Exploratory Testing Lab
A hands-on exploratory testing lab focused on testing real systems in real contexts, guided by senior test leadership.
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What this lab is
The Exploratory Testing Lab is a practical, hands-on learning experience where participants actively test a system in a realistic environment.
Instead of following predefined scripts, attendees learn how to explore risk, adapt test ideas in real time, and make informed testing decisions based on what they discover.
The focus is on developing strong testing instincts, critical thinking, and confidence when working with incomplete or changing information.
What this lab is not
This is not a slide-driven training course or a certification preparation class.
The lab does not focus on memorising terminology or following step-by-step test cases.
Instead, it is designed to reflect how testing actually happens in real projects — where uncertainty, time pressure, and evolving requirements are the norm.
How the lab works
Real systems
Participants actively test a real application — either a provided sample system or the organisation’s own system — to ensure learning is grounded in real-world complexity.
Guided exploration
Exploration is guided through charters, heuristics, and coaching rather than scripted test cases, allowing testers to adapt their approach as new risks and insights emerge.
Coaching & feedback
Senior test leaders observe, challenge assumptions, and provide live feedback to help participants sharpen their thinking and improve the quality of their testing decisions.
What participants will learn
- Design effective exploratory test charters
- Apply heuristic-based exploration techniques
- Discover risk in poorly documented or changing systems
- Adapt test focus based on findings and feedback
- Communicate testing insights clearly to stakeholders
- Strengthen collaboration between testers and delivery teams
Who this lab is for
Test Managers & Delivery Leads
Leaders who want deeper visibility into testing quality, risk discovery, and how skilled testers think in complex delivery environments.
Test Analysts & QA Professionals
Testers who want to strengthen their exploratory testing skills, improve critical thinking, and gain confidence testing ambiguous or poorly documented systems.
Test Engineers & Automation Engineers
Engineers who want to improve test design thinking, exploratory techniques, and collaboration with analysts and delivery teams.
Delivery options
The Exploratory Testing Lab is designed to be flexible and can be tailored to suit different team sizes, experience levels, and delivery environments.
The course can be delivered as a standalone workshop or extended to support deeper learning and coaching over time.
- Duration: 2–3 days (extendable)
- Format: Instructor-led, workshop-based
- Delivery: On-site or remote
- Context: Sample systems or client systems
- Group size: Small groups for effective coaching
Christchurch-Based, Serving Businesses Nationally
TestPilot is led by Wil Samuels, a senior testing consultant with 20+ years of experience across ERP implementations, SaaS platforms, and enterprise applications. As an ANZTB Associate Board Member, ISTQB Advanced Test Manager, and accredited ISTQB Advanced Test Management training provider, Wil brings proven expertise to every engagement.
Through previous consulting ventures, Wil has delivered test strategies and independent reviews to Infinite Software, Volograms, Engen, Vodacom, MTN, and Woolworths (S.A) across telecommunications, energy, retail, and enterprise software sectors.
Our approach is collaborative, practical, and results-focused.
Why TestPilot Academy
Senior-led delivery
Courses are delivered by senior test leaders with extensive hands-on experience across complex, real-world delivery environments.
Practitioner-focused
Training is grounded in real project experience, not theory alone — focusing on techniques that testers can apply immediately in their work.
Enterprise-ready
Designed for professional teams, with structured facilitation, clear outcomes, and the flexibility required in modern enterprise environments.
Interested in running this lab for your team?
We tailor the Exploratory Testing Lab to your delivery context, team experience, and systems.
Let’s discuss whether this course is the right fit for your organisation.