Smoke Testing Vs. Regression Testing: What’s Different?

Every software development project has its specific software testing requirements. Based on the project scope and other key parameters, smoke testing or regression testing or both can be implemented. The functionality and stability of the software build are assessed by the smoke testing method. The software performance along with in-depth insights about the software when there are changes being done comes under the ambit of regression testing.

In this article, you will get to know about the differences between smoke testing and regression testing.

What is Smoke testing?

It is a testing method that verifies whether a deployed software build is stable or not. It makes sure that the application’s crucial functionalities are working fine or not. A preliminary check of the software is done using this testing method, after a build and before a release. This testing method is performed whenever the software’s new functionalities are developed and integrated with an existing build that is deployed in the staging/QA environment.

The basic functionalities of the application are designed and executed. This testing method also makes sure that each and every build passes the smoke test so that they can move to further levels of testing. Specific errors can be uncovered using this testing method, which, in turn, saves the effort and time for the test team. It can be performed either manually or automated, depending upon the scope of the project. Major functionalities are checked, and if there are any bugs, then they are fixed by this testing method. It is also known as “Build Verification Testing.”

What is Regression testing?

It is a testing method that ensures the new changes and updates that have been done to the code do not alter or modify the existing functionalities of the software application. Whenever there are new features being added or changes made in the code, regression testing is performed. These code changes could include updating a current feature, fixing bugs and adding new features. Already executed test cases are partially or fully selected and are re-executed to make sure that the existing functionalities are working just fine.

The code needs to be debugged first, and then the bugs need to be identified. The overall functionality and stability of the existing features are verified by this testing method. The code changes may involve malfunctions, defects and dependencies.

Difference between smoke testing and regression testing:

Smoke testing

1. Developers and testers are responsible to perform this testing method
2. Documentation is given due importance and is carried out effectively
3. It is less expensive and can be managed under the budget allotted for software testing
4. Only non-functional verification is carried out
5. It is shallow/non-exhaustive by nature
6. It is a surface level testing, wherein the stability of the system is verified
7. This testing method is always followed by regression testing
8. Less amount of time and manpower is required to perform this testing method
9. It is performed on the software that has been newly developed

Regression testing

1. The QA team is responsible to perform this testing method
2. Documentation does not happen
3. It is an expensive testing method and hence needs to be decided thoughtfully
4. Both functional and non-functional verification is carried out
5. It is in-depth by nature
6. It is a deep level testing, wherein the rationality of the system is verified
7. This testing method is performed throughout the software testing phase
8. More amount of time is required to perform this testing method
9. It is performed to make sure whether the changes made to the code do not alter or modify the existing features/functionalities of the application

Conclusion:

If you are looking forward to implementing smoke testing or regression testing or both for your specific project, then do get connected with a professionally acclaimed regression testing services company that will provide you with tactical testing strategies that are in line with your project specific 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.