Open In App

Difference between Scripted testing and Exploratory testing

Improve
Improve
Like Article
Like
Save
Share
Report

1. Scripted 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 finally 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:

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

Disadvantages:

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

2. Exploratory 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:

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

Disadvantages:

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

Difference between Scripted testing and Exploratory testing :

S.NO.

SCRIPTED TESTING

EXPLORATORY TESTING

01. 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.
02. The application is verified against the specifications. The application is verified and compared against the expectations and understanding of the tester.
03. The testing can be easily reproduced. Whereas in exploratory testing, testing can not be reproduced, but the defects can be.
04. This approach emphasizes prediction and decision-making. This approach emphasizes adaptability and learning.
05. At the end of the test cycle bugs are detected. This approach focuses more on test design.
06. Testers need to follow the sequence and steps of test cases which are designed in advance. Testers can alter tests on the fly.
07. Feedback is slower. Enables rapid feedback.
08. 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.
09. 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.
10. Managing test coverage is easier. Managing test coverage is challenging.
11. It can be automated.  It cannot be automated.

Last Updated : 21 Sep, 2023
Like Article
Save Article
Previous
Next
Share your thoughts in the comments
Similar Reads