Introduction to Regression Testing

Software testing known as “regression testing” used to ensure that current software or code changes did not negatively impact already-existing functionalities. It ensures that modifications implemented to the application code must not damage the current application functioning. Such code modifications might, for instance, introduce new functionalities, correct issues, or update an existing functionality.

In short, in order to verify that the app’s capabilities are operating as intended, testing entails running previously passed test scenarios again with the updated version. Additionally, It is a set of checks rather than a unique test that is run each time something new functionality is added.

There are various advantages of regression testing. It guarantees whether any code modification has negative effects on other functionalities or not. It ensures that problems that have resolved should not come back. Also, it acts as a risk-reduction tactic when testing. Thus, it is simple to learn, comprehend, and analyze. On the other hand, there are some points to keep in mind. It takes time and we need patience. Each time a code line changes, you have to perform the testing. You need to write difficult test cases to perform the test. Therefore, you must consider both perspectives before choosing.

• Pick the data that need retesting. The test script you choose to run relies on the section in which the code has changed, so you won’t run the full test set. The test data are split into two categories: reuse test cases and obsolete test cases. While identifying the reusable test case, choose the cases for checking an app’s functioning and characteristics that visitors may see that have recently changed the code base.
• Calculate how long it will take to run the chosen tests. The QA team’s preparation of tests, the evaluation of all tests, the generation of testing data, and others are a few aspects that influence execution time.
• The QA team may choose which test scripts to automate depending on the observations of the testing process. You may reuse the same script over and over again with automation testing cases, which are quicker than manually testing. Depending on the need, you can choose between automated and manual testing.

There are 4 testing methods performed most commonly. Choice of Regression Testing, Prioritizing test cases, Retesting all and Hybrid. The hybrid approach is the most successful of all these. This really is due to the fact that you run the necessary test instances dependent on whether you intend to initially do regression test selection or test case prioritisation, rather than picking all at once. As a result, it saves a great amount of time and energy.

Here are the best testing tools for the professional choice for regression testing.

• Testsigma – Regression testing works well using Testsigma, one of the best automation test tools available. This tool’s creation of scriptless tests in simple English is one of its benefits. The ability to create original functions and provide requirements for regression test suites is another feature of https://testsigma.com/ .
• Watir – Ruby-based Watir is an open-source tool. This application enables testers to create test cases that are simple to read and comprehend. Watir also offers a simple and adaptable UI.
• Selenium – You may be familiar with Selenium, a popular software for testing for cross-platform or web regression testing. It offers automated test cases using datasets and is ideal for in-depth QA on a big scale.
• Apache JMeter – For monitoring the effectiveness of test cases, Apache developed Apache JMeter. JMeter’s primary capabilities include the ability to execute load and efficiency tests, measure service reliability, and offer an end-user testing platform.
• TimeShiftX – TimeShiftX, one of the most advanced regression automation testing tools available, will be popular with the QA team. The USP of this solution provides firms with a competitive edge by reducing test cycles and resource use. Additionally, it enables businesses to deliver the software rapidly, which is why TimeShiftX is very well-liked by testers.

There are various challenges we can face during testing. The test suite grows pretty extensive when regression tests we perform repeatedly. The whole kit may not run due to time and funds restrictions. It might be difficult to determine how frequently regression tests should run, such as after each modification, each build update, or after a large number of problem fixes. Getting maximal test coverage while minimising the test suite is still difficult.

Regression testing focuses on test scenarios, both positive and negative. Automated test scenarios are possible. We prioritise it less than retesting and is thus carried out concurrently. It determines if a change has rendered the current features unusable. Furthermore, it checks for faulty flaws once a modification has been made. It is possible to acquire test cases before the testing process begins.

On the other hand, retesting focuses primarily on test scenarios that failed. No test case automation is possible. We do it to fix particular flaws. It is impossible to get test cases before the testing procedure has begun. It determines if a repair results in a unique problem in the software. Retesting is carried out first since it has a greater priority than regression testing. It only looks for errors that were present at the beginning of the testing procedure.

In short, retesting refers to running tests once more after fixing the code base or if a test case fails during the final implementation. Whereas, regression testing refers to making sure that an update or modification is not impacting the functioning of the current application.