Introduction to Formalized Exploratory Testing ....

In normal testing style, the test process is planned well in advance before the actual testing begins. In this, the test design is separated from the test execution phase. Many times the test design and test execution is entrusted on different persons. Exploratory testing should not be confused with the dictionary meaning of ad hoc. Ad hoc testing normally refers to a process of improvised, impromptu bug searching.

Formalized Exploratory Testing

A structured and reasoned approach to exploratory testing is termed as formalized exploratory testing. This approach consists of specific tasks, objectives, and deliverables that make it a systematic process. Using the systematic approach, an outline of what to attack first, its scope, the time required to be spent etc is achieved. The approach might be using simple notes to more descriptive charters to some vague scripts. By using the systematic approach, the testing can be more organized focusing at the goal to be reached. Thus, solving the problem where the pure exploratory testing might drift away from the goal.

The formalized approach used for the exploratory testing can vary depending on the various criteria like resource, time, the knowledge of the application available etc. Depending o this criteria, the approach used to attack the system will also vary. It may involve creating the outlines on the notepad to more sophisticated way by using charters etc.