How does regression testing help in producing quality software?

Unintended issues or defects can be identified by the regression testing method whenever code changes, updates or modifications take place. Whenever modifications or updates are done, a regression test ensures that the previously working functionalities are functioning as expected.

Integration issues and code conflicts are being properly detected by the regression testing method. In this article, you will learn how regression testing plays a crucial role in producing quality software.

What is regression testing?

It is a testing method that ensures the existing functionalities of a software product or application are not affected or altered by introducing new changes or updates in the code. It plays an important role in Quality Assurance (QA) process, hence, regression testing in QA proves to be beneficial in improvising the testing activities.

When a new functionality in the application has been incorporated or a current error has been properly fixed by the developer, then the tester will initiate the regression test process.

There will be scenarios wherein when one code module is upgraded or changed, then chances are another module can also get affected as these two modules might be dependent on each other.

Following are the ways in which regression testing helps in producing quality software:

1. Regression defects are identified: Any unintended issues or defects that may have been introduced when software has been modified are ably detected by regression tests. The functionality of the upgrade is examined by regression test. Bugs in the newly pushed code are also ascertained.

2. Stability is ensured: The regression test ensures that the changes or updates introduced in the code do not modify the existing functionalities of the application. Any unexpected issues or behavior that may impact user experience are detected, so that the stability of the software is not compromised.

3. Risk mitigation: The changes that have been made may contain potential risks and hence are identified and mitigated by regression testing in the QA process. Performance degradation, system failures or unexpected issues that could impact user satisfaction or business functions are prevented.

4. Leveraging integration: There is a rarity of applications functioning in isolation in today's tech environment. They often interact with software and systems. New features or updates that have been added is verified by the regression test method to make sure that these updates or features are aligned within the existing system and also with external interfaces without disruptions being caused.

5. The scalability factor: As more features are being added, while the application is being developed, regression testing in QA becomes a key activity because it makes sure the enhancements that have been made do not compromise or alter the system's functionality. It also ensures that increased loads are handled by the system and can easily scale without any issues.

Following are a few key regression testing strategies that can be leveraged for producing quality software:

1. Test case prioritization: The entire test suite cannot be executed for each regression test cycle due to time constraints. Hence, the test cases need to be prioritized based on the impact of the changes. Precedence should be given to high-priority test cases to make sure that the most crucial functionalities are thoroughly tested.

2. Reusable test cases: An effective way to streamline regression testing is to create a set of reusable test cases. The core software functionalities are covered by these test cases and can be repeatedly executed whenever changes are being made. Effort and time are saved by reusing test cases, which, in turn, allows testers to test the modified parts in a focused manner.

3. Regression tests are automated: When a huge number of test cases need to be executed repeatedly then automated regression testing platform is leveraged. Frequent testing during the software development process is facilitated, chances of human errors are reduced and faster execution is allowed by the automated regression test platform.

Conclusion: If you are looking forward to implementing regression testing for your specific organization, then do get connected with a globally renowned software testing services company that will provide professional consultation and support on developing a crystal-clear DevOps testing strategy that is in line with your project specific requirements.

About the author: I am a technical content writer focused on writing technology specific articles. I strive to provide well-researched information on the leading market savvy technologies.