Why should regression tests be performed over any other testing?
Tags: regression, regressiontest, regressiontesting, testing
Published: 2022-10-18 06:23:21

Regression testing plays a pivotal role in the software development process. When a software program is changed or modified with new requirements and codes, a software developer uses the regression testing platform as a means to ensure that the changes that have been introduced do not affect the existing functionality and features. Upon that, the current software applications and products are continuously improved by the software developers using the regression testing method. In this article, you will get to know about a few key factors that depict the significance of regression tests.

**What is regression testing?**

It is a testing method where a set of test cases are run by the QA team to ensure that the new features that have been added or new changes introduced in the code do not alter the existing functionalities. A full or partial selection of previously completed test cases can be used for executing [regression testing](https://www.testingxperts.com/blog/regression-testing-strategy). 
The execution of previous test cases is performed more than once to ensure that all existing features and functionalities are working as expected.  The new coding is introduced smoothly without disrupting the old coding in the software application. This testing method also ensures that after software updates have been implemented, there are no bugs or defects. To optimize the performance of testing, [regression testing tools](https://www.testingxperts.com/blog/regression-testing-agile) can be leveraged.

**The following are four factors that determine the significance of regression test over any other testing:**
**1. The existing software can be retested after changes are made to the application:** Additional test executions are provided by regression test to ensure the feasibility of changes made to the program codes. Each case can be retested after a software change or update allowing developers to scrutinize how the new changes will affect the program.
For example, a software program is tested by a developer after new program codes have been initialized. Eventually, the developer finds out that the new features have disabled the existing features. In this scenario, retesting can be performed each time a change or repair takes place in the software update. 

**2. No bugs or defects to be found post implementation of the software updates:** Regression testing can also be used by the developers in quality assurance assessments to verify if there are any adverse issues in the software. 
For example, a video game developer can use regression testing to assess any glitches, bugs or issues after a new gaming code has been introduced in the application. If the program is found with issues or bugs, then the developer can take a step back and make the specific changes before the application is retested to make sure that the specific issues are fixed.

**3. The functionality of new programming code is strategically evaluated:** The incorporation of new codes being implemented into an existing application or program is strategically evaluated by regression testing. 
This is because a software program is tested before new code has been implemented and then the same software program is retested to make sure that the application is able to sustain its functionality, despite introducing new code. Regression testing tools can be leveraged as and when required. Regression testing tools will help in carrying out complex testing activities efficiently and quickly.

**4. Performance issues can be fixed appropriately:** When a software program’s performance is scrutinized by the developer after initiating program modifications or changes then the platform of regression testing can prove to be useful. Regression testing ensures that software applications or programs perform at their peak and thus retain their ideal performance capabilities. 

**Conclusion:** If you are looking forward to implementing regression testing for your specific project, then do get connected with a globally renowned software testing services company that will provide you with a comprehensive testing blueprint that aligns with your project specific requirements.