Regression testing identifies defects or bugs that happen because of changes made in the code or while integrating a new functionality to the existing code. This type of testing can prevent surprises in features and functionality during product delivery. To successfully run regression testing there are set of challenges the software tester should not ignore. Here are some points software testers should remember before executing regression testing.

Challenges of Regression Testing

Large Scope and Coverage 

There are challenges faced while creating the suite. Functionality scenarios coverage and the testing suite should be up to date in the QA environment.

Reviewing the regression suite between the build releases in the QA instance or test environment helps make sure important scenarios are covered. If any functionality or feature is missing or not covered, they should be added to the suit. If there are any defects found those shouldn't be included in the suite until they are fixed. While reviewing, we will be able to list out functionalities to be included and excluded in the test suite and possible scenarios.

Regression Suite Visibility

Regression suite visibility issues include:

• Product requirements/flows and code changes
• Environment-related issues such as an outdated or unstable environment
• Test scenario coding practices, false positives, element locators, etc.
• Lack of communication between team members

With changing market requirements, the products needs to be updated. While performing regression testing, the software testers should incorporate test suites, test scenarios and test cases. It is advised for the testing teams to use dashboards for basic test reporting.

The dashboard style doesn't necessarily need to be in line with the latest market. A simple form can track and document the status of the functionalities, features and tests covered in the regression suites. 

Execution Takes Time

Regression testing uses one of the largest test automation suites and must be executed whenever there is a new build release, functionality/feature or when bugs are fixed. It's important that the test suite is stable and the testing environment is healthy.

We can reduce the risk of test failures and wasted time by making sure the testing suite is stable. By prioritizing the tests efficiently according to functionalities, the test cycles can be more productive and will reduce the chances of defects going unnoticed. We must ensure that the test suite adds value to the application. The test environment or instance must be well maintained, teams must diligently select the appropriate test automation framework which will help cover the most functionalities in less time.

Regression Test Suite Cost

To ensure quality of the application or product, regression suites must be executed multiple times, and this can be costly. Reducing the costs is a challenge and should be top priority for the team. The team should make sure tests are run with the maximum scenarios in a test suite and that maximum defects are found and fixed in fewer regression suite cycles.

Conclusion

Regression testing should be a top priority to ensure all functionalities and features work properly. We must make sure that the regression suites are stable and of high value. It is always important to prioritize the value and maintenance of the regression test suite. Regression suites must be able to fulfil its objectives any time they run. This is an important responsibility of the team to make sure the suite is ready to go at any time.

About Author

Vinod Kumar works as a QA Lead at V-Soft Digital. He has 13 years of experience with more than 8 years of experience in various Performance and Other Testing projects in the Quality domain in the IT industry. He has worked on various platforms and was able to develop innovative solutions to optimize performance and deliver products with high-quality. He is a certified professional in Lean Six Sigma Black Belt (LSSBB) and Scrum Master (CSM). In addition to these, he is certified in Modern Project Management - Quality Risk, Procurement and Project Closure, BA from Udemy, RPA Business Analyst from UI Path and Six Sigma in Health Care.