What is Regression Testing?
Regression testing. Sounds complicated doesn’t it? Actually, the concept is quite simple…
Wikipedia defines regression testing as:
Regression testing is any type of software testing which seeks to uncover software regressions. Such regressions occur whenever software functionality that was previously working correctly, stops working as intended. Typically regressions occur as an unintended consequence of program changes. Common methods of regression testing include re-running previously run tests and checking whether previously fixed faults have re-emerged.
In other words, regression testing is simply the process of testing all of the relevant actions that can be performed on a given product when it is in a given state, especially those that have been previously tested, to ensure that no new issues have been introduced by any changes.
OK, that didn’t sound simple…
The actions being tested can be either valid, or invalid, but the tests are extremely important in ensuring that no new issues have been introduced since the last change to the product’s software or hardware.
The problem with regression testing, is that it can be extremely tedious and difficult to perform consistently. This is because in order to effectively regression test something, you need to repeat the process that you used when previously testing the same feature EXACTLY.
Therefore, automating regression testing is key to successfully implementing and executing consistent regression tests.
Unfortunately, automating regression tests usually takes a lot of effort. Companies such as National Instruments have spent a lot of time and effort developing complex tools for just this purpose. These tools generally require a programmer, and cost thousands of dollars not only to implement, but also to maintain. Furthermore, regression tests implemented using these tools often take days, if not weeks to program.
Enter the DataDyno.
The DataDyno enables companies to rapidly develop and execute regression tests using only the software that they already have at their disposal, namely a text editor or spreadsheet tool.
So - the next time you want to execute the same test 100 times, or need to verify that your product has not been impacted by a recent change, consider how to best automate your regression testing. You’ll be happy you did!