Regression testing is an indispensable part of the software development process. It helps ensure that any new changes or updates do not affect existing functionality. In this article, we will explore together what regression testing is, the techniques as well as the steps to perform regression testing in a detailed and methodical way.

What is regression testing?

Regression testing is the process of re-testing previously software tested functions. The purpose is to make sure that recent changes do not cause new problems or errors.

When to perform regression testing

Here are some cases where regression testing is needed:

• After fixing errors: After fixing errors in the software, regression testing should be performed to ensure that the error has been corrected and does not affect other functions.
• After code changes: After changing the source code of the software, regression testing should be performed to ensure that the changes do not affect existing functionalities.
• After upgrading the system: After upgrading the operating system or other software, regression testing should be performed to ensure that the software still functions properly.
• Before deploying new software: Before deploying new software to users, regression testing should be performed to ensure that the software operates stably and without errors.

Why is it necessary to perform regression testing?

In software, whether it is bug fixes, code changes or system upgrades, there is a potential risk of affecting inherent functions. Testing helps detect these potential errors early, ensuring the software operates stably and without causing disruption to users.

In addition, regression testing also brings many other benefits such as:

• Save time and costs: Detecting errors early helps minimize the cost of fixing errors and troubleshooting problems in the future.
• Minimize risks: Limit the risk of software errors when used by users, protecting the reputation and image of the business.
• Improve operational efficiency: Ensure the software operates smoothly, improving users’ work efficiency.

Pros and cons of Regression testing

Pros of Regression testing

The main advantage of Regression testing is the ability to ensure application integrity after updates or modifications. This helps detect potential errors that could affect end users early, minimizing risks when deploying the product.

Regression testing provides an overview of the impact of changes, helping development teams better understand potential impacts and manage product quality effectively.

Disadvantages of Regression testing

The downside of Regression testing is that it requires a large amount of resources and time if not automated. The process of performing manual regression testing is not only expensive but also has a high risk of missing errors due to human factors.

Maintaining test suites to accurately reflect product changes is also a challenge. Especially in today’s rapidly and continuously developing environment.

Regression testing techniques

In the field of software development, regression testing is an indispensable part of the product quality assurance process. Here are three popular regression testing techniques that every software developer should know:

Comprehensive Regression Testing

This is a testing method that requires re-running all previously designed test cases to ensure that no problems occur after a change or update in the source code. This method helps detect errors comprehensively but is costly in time and resources.

Selective Regression Testing

Instead of testing all test cases, this technique focuses only on test cases that are directly related to the modified source code. This saves time and effort but comes with the risk of missing errors.

Risk-based Regression Testing

This technique relies on risk assessment to determine which test cases should be prioritized for testing. Test cases with a high chance of appearing errors or having a major impact on the system will be selected for testing first.

Steps to perform regression testing effectively

Here are the steps to perform regression testing effectively:

• Determine the scope of regression testing: First, it is necessary to determine which functionalities and technical requirements need to be retested after a change in the source code.
• Detailed planning: Develop a detailed test plan, including selecting test cases, defining success criteria, and estimating the time required.
• Automate test cases: Test automation saves time and resources, while increasing reusability for future tests.
• Execute testing: Run selected test cases and record the results.
• Analyze results: Evaluate test results to identify problems and errors that arise.
• Continuous improvement: Based on analysis, improve processes and test cases to increase the efficiency of regression testing in the future.
• Reporting and communication: Document all findings and share with the development team for timely corrective action.

See more: GUI – Graphical User Interface Testing

It can be said that applying regression testing techniques intelligently will help save time and resources, while improving product quality. Testing is not just about finding errors but also the process of ensuring that the final product will function consistently and reliably.