Test Scripting Vs Exploratory Testing: Who Wins?

Are you looking for the best way to test your latest software and are not sure whether trial scripts or exploratory testing fit the bill?

Lately, the latter is the beginning of agile development. However, the test script has proven its effectiveness over time.

As a software engineer or test manager, it’s up to you to compare the two and decide.

We have gone ahead and done the work for you. Read on for a quick comparison of these two popular methods to help you decide which one is best for you.

Test Scripting and Exploratory Testing – Basics
The test script is a series of complex instructions that the testers must follow to see if the desired result is achieved.

Provided intensive preparation is carried out, this method should cover all bases when it should uncover software errors. It is so detailed that you can even get a machine to do it for you.

What is an exploratory test used for that? This procedure depends on the experience and intuition of the examiners to eradicate the error for themselves. They are not supplemented with the expected results previously.

In this way, from script testing has the benefit of creating scenarios that may have been ignored by the script writer.

Comparative studies have proved that explorative testing shows more errors faster than scripting.

Blow by Blow Comparison
The following are revealed when considering the most important test factors:

Domain Knowledge

This is important for effective explorative testing. This is not a factor when rigid script testing procedures are used.

Test dependencies are better managed by scripting test. Unsold tests depend on the expertise of the tester to manage them.

High level documentation and important waiting times are required for written tests. Exploratory testing does not require, as long as the domain knowledge is adequate.

When it comes to efficiency, it is time consuming and difficult to make detailed scripts. There is no comparison to the quick nature of the test without a script.

Exploration test

It does not provide clear and measurable coverage. It relies on testers to document their findings. The script test involves the recording of detailed and formal records.

The script test formally verifies the result against the specified specification. The untested test is based on testers’ expectations and domain knowledge.

High-risk areas can be discussed in detail with the test script. There is a possibility this may be overlooked by exploratory tester.

Testing can be reproduced accurately with scripting test. Only defects can be reproduced with a less formal approach.

The winner is?
As the deadline looms and you need to test the key aspects of your software quickly, exploratory testing is the answer. This is a cost effective method if your project is quite easy, just like a simple information site.

It is often a good idea to perform complex tests initially and then follow up on testing without notes. Exploratory testing closely mimics the interaction of the end user with the software. It also allows the intricacies of human interaction.

Who wins? You do You have the option to choose from two proven tactics for each stage of your software development.