What are the benefits and drawbacks of exploratory testing?

2 Drawbacks of exploratory testing

However, exploratory testing also has some drawbacks that need to be addressed. One of the main drawbacks is that exploratory testing can be difficult to document, reproduce, and measure. Without proper documentation, exploratory testing can lead to inconsistent results, missed requirements, and unclear test coverage. Without proper reproduction, exploratory testing can make debugging and fixing bugs more challenging. Without proper measurement, exploratory testing can make it hard to evaluate the quality and effectiveness of the testing process. Exploratory testing can also be influenced by human biases, assumptions, and preferences, which can affect the reliability and validity of the tests.

3 Balancing exploratory and scripted testing

To overcome these drawbacks, exploratory testing should not be used in isolation, but in combination with scripted testing. Scripted testing can provide a baseline for test coverage, requirements, and quality standards, while exploratory testing can supplement and enhance the test scope, depth, and feedback. Balancing exploratory and scripted testing can also depend on factors such as the type, size, and complexity of the software, the availability and skill of the testers, the time and budget constraints, and the expectations and needs of the stakeholders. A good product engineering team should be able to use both methods effectively and efficiently, and to adjust the balance according to the situation and context.

4 Tools and techniques for exploratory testing

To support exploratory testing, there are some tools and techniques that can help testers to plan, execute, and report their tests. A test charter is a brief document that defines the scope, objectives, and strategy of an exploratory testing session. It can help testers focus on the most important aspects of the software and communicate their intentions and expectations to others. Test sessions are time-boxed periods of exploratory testing ranging from 15 minutes to 2 hours. They can help testers manage their time, energy, and attention, as well as avoid distractions and interruptions. Test notes are records of exploratory testing activities such as actions, observations, questions, and issues. They can help document findings, reproduce steps, and share insights with others. Lastly, a test report is a summary of the exploratory testing results such as the test charter, notes, coverage, bug reports, and feedback. It can help testers communicate outcomes, recommendations, and learnings to others.

5 Best practices for exploratory testing

Exploratory testing is a valuable and versatile testing method that can help product engineering teams to deliver high-quality software that meets user needs and expectations. To make exploratory testing more effective and efficient, there are some best practices that testers can follow. Before starting, testers should prepare by reviewing the software requirements, design, and documentation, and by gathering relevant information, data, and tools. During exploratory testing, testers should collaborate with other testers, developers, and users through pair testing, peer review, and feedback sessions. After exploratory testing, testers should learn from their experience by analyzing the test results, identifying the gaps and risks, and improving their test skills and knowledge. By balancing exploratory and scripted testing, using appropriate tools and techniques, and following these best practices, testers can make the most of exploratory testing to enhance their product engineering performance while also addressing its challenges and limitations.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?