When I need quick test data of a specific pattern or specific number of characters, I use PerlClip. It can be very useful in generating different kinds of stressful inputs. PerlClip places prepared text into the Windows clipboard so you can paste it wherever you need it.

WebSequenceDiagrams.com allows you to quickly make sequence diagrams using simple text input. It's about the easiest tool I've ever used. Here are some examples of what you can create in seconds.

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Got some data you need to graph? You can always use Excel, but you might also try a tool like verifiable.com. The site currently offers free tools for data visualization. While I don't know how long they will remain free, they are free now. The tool allows you to import data, display it, and re-chart it.

This tip was submitted by Sreekala Kalidindi. Sree uses chronoTrack to keep track of how much time she spends on various tasks while testing. This can be particularly valuable when keeping track of time while executing a test charter.The tool alows you to track many projects simultaneously with multiple labeled timers.

When you think about testability, think about logging. Logging can include error messages, resource utilization, system messages, protocol communications, and data. When you have logs, look at usage patterns and profiles. Or try using something like Log-Watch.