TMAP or ISTQB: which suits you?

You work in software development, you've done something with testing before (or you'll have it on your plate soon), and suddenly you hear two mysterious abbreviations all around you: TMAP and ISTQB. You Google. You sigh. You close three tabs of jargon. Because: what's the difference anyway? And more importantly - which one suits you? We explain it to you. Clear, recognizable and without test-hocus-pocus, so that you choose the training that suits you - and do not get lost in jargon or choice stress. Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)

schedule 25 maart 2025
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What is ISTQB?

ISTQB stands for International Software Testing Qualifications Board, but don't worry - you don't have to set up an international testing tribunal to follow it. This certification is globally recognized, tightly structured and focuses on test methods, testing techniques and everything you need to do structured testing. Think: definitions, models, test phases. Nice and clear.

ISTQB is ideal for testers who:

  1. want to build a career path with clear levels (Foundation > Advanced > Expert);
  2. like structured methods;
  3. work in international environments where ISTQB is often the standard.

Structure:

  1. Foundation Level - The basics of testing, for starters or re-entrants.
  2. Advanced Level - For test analysts, test coordinators and test managers with experience.
  3. Expert Level - For those who want to take their testing skills to professional top level.

What is TMAP?

TMAP was coined in the Netherlands and has since become a global methodology for quality engineering in agile and DevOps environments. It stands for Test Management Approach, but that hardly covers it. In fact, TMAP goes beyond testing: it is about built-in quality throughout the entire development process.

For whom? 

TMAP is for teams and professionals who:

  • work in agile or DevOps environments;
  • want to contribute to quality from the first idea to the final release;
  • understand that testing is not a separate phase, but a shared responsibility.

Popular certifications:

  • TMAP: Quality for Cross-functional Teams - Working together on quality, in every sprint.
  • TMAP: Quality & Test Engineering - Deeper into applying quality measures and testing techniques.

The differences between ISTQB and TMAP

Let's face it: ISTQB and TMAP are both top notch, but they do differ. It's not a battle between right or wrong, but rather, “What glasses do you put on to look at quality?”

Focus and scope

ISTQB zooms in on test methods and techniques. Think test cases, test designs, test types - very structured and logically built.

TMAP looks more broadly. It tackles quality in the whole chain: from requirements to deployment, and from team dynamics to test strategy. TMAP basically says, “Testing is not just one person's job, it belongs to all of us.”

Certification structure

ISTQB works with a neat little staircase:

  1. Foundation
  2. Advanced
  3. Expert

Each level builds on the previous one. Useful if you want a career path that you can tick off neatly.

TMAP does not have fixed levels, but different role-based training. For example, especially for cross-functional teams. More thematic, less linear.

Practical application

ISTQB is especially strong in theory: you learn how to build, analyze and execute tests. Perfect if you are looking for structure or want to understand testing principles in detail.

TMAP is the toolbox for those in the middle of a sprint. It helps you collaborate with developers, choose a testing strategy, set quality goals. More hands-on, so to speak.

Why both certifications are valuable

Here comes the punchline: you don't have to choose.

  • ISTQB gives you the testing foundation: you know how it's done, how to work in a structured way, and you can show off your knowledge to recruiters in New York, Amsterdam or Singapore.
  • TMAP teaches you how to join a modern, agile team with that knowledge. How to ensure quality while the software flies around your ears. And how to become a team player as a tester - not just an end-user.

In short: ISTQB = the theory, TMAP = the practice. Together they make you a test hero with strategic insight and feet in the clay.

Which one suits you?

“Do I necessarily have to do both then?” No way. But it does help if you know where you are now and where you want to go.

Are you new to testing, or do you like to work with clear frameworks? Then start with ISTQB Foundation.

Do you work in a DevOps team, or want to learn how to combine testing with collaboration and continuous quality? Then TMAP: Quality for Cross-functional Teams is for you.

And honestly? Once you have both certifications under your belt, you'll just be firmly in your testing chair - ready to make things better. Wherever you work.

Conclusion: choose what suits you 

ISTQB or TMAP? Don't think in either, think in both. Because the more you know about testing techniques and quality processes, the better you can contribute to reliable software. Still in doubt? No problem. At Testlearning you can follow a free preview of our TMAP e-learning. Just browse, click, try. Just like good tests: explore before you decide. Because testing isn't just for today. You test for the future.

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