What are the most effective techniques for regression testing?

1 Risk-based testing

Risk-based testing is a technique that prioritizes the test cases based on the likelihood and impact of defects in different parts of the software. By focusing on the high-risk areas first, product engineers can reduce the scope and duration of regression testing, while still covering the most critical aspects of the software. To apply risk-based testing, product engineers need to identify and rank the risk factors, such as the complexity, frequency, or dependency of the software components, and then select and execute the test cases accordingly.

2 Test automation

Test automation is a technique that uses software tools or scripts to perform repetitive or tedious tasks in regression testing, such as setting up the test environment, running the test cases, or verifying the results. By automating the regression testing, product engineers can save time, effort, and resources, as well as improve the accuracy, consistency, and reliability of the test outcomes. To apply test automation, product engineers need to choose the appropriate tools or frameworks, design and maintain the test scripts, and integrate them with the development and deployment processes.

3 Test suite optimization

Test suite optimization is a technique that aims to reduce the size and complexity of the test suite, while still maintaining its effectiveness and coverage. By optimizing the test suite, product engineers can eliminate redundant, obsolete, or irrelevant test cases, and focus on the ones that are most relevant and valuable for the regression testing. To apply test suite optimization, product engineers need to use various methods, such as test case selection, prioritization, or minimization, based on criteria such as code coverage, fault detection, or requirement traceability.

5 Test-driven development

Test-driven development is a technique that follows a cycle of writing, running, and refactoring the test cases before writing the actual code for the software functionality. By following test-driven development, product engineers can ensure that the code meets the specifications and requirements, as well as avoid introducing defects or errors during the development process. To apply test-driven development, product engineers need to follow a simple workflow of writing a failing test case, writing the minimum code to pass the test case, and then improving the code quality and design.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?