What Is Exploratory Software Testing?

Exploratory testing does not require the preparation of test cases in advance. Furthermore, even project documentation is not necessary to run these tests. By interacting with a software system directly, QA engineers learn everything directly rather than relying on knowledge about the system.
Exploratory testing cannot be automated - it must be done manually. The reason is simple: QA specialists cannot develop scripts for functionality they are not familiar with. Exploratory testing involves trying to figure out how the product works from the basics.

When to Run Exploratory Testing?

The results of exploratory tests aren't necessarily different than those of scripted tests. Both approaches are compatible and can even be used to support one another in a project.

Using exploratory testing services, you can learn about the behavior of software. Results can serve as the basis for project documentation. Exploratory testing is also helpful for covering areas where a scenario-based approach isn't effective. For example:
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There is a high level of uncertainty regarding software behavior, and writing test cases time-consuming.

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Project documentation describing requirements does not exist, so it is impossible to create scenarios in the first place.

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There is no time to write test cases, but it is important to check the logic of the software and make sure there are no critical defects.

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A team needs to check for the defects that are complicated or impossible to detect using instructions (gaps in logic, UX bugs, etc.).

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New tests won’t be necessary in the near future, though creating and maintaining them will require a lot of time.

Benefits of Exploratory Testing

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During the early stages of software development, provides quick feedback.
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Inspection of unstable and changing products is effective.
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Examines various aspects of testing, scenarios, and parts of the functionality.
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Tests are thoroughly covered, revealing bugs that are usually overlooked in scripts.
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Tests are possible when documentation is partially or completely unavailable.
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Ideal for testing new features in dynamic iterative development.

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