaborating for this event.

If you’re tired of chasing AI trends and ready to lead AI adoption with clarity, this is the session for you

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