Difference between Scripted testing and Exploratory testing

Difference between Adhoc Testing and Exploratory Testing

In software testing, both methods have specific purposes and goals, one method has a writing test with a purpose and the other has explored the app with a specific purpose. In this article, we have deeply looked into both testing which is Scripted testing and Exploratory Testing

What is Scripted Software Testing?

In Scripted testing to test specific functionality a tester follows a detailed step-by-step systematic approach. For this testing in advance, the tester has to define the test cases of the functionality along with its instructions to perform it and the expected outcome of the test. Testers follow the testing instructions and steps but in case they may deviate from the script which is very minimal in the case of scripted testing. It ensures that every functionality must be tested and passed. In this scripted testing skilled resources, well-scripted instructions test cases, and verification are required.

Advantages of Scripted Software Testing

Well-suited for automation.
Good at finding functional defects.
Standardized documentation helps in repeatability and tracking.

Disadvantages of Scripted Software Testing

Non-standard testing outcomes are a concern.
Fewer bugs are found.
The testing horizon is limited to script only.

Exploratory Software Testing

Exploratory testing is more toward learning and the experience-based testing approach means it depends more on the responsibility of a tester. So, a tester can apply this exploratory testing to any test technique and at any time development stage. The key aspect of exploratory testing is it depends on the skills and experience of individual testers. As it is adaptable to changes, it is very good for rapidly changing development processes and well suited for the agile development approach.

Advantages Exploratory Software Testing

It analyzes the application in a better way when the application is live.
Testers’ creativity, experience, & skill have a great impact on testing outcomes.
Helps in finding usability & UI issues.
Project owners can get insights that were not possible to get with scripted tests.

Disadvantages Exploratory Software Testing

There is no documentation for reference.
A bias depending on the tester can exist.
Critical bugs can be missed.

Scripted Testing vs. Exploratory Testing

Scripted Testing	Exploratory Testing
The test scripts can be traced back to the original requirements and specifications to demonstrate test coverage.	In this testing no well-documented, clear, and measurable test coverage.
The application is verified against the specifications.	The application is verified and compared against the expectations and understanding of the tester.
The testing can be easily reproduced.	Whereas in exploratory testing, testing can not be reproduced, but the defects can be.
This approach emphasizes prediction and decision-making.	This approach emphasizes adaptability and learning.
At the end of the test cycle bugs are detected.	This approach focuses more on test design.
Testers need to follow the sequence and steps of test cases which are designed in advance.	Testers can alter tests on the fly.
Feedback is slower.	Enables rapid feedback.
In this testing, all test scripts and test cases are designed and reviewed in advance.	As with scripted testing, in this test cases cannot be reviewed in advance.
At the end of the testing cycle, testers can confirm if all the requirements have been met or not.	As there are no clear and documented test cases, there is no way to check and confirm that all the requirements have been met.
Managing test coverage is easier.	Managing test coverage is challenging.
It can be automated.	It cannot be automated.

Conclusion

In conclusion, we learned about the fact related to the Scripted testing and Exploratory testing in which Exploratory testing allows you flexibility and adaptability and another Scripted testing having the structured and systematic test execution.

Frequently Asked Questions on Difference between Scripted testing and Exploratory testing

What is the difference between scripted testing and exploratory testing?

Answer:

Scripted Testing follows predefined test cases with specific steps, while exploratory testing having unscripted ad-hoc testing.

What is exploratory testing and when should it be performed?

Answer:

Exploratory testing maintained in such a situation in which someone wants to learn about the product or application in quick manner and provide a rapid feedback of the same.