In software development, automated regression testing is at the core. Its object drives the software’s quality or reliability. Technology is also advancing, and in line with the same, software programs are getting complex.
Automated regression testing is necessary for this complexity. It entails the application of unique tools and scripts to facilitate the automatic running of test cases. Incredibly high productivity can be realized by automating repetitive, time-consuming tasks.
Welcome to yet another blog where we will give you all the information you need on automation testing. Its significance will be highlighted. Also, we would talk about the normal automation and manual testing differences and many more. So, let’s begin.
What is the importance of automated regression testing?
Automated regression testing is crucial in software development for several reasons:
Speed and efficiency
Automated tests usually take super speed as compared to manual regression tests. Thus, they could iterate through many test cases very quickly and thus save a lot of time.
Accuracy
Though automated tests perform the same steps exactly every time they are executed, this means that any errors regarding flaws or software issues are eliminated through automation regression testing.
Early bug detection
Automated regression testing is useful in bug and issue detection upon their introduction. Therefore, it enables developers to correct defects right away. Consequently, this makes the process of debugging simpler.
Cost-effectiveness
It is significantly more expensive to track and fix bugs in the late stages of development rather than explore this issue early. Additionally, automated regression testing helps to detect bugs early. Therefore, it is cost-saving in the long run.
Confidence in code changes
Knowing that the automated tests are there to quickly identify breakages means developers can be confident in making changes to the codebase. This serves as a motivation that supports regular code updates and improvements.
Regression prevention
These tests serve to ensure the new code changes do not unexpectedly conspire with existing functions. This serves as a safety backup against software regression.
Enhanced productivity
It helps developers to concentrate on more complex and creative projects by automating repetitive testing tasks. This, in turn, increases productivity.
We now move on to understanding the key differences between automation and manual testing.
Manual & automated regression testing: Key differences
Automated testing and manual verification of working capacity are other features involved in the general practices that show whether the software works properly or not.
Therefore, the tests are done by computer programs witnessed in automated testing. It’s more or less having a fast robot that can carry out instructions and test the software quite fast. This is beneficial for large projects containing a ton of things to test. In addition, it is good for retesting.
In contrast, in manual testing, people test the software step by step. The only difference is that, in this case, it’s like how you would use your phone app. It is good for manual testing because testers can examine each part of the software. This is particularly the case during the early stages of software making when it undergoes frequent changes.
Different sorts of problems can be found by testers, for example, how good the software is to use or whether it “looks” right. Sometimes, testers use a mix of both, but these methods are important for testing. It ensures the software is of high quality and without any concerns.
We have a just idea why automated regression testing is required. However, how exactly does it work/work for? Let’s take a peep.
What is the process of automated regression testing?
One thing we can now comfortably say is that automated regression testing plays a critical role in software development in the data-driven world of today. Hence, the following is how regression testing works.
Test creation
Testers create a list of specific actions to check different parts of the program. Moreover, these actions are the tasks the automated tool will perform.
Scriptwriting
Testers or developers write scripts, which are sets of instructions in a programming language. Additionally, these scripts tell the testing tool what steps to follow during the tests.
Test execution
The automated testing tool runs the scripts. As a result, it replicates user interactions with the software. It clicks buttons, enters data, and also checks if the program responds correctly.
Comparison
The tool compares the actual outcomes with expected results. If there’s a mismatch, it signals that there’s a problem in the software.
Issue reporting
When the tool finds issues, it generates reports detailing what went wrong. Testers and developers also analyze these reports to understand the problems.
Bug fixing
Developers fix the errors identified in the reports. They also change the code to resolve the issues found during testing.
Regression testing
Whenever there are changes made to the program, the automated tests run again. This also ensures that new modifications don’t break existing features, maintaining the software’s stability.
To make the process successful, you need the right tools with you, isn’t it? So, what are these tools? We will look at them in the section ahead.
What are the tools used for automated regression testing?
For software testing teams, it is crucial to pick the proper tools for automated regression testing. So, here are some tools commonly used for this purpose:
Selenium
Selenium is a virtual web browser that interacts with web applications. It can click buttons, it can fill out forms, and check that web pages work correctly.
Jenkins
Jenkins assists in automation that leads to testing. The ability to have it run tests automatically while testing any change that may be made to the software. Therefore, it ensures that nothing breaks.
Appium
Appium is also used for mobile application testing like Selenium. The tests may include the use of different gadgets, such as tablets and smartphones.
Cucumber
It is even possible for testers to make tests in simple English by a program referred to as Cucumber. It may also aid those teams who wish to understand the tests but do not understand complicated programming languages.
JUnit
JUnit is one of the popular tools for testing Java-based applications. It also helps developers to design and execute tests for their Java code functionality.
TestNG
TestNG is another testing tool for Java apps. It makes it possible for testers to perform various test kinds, such as unit tests and integration tests, among others.
Postman
Postman is an instrument for testing APIs. It aids in the submission of calls to APIs by testers and ascertaining their response loads.
We don’t just stop there. Here, we present to you some best practices as well that you can maintain to make it more effective. So, let’s see.
How to ensure successful automated regression testing?
Below are some of the top and amazing methods that can help to ensure regression testing is an easy, goal-oriented process for all.
Clear test objectives
To begin with, start off by outlining the requirements and intentions for your test results. Finally, it should be specific on the characteristics or particularity of an automated test case to incorporate.
Error handling
When an error occurs, the test script should provide clear and useful error messages. As a result, it makes it easier to diagnose and fix issues. You can also use service testing automation to be more efficient in your testing process.
Maintain test cases
Organize and keep your test cases current. As the software changes, evaluate and update them frequently. Furthermore, it is crucial to include test cases that are simple to grasp.
Version control
Utilize version control tools, such as Git, to track changes to your test scripts. This is how they make it possible to deal with many test versions and collaborate with others.
Data management
Distinguish test data and test scripts. When you store data in external databases or files, you may make changes to the data without having to alter the test scripts. It improves flexibility and reusability as a result.
To sum up
From our discussion, it is clear that with the help of automated regression testing, you can have perfect software in no time. Start using the powerful method for your software through our blog. In addition, we have learned some practices to maintain on the way. So, do not wait anymore and get the start now!
