Smoke Testing vs Regression Testing: Guide for QA

 


Regression testing and smoke testing play key roles in ensuring the reliability and functionality of software applications. Though both these testing methods are focused on testing the functionality of an application, but the purpose of testing differs between both these testing methods. To better understand both these valuable testing methods, it is better to know and understand the differences between regression testing and smoke testing.

What is smoke testing?

It is a testing method that validates the stability of software build and crucial functionality. It is conducted in the initial stages of the software development process and makes sure that the core features are working as expected. Wasting resources on buildings with flaws is prevented by the team. It determines whether the software can be passed on to further levels of testing based on its stability.

The core features of a software build are focused and worked upon, thereby making sure the main workflows are not broken as such. Only the important functionalities are covered, without working on the intricate details. Either QA engineers or developers are tasked to carry out the smoke testing process. This high-level process is performed by them before the software is handed over for more in-depth testing.

 

What is Regression testing?

It is a testing method that makes sure that the changes made to the build have not affected the existing functionality negatively. When the development team tweaks or modifies parts of the code, it may have unexpected consequences. Regression testing makes sure that the recent alterations or modifications do not impact on the existing functionalities negatively.

Those bugs are identified that may have been introduced in the source code. This testing method makes sure that despite making changes in the code or updating certain aspects of it, the software product or application works as expected. Both existing and new features are validated, thereby making sure that it is functioning appropriately across the entire software.

 

The right context to implement smoke testing:

1. When code changes are being integrated: Whenever there is a change in code made by the developer, a smoke test is conducted. The new build goes through the smoke testing process, wherein all the core functionalities are verified.

2. The new build: When a new build is deployed by the development team, smoke tests are executed. These tests occur once a new build is created for the project and before moving it to the production phase. It is implemented as part of the early verification process.

 3. Before major testing cycles: Smoke testing is conducted on every new build as a preliminary test phase. If the test fails, it is handed back to the development team.

 The right context to implement regression testing:

1. Before major releases: Regression testing is conducted during the last system integration before a major release has been rolled out. It makes sure that the existing features are not impacted by the new update.

 2. After new features have been introduced: A regression test is required when the software is modified, enhancements are made and new features are added. A risk of compatibility with an existing build will be there after adding or modifying new features.

 3. After patches or bug fixes: Once defects or bugs are fixed by developers in the build, regression testing is performed. The source code is debugged by developers once the software fails due to any errors. Once the bugs are identified, appropriate changes can be made.

 Conclusion: If you are looking forward to implementing smoke or regression testing for your specific software development project, then do get connected with a leading software testing services company that will provide you a tactical testing solution in line with your project requirements.

About the author: I am a technical content writer focused on writing technology specific articles. I strive to provide well-researched information on the leading market savvy technologies.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Which testing is done first, smoke or sanity?

Smoke Testing: Its Techniques and Advantages

Smoke Testing - Types, Process, Tools & More!