Definition

exploratory testing

Part of the Web services, SOA glossary:

Exploratory testing is an approach to software assessment that integrates learning about the program with designing the test and conducting the testing processes. The simultaneous process ensures that developers have a more comprehensive understanding of how it should work and create more effective tests and, as a result, be better equipped to find problems.

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End users are sometimes employed as testers in the exploratory model because the approach of a person who will be eventually using the software is naturally geared towards learning about it and testing its functionality. 

Exploratory testing is sometimes referred to as ad hoc testing. However, the ad hoc approach typically eschews test design and documentation. 

 

This was last updated in December 2012
Contributor(s): Ivy Wigmore
Posted by: Margaret Rouse

Related Terms

Definitions

  • ad hoc testing

    - Ad hoc testing is a non-methodical approach to assessing the viability of a product. Commonly used in software development, ad hoc testing is performed without a plan of action, and actions taken a... (WhatIs.com)

Glossaries

  • Web services, SOA

    - Terms related to web services, including definitions about service-oriented architecture (SOA) and words and phrases about web applications that use XML and HTTP.

  • Programming

    - Terms related to software programming, including definitions about programming languages and words and phrases about software design, coding, testing and debugging.

  • Software development

    - Terms related to software development, including definitions about programming and words and phrases about Scrum, Agile and waterfall methodologies.

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