What is exploratory testing?

1. Definition of exploratory testing

Exploratory testing (ET) is an important testing method in the agile world. as a research tool, it is an important supplement to user story testing and automated regression sets. It is a well-thought-out test method. Without a test script, you can make your test more than a variety of clearly tested scenarios. Explore testing to integrate learning, test design, and test execution to form a testing method.

The biggest feature of the exploratory test is to learn and design the test object while testing the test object, and design a new and better test by using the information about the test object obtained during the test. His typical process is as follows:

Compared with the strict "first design, then execution" in the traditional software testing process, this is quite different.

 

2. Basic Process of exploratory testing

The basic process of exploratory testing includes:

The purpose of identifying a software system;

Identify the functions provided by the software system;

Identifies potential unstable areas of the software system;

Record the messages and questions about the software during the process of exploring the software system;

Create a test outline and use it to perform the test.

Note: The above process is a cyclical process, and there is no strict execution order. You can create a test outline, execute the test, and then study the software system in the test; you can also first explore the various areas of the software system, and then list the key points to be tested.

Exploratory testing emphasizes innovative testing thinking, and many new ideas about testing are constantly emerging during the testing process,

Therefore, it is like a cross, a so-called "exploration cross ).

Exploratory testing emphasizes more divergent thinking in the testing process, which is also the biggest difference from conservative testing.

Conservative Testing Methods emphasize the assumption of perfect test cases. Testers perform tests strictly according to Test Cases, which limits the testing thinking of testers. Testers often lack subjective initiative.

 

It demonstrates a process of divergent thinking. exploratory testing emphasizes divergence, but it does not mean blindly divergence, and it needs to converge back when appropriate.

For example, if it takes a long time to find the answer to the question on the branch path of a test, you can consider dropping the exploration in that area first, because there is another main line test task.

Exploratory testing is especially suitable for testing tasks that do not have clear requirements, or a tester who has just taken over a new test task.

3. Values of exploratory testing

3.1. Exploratory tests can be used to find deep bugs.

Because the exploratory testers are excellent observers, they observe abnormal and unexpected results and think carefully. This status is different from step-by-step execution cases. Therefore, it is easier to find hidden deep problems.

3.2 exploratory testing can enhance the tester's understanding of the tested system.

The exploratory test emphasizes the learning of the tested objects and the Learning in the test process. Based on this, the test is designed. Therefore, it makes it easier for testers to understand the tested system in depth.

4. misunderstandings in exploratory testing

4.1. Do not confuse exploratory and random tests.

The exploratory test is not a "black box" tester who does not sit down and tap in front of the keyboard and has no skills and does not seriously think about it. It is not an Exploratory Test, A qualified exploratory tester should carefully consider and analyze the results and record the results during the exploration test.

4.2. Do not confuse exploratory and regression tests.

Exploratory testing focuses more on thinking and learning and constantly discovers new problems. Version regression testing ensures the original functions and builds a security net for continuous iteration. Repeated functional regression tests should be completed in an automated manner as much as possible, so that there is enough manpower for exploratory testing.

4.3. exploratory testing cannot be used to evaluate software quality.

Although exploratory testing is an effective test method, it does not mean it is a fully covered test method. If you want to assess whether the test is comprehensive, you may need other measures.