Experience Report Live: Exploratory Testing a Product with James Lyndsay

Summary

Whether you are just starting out in Exploratory testing or looking to try out something new. We have the challenge for you.

Introduction

Exploratory testing is a fantastic way to get to learn how a product truly works. But it requires practise to develop our exploratory testing skills. In this activity we’ll get an opportunity to both practise exploratory testing and identify how we can identify ideas for testing.

Purpose

This activity is designed to get you doing exploratory testing and reflecting on your skills and ability to come up with test ideas.

Activity

For this challenge we would like you to:

1. Either create an exploratory testing charter or select one from this challenge.
2. Using no testing aids, carry out an exploratory testing session for no longer than 30 minutes
3. Once you’ve completed your first testing session. Run a second exploratory testing session, this time google for different testing heuristics and mnemonics to expand your testing. Test for no longer than 30 minutes
4. Once you’ve finished your testing. Sit down and compare what testing you did without the use of testing aids, and what testing you did with the use of testing aids. Write down what heuristics and mnemonics you want to keep using in the future.

Some tips:

1. Pick a note taking approach that works for you. For example mind-mapping, sketch noting or good old pen and paper

James Lyndsay

he/his

Test Strategist

Black Box puzzles / TestLab / London Exploratory Workshop in Testing. 2015 European Tester Excellence award. Teaches and talks in public. Mentors in private. Independent at work.