Regression testing refers to a software testing technique that re-runs non-functional and functional tests to ensure that a software application works as intended after any code changes, updates, revisions, improvements, or optimizations. It is an integral part of the software development cycle as it allows developers to detect unexpected faults in an application that may arise due to tweaks, enhancements, or extending of the existing codebase.

Regression testing provides overall stability to the software application by keeping a check on the functionality of the existing features. It is an inevitable step after every new code modification, ensuring the system can sustain and withstand frequent improvements. Useful Link – Best Software Development Companies Technically, code change may cause a change in dependencies, thereby leading to defects or malfunctions in the software. Regression testing is put in place to minimize such risks. It enables professionals to verify whether the previously developed and tested code stays operational when new features or code changes are introduced.

Typically, any software application goes through a series of tests before the changes become a part of the development package. Out of those multiple tests, regression testing constitutes the last step and is responsible for adjudicating the product’s behavior in its entirety.

Moreover, the rapid regression testing process allows product development to receive informative feedback, which can be responded to immediately and allows instant modification of the software code. With regression testing, one can detect bugs in the early stages of the software development cycle (e.g., Agile software development), thereby saving businesses from investing in maintenance efforts in terms of both the time and cost necessary for resolving built-up defects.

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It has been observed that the slightest code modification can cause a domino effect that can alter a product’s primary functionalities. Thus, regression testing plays a key role in investigating the product’s architecture, which is crucial to determine the root cause of both product success and failure.

Let’s consider a simple example of a software company that develops video conferencing platforms. The company must ensure that the first version of the software platform or product includes the basic core features. While releasing its first build, the company undertakes regression testing that comprises 1,000 test cases. Such a practice validates whether the platform has fundamental or freemium conferencing functionalities. The product is ready to roll out into the market after passing the tests successfully.

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As the product’s first version gains popularity in the video conferencing platform space, the demand for additional functionalities grows amongst clients and customers. Thus, business teams understand client and customer sentiments and bring in the requirement for new features that one can release in the premium versions of the software. The product development team follows the instructions and adds new features to the existing product.

On adding new functionality, regression testing again becomes essential. Here, a few hundred (say 100) test cases are run to verify the working of newly-added features. However, it is crucial to consider that the 1,000 test cases that were conducted need to be re-run just to ensure that the freemium version’s critical functions aren’t affected, impacted, or broken due to the addition of newer ones. How to perform regression testing Step I: Identify changes in source code Step II: Prioritize identified changes & product requirements Step III: Select test cases to re-run Step IV: Consider test scenarios to determine test case execution time Step V: Categorize automated & manual test cases Step VI: Prioritize test cases Step VII: Schedule & execute test cases Takeaway Regression testing is vital for improving software product quality and enhancing the end-user experience by ensuring that code changes do not impact the older or existing product functionality. Using appropriate regression testing tools eliminates software defects early in the software deployment cycle.

Source- spiceworks.com