Richard Seidl Academy -- Trainings and certifications in software testing

Learn software testing with practice, not with slides

Here you learn software testing the way it works in real projects. Not memorize, understand. Not click through slides, apply. I bring 25 years of project experience and 8 technical books into every training room.

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25+: Years of training experience
700+: Trained software testers
8: Technical books
DPSQ: 2025: German Prize for Software Quality
Practice: Practical application as the training goal

Academy

What makes this Academy different

No slide performer. No theory marathon. Three qualities that set my trainings apart from others.

Practice before theory

Every learning unit is backed by real examples from actual projects. No made-up scenarios. No artificial exercises that never occur in practice. What you learn here, you can apply in your project tomorrow.

Tailored to your experience level

Whether you are just starting with testing or have been working as a QA engineer for years, I adapt pace, depth, and examples to the group. No one-size-fits-all format that only half fits everyone.

Your topics, your everyday work

There is room in the training to bring your own topics and concrete everyday challenges directly into the session. No rigid program that misses the reality of your work.

Trainings

Training Overview

Courses are available in-person, online, in part as e-learning, and as training on the job. For every level and every team size.

ISTQB CTFL

ISTQB Certified Tester: Foundation Level

The entry point into professional testing certification. In-person, online, or training on the job. Recognized in over 130 countries and in many projects a prerequisite for QA roles.

ISTQB CT-GenAI

ISTQB Certified Tester: Generative AI

One of the first international certifications for AI-assisted testing. Those who already have Foundation Level learn here how to use GenAI tools professionally in the testing process. Prerequisite: ISTQB Foundation Level.

ISTQB Addon

Richard Seidl in mentoring conversation: individual trainings and inhouse courses

ISTQB Addon Practical Tester

Theory is something many have. This is about the skill that makes the difference in projects. Opportunity to work directly on your own topics and everyday challenges.

The Process

How a Training Works

From the first inquiry to a passed exam: a clear, structured process.

Needs Assessment

A short conversation is enough. What should the training achieve? What prior knowledge does the group bring? Is the goal certification, methodological understanding, or both? Free, no obligation, the foundation for everything that follows.

Training

Practice-oriented, methodically grounded, with real examples from projects. I do not just bring content, I bring context. Why does this matter? Where do teams usually get stuck? What can you do differently starting tomorrow?

Exam Preparation and Certification (optional, for ISTQB trainings)

This step is not relevant for every training. For ISTQB trainings, exam preparation is included: exam-relevant topics, practice questions, common mistakes. The official exam then runs through the accredited exam providers.

Follow-up Support

The training does not end after the session. Questions that only arise in practice can be asked later. Those who have booked an inhouse training have a contact person who knows the team and the context.

Participant Feedback

What Participants Say

Feedback from ISTQB trainings, Practical Tester courses, and inhouse training sessions.

"I have never experienced anyone who can bring so much fun and motivation to a subject. Theory is always a dry subject, but thanks to Richie, I had a lot of fun in the seminar and was also able to pass the exam successfully. In addition, the seminar and the way it was conducted motivated me to delve even deeper into software testing."

Martin K. Training participant

"I've rarely met anyone who explains complex testing topics as clearly and thoroughly as Richard (Richie) Seidl. He doesn't just teach theory — Richie listens, asks the right questions, and tailors his content to make it immediately applicable to real-world challenges. His deep experience in the field shines through in every interaction, and his passion for software quality is contagious. If you're looking to improve your team's testing knowledge, skills, or culture, Richie is someone I wholeheartedly recommend."

Wilson Campero Qytera Quality GmbH

"Very lively and genuinely funny. You can tell that Richie is passionate about the subject and brings a lot of real experience to the table."

Stefan A. Training participant

"The sessions are lively and entertaining. Even dry topics come across as genuinely interesting. Every question gets a professional answer that actually makes sense."

Thomas L. Training participant

"Always a pleasure working with Richie. Great input, great training."

Mirko Skodzik IT Products Lead

"I've seen Richie at trainings and talks, and every time it was both informative and genuinely engaging. We keep working together, and it keeps being great. Looking forward to future projects. Thank you, Richie. Warmest recommendation."

Pascal Moll Automation Expert

Frequently Asked Questions About Training

Everything you need to know before booking.

What prior knowledge do I need for a training?

That depends on the specific course. Most trainings are aimed at people with a basic understanding of software development. A short conversation before booking clarifies whether a training fits your current level.

How well does the content carry over into practice?

In recent years, no one who completed the training has failed the exam. That is not a promise, but a track record. More importantly: what sticks after the training are concrete methods and tools that can be applied right away.

Are the trainings available online?

All courses are available in-person, online, as training on the job, and in part as e-learning. What fits best depends on the group, schedule, and goal. A short conversation helps.

How long does a training last?

There is a minimum duration for each course, set by the respective certification body. The specific formats are listed on the individual course pages, ranging from compact in-person days to part-time programs.

Do you offer inhouse trainings for teams?

Yes, and that is often the most effective option. Content, examples, and pace are tailored to your team and your systems. Just get in touch.

In which language are the trainings held?

Courses are always available in German and English. The materials are usually available in both languages as well.

Richard Seidl with coffee, talking about trainings and the academy

Ready for the next step?

Whether you are starting alone or want to train a whole team: a short conversation is enough to find out what fits. Free, no obligation, directly with Richard.

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