What is exploratory testing?

Exploratory testing is a style of testing where test design and execution happen simultaneously. The tester studies the application, learns from it, and uses their knowledge to create new test cases "on the fly".

Main characteristics:

• Simultaneous test design and execution: Test cases are not formally predefined.
• Learning: Tester constantly learns by interacting with the system.
• Tester experience: Heavily depends on tester's skills, knowledge, and creativity.
• Informal process: Less documented than scripted testing.
• Focus on exploration: The goal is to understand system behavior and find non-obvious defects.

Typical techniques:

• Tours: Focus on specific areas or functions (e.g., Anti-Money Laundering Tour).
• Heuristic-Based Testing: Use rules and principles to find defects.
• Pair Testing: Two testers work together.

Advantages:

• Finds defects hard to detect with scripted testing.
• Helps deeply understand the system.
• Useful in uncertainty or limited documentation.
• Can be faster for certain scenarios.

Disadvantages:

• Depends on tester skills.
• Harder to reproduce found defects without clear steps.
• Reporting may be less standardized.

Used as a supplement to scripted testing, especially for new features, critical areas, or when formal documentation is limited.