Which term refers to the evaluation of software artifacts, like requirements or design, without executing them?

Static analysis is the correct answer because it involves examining software artifacts, such as requirements, design documents, or source code, without executing the actual program. This method focuses on identifying potential defects, ensuring compliance with coding standards, and verifying that the design aligns with the intended requirements. Tools and techniques used for static analysis can provide insights into potential issues early in the development process, leading to more efficient debugging and cost savings downstream.

Dynamic testing, in contrast, involves executing the code to validate its behavior and identify defects during runtime. Exploratory testing is an approach that emphasizes the tester's experience and intuition to explore the application, while regression testing is focused on verifying that new changes have not adversely affected existing functionalities. These latter methods require the software to be running, which differentiates them from static analysis.