Company
Date Published
Author
Robert Drury
Word count
1341
Language
-
Hacker News points
None

Summary

Exploratory testing is a dynamic approach to software testing that emphasizes the tester's experience and instinct over a predetermined script, allowing for the discovery of unique and unforeseen bugs. Introduced by Cem Kaner in 1987, this method is akin to having a conversation rather than delivering a prepared speech, making it particularly useful when documentation is sparse or user behavior deviates from expected paths. While it offers the advantage of uncovering bugs that scripted tests might miss and is valuable during early development stages, exploratory testing comes with challenges such as difficulty in replicating bugs and uncertainty about test coverage. To maximize its benefits, organizations should employ experienced testers, set clear objectives, and maintain detailed notes. While not suitable for every situation, exploratory testing can significantly enhance understanding and improvement of software products, provided its application is carefully considered and reviewed.