Ad-Hoc testing is a kind where the tester performs the test without any prior planning. In fact, there is no adequate time for properly designing test scenarios with the desired results. In most of the cases, the tests are carried out without any documentation describing the basic specifications and requirements. While executing such tests the tester can easily adopt this approach to tests any part of the system and find out the hidden bugs, if any. Usually, the tester applies skills, intuition, experience and knowledge for the software testing. As far as applying this process is concerned, it is usually carried out under demanding project schedules. There are times when it is impossible to perform extensive testing. Under such circumstances, ad-hoc testings are adopted in place of conservative processes.
However, before indulging in its practice, it is always advisable to follow certain guidelines that will help the tester to acquire more this type of testing.
Get familiar with the software
Knowledge about the architecture of the software is essential to ensure success in ad-hoc testing. Hence, the trick is to get accustomed with the way the software functions.
Test properly
Merely going through the testing procedure is not enough. The best part of ad-hoc testing is that it allows you to test all the software parts without facing any kind of restrictions. The testers can utilize this factor in their favor. They can perform the tests on various levels of the applications. Moreover, it is equally important to focus on the areas that have more risks. Although these are performed without any planned process, an expert tester will always consider the risk analysis first. Hence, it is advisable to begin with the fundamental risk identification and analysis. Once the tester comprehends the necessary areas, he can move onto the bigger folds.
Compare with a tester who lacks knowledge
An adept tester has the desired opportunity to rely completely on his knowledge and ability. This allows him to think about the specific and related testing situations. Such a scope will enable him to look for more number of software bugs during the process.
Experience matters
If your tester has considerable experience, he will be able to find the bugs as compared to an inexperienced tester.
Never mind the numbers of tests
This is another factor that will have an impact on your success or failure. The number of tests decides how many bugs you come across. Mostly, when there is a tight schedule to maintain during project completion, several rounds of testings cannot be possible. But if you consider the best practices, the more tests you perform, the better will be the visibility of the bugs.
Benefits of Ad-hoc Testing
The ability to learn is the final word on ad-hoc testing. The capability of the tester to learn about the software is critical along with the ability to find out the bugs. While discussing about the best practices, the question might arise as to why is it necessary to opt for ad-hoc testing. Well, there are several advantages associated with this testing process. One of the major reasons is that it can be used as an additional testing layer during the regular testing processes. Secondly, this kind of testing offers quicker results and it can considerably improve the aim that could not be developed during the conservative testing methods.
Improvisation is an essential factor in these kinds of tests. It enables the testers to focus on the software instead of the official documentation. In this process, the tester will learn more about the software – its integrations, architecture and flow. It is considered one of the most efficient ways in which software testing is carried out under demanding timelines.