How does a quality assurance professional in computer science typically collaborate with developers during the software development lifecycle?

Quality Assurance (QA) professionals work closely with developers throughout the software development lifecycle by participating in planning meetings, reviewing requirements, and providing feedback on testability. They design and execute test cases based on specifications, report bugs, and retest fixes, ensuring software reliability and usability. Effective communication and collaboration are key, as QA often bridges the gap between development and product management to ensure a high-quality final product.