Software Testing Types

Ad-Hoc Testingby

Exforsys.com

www.exforsys.com

Ad Hoc Testing

Ad-Hoc Testing What is Ad-Hoc Testing? Ad-Hoc testing characteristics Does Ad-Hoc Testing fit in the SDLC? When Ad-Hoc testing is inappropriate? Advantages of Ad-Hoc Testing Disadvantages of Ad-Hoc Testing

• What is Ad-Hoc Testing? – Ad-hoc testing is a random unscripted software

testing method.

– It is like a “single-use” test.

– It is sometime mixed up as exploratory, negative and monkey testing.

– However, the word “ad-hoc testing” means that the test is for a particular purpose at hand only.

www.exforsys.com

Ad Hoc Testing

• Ad-hoc Testing Characteristics

– Ad-hoc is performed without a formal test plan, procedures or documentation of results.

– Ad-hoc testing is performed only once unless there are some defects.

– Action plan depends on the kind of defects found and the frequency of occurrence.

www.exforsys.com

Ad Hoc Testing

• Ad-hoc Testing Characteristics (contd.,)

– Ad-hoc is performed based on knowledge and skill about the system being tested.

– Testers are allowed to improvise the test to find additional bugs.

– Ad-hoc testing is a functional test that attempts to “break” open the system’s functionality.

– In exploratory testing, the next test will rely on the result of the just completed test but not so in the case of ad hoc testing which is conducted only once.

www.exforsys.com

Ad Hoc Testing

• Does Ad Hoc Testing fit in the SDLC?

– Ad-hoc testing may not be appropriate in certain stages of the software developmental cycle.

– Ad-hoc testing does not require documentation of results.

– Ad-hoc testing is not appropriate during acceptance and release testing phases.

www.exforsys.com

Ad Hoc Testing

• When ad-hoc testing is inappropriate? Ad-hoc testing is not recommended

• when there is a test failure .

• when documentation is necessary.

• when there is a need for authorizing a re-test.

• When repairs or any other corrective measures are being performed on the product.

www.exforsys.com

Ad Hoc Testing

• Advantages of Ad Hoc Testing – Suitable for conducting random and cost effective

test during early phase of software development.

– Tester can conserve more time.

– Testers are allowed to improve the testing process.

– Ad-hoc test can help further improve the scripted testing method.

www.exforsys.com

Ad Hoc Testing

• Advantages of Ad Hoc Testing (contd.,)

– Requires lesser level of preparation time.

– Ad-hoc testing provides quick result.

– Testers can concentrate on testing as there is no need of documentation and summarize the findings.

– Possibility to define robust preventive measures.

www.exforsys.com

Ad Hoc Testing

• Disadvantages of Ad Hoc Testing

– Lack of documentation

– Lack of availability of sensitive information

– Testers are unaware of previous errors

– No useful reference to guide the testers

www.exforsys.com

Ad Hoc Testing

• Disadvantages of Ad Hoc Testing (contd.,)

– Does not provide information on how the testing team spent its time towards testing activities.

– Requires a qualified and skilled tester to perform additional quality control test resulting in increased operations cost.

– Potential problems could remain undetected.

– Not suitable for final stage testing.

www.exforsys.com

Ad Hoc Testing

Self-Study Online Trainingwww.exforsys.com

www.exforsys.com

Ad Hoc Testing