Exploratory Testing
Exploratory Testing is an approach where testers navigate the application without predefined test cases, using their knowledge, experience, and intuition to identify issues.
Goal
The goal of exploratory testing is to uncover unique and critical issues that structured testing might not reveal. It focuses on the tester's creativity and insights to explore the software's functionalities and identify defects or areas of improvement.
Context
Automated tests can catch a subset of all of the potential errors that can occur. But you have to know what you are looking for to write a test for it. Exploratory testing is a way to find the unknown unknowns. In addition it can catch things like user experience problems, unstable dependencies or edge-case scenarios.
Inputs
| Artifact | Description |
|---|---|
| Live Product | The code changes deployed to the production environment. |
Outputs
| Artifact | Description | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Defects Log | A compilation of defects, usability issues, and observations made during exploratory testing. | Provides immediate feedback and insights into application quality. |
Anti-patterns
- Ignoring exploratory testing in favour of solely automated or scripted testing, missing out on the unique insights it provides.
- Conducting exploratory testing without any focus or objective, leading to unproductive testing efforts.
- Failing to document findings and insights, reducing the impact of exploratory testing on future development and testing cycles.
- Not integrating exploratory testing findings into the broader quality assurance and development processes.
This guide underscores the value of exploratory testing in agile development environments, highlighting its flexibility, the depth of insight it offers, and its role in enhancing the software quality and user experience.