Exploratory testing is a type of software testing that is often performed by testers with the goal of learning about the software, finding defects, and identifying areas that may require additional testing. In exploratory testing, the tester is given some high-level information about the software under test and is then expected to use their creativity and testing skills to explore the software and find issues that may not have been identified through more formal testing approaches.
Exploratory testing is typically less structured than other forms of testing and allows the tester to use their intuition and experience to identify issues. It involves dynamically designing and executing tests, and the tests may change as the tester learns more about the software. Exploratory testing can be performed in different phases of the software development lifecycle, from early stages to post-release.
One of the main advantages of exploratory testing is that it can be very effective at finding defects that may have been missed through other testing approaches. Additionally, exploratory testing can help uncover issues that may not have been thought of during the planning and design phases of testing. However, it can also be more time-consuming and less predictable than other testing methods, and it may be difficult to reproduce the same test scenarios consistently.
ACTIVE and PASSIVE EXPLORATORY TESTING
In active exploratory testing, the tester actively interacts with the software and performs tests to achieve specific testing goals. The tester uses their experience, creativity, and testing skills to design and execute tests, and may actively try to find defects or issues in the software. Active exploratory testing is more structured and requires more planning and preparation than passive exploratory testing.
In contrast, in passive exploratory testing, the tester observes the software as it runs and does not actively interact with it. The tester simply observes the software’s behavior and performance and may note any unexpected behaviors or issues that arise. Passive exploratory testing is less structured than active exploratory testing and does not require as much planning or preparation.
Both active and passive exploratory testing can be useful in identifying defects or issues in the software, but they are suited to different testing situations. Active exploratory testing is better suited to situations where specific testing goals need to be achieved, while passive exploratory testing is better suited to situations where the tester wants to observe the software’s behavior and performance without actively interacting with it.