Is regression testing the same as end-to-end testing?

Regression testing and end-to-end testing are known to be confusing at times in terms of what they deliver. Both these testing methods play a pivotal role in the software testing process, but, are not the same, when it comes to the specific functionalities they undertake. A simple example to make you understand is by letting you know that regression testing is performed as and when required, but, end-to-end testing needs to be performed at specific intervals for obtaining beneficial results. In this article, you will get to know whether regression testing is the same as end-to-end testing or not.

What is regression testing?

It is a testing method where the system’s or application’s performance is validated after it has gone through the necessary changes. The programming changes or updates are verified to ensure that the existing code functionalities are not compromised or altered. Regression testing is generally performed when new features are being added, a bug has been fixed or when there is a software update or release that is going to happen. Depending upon the testing scenario and other relevant factors, regression testing is performed with a full or partial selection of pre-existing test cases.

Benefits of implementing regression testing:

• The defects are detected right from the early stages of the software development process. 
• Regression testing is a crucial aspect of the CI/CD pipeline because the system’s stability is evaluated during every change. 
• Excessive reworks are avoided through which the chances of post-deployment defects are reduced. 
• The workflow is secured as the business process continuity is properly verified.

What is End-to-end testing?

It is a testing method where a system or application is tested throughout every stage of the software development process, right from the beginning to the end of the development and testing process. The following components of an application are assessed using this testing method: 

• The identification of integration issues and dependencies
• The product’s functionality and performance in a simulated post-release environment.

The end-user behavior is replicated using this testing method. A QA team is generally responsible to carry out this testing process. It can be considered as a business process testing because the performance of the integrated system is measured as a whole rather than taking into consideration each individual application.

Benefits of implementing end-to-end testing:

• The software confidence is enhanced through continuous and comprehensive testing.
•  When the testing processes are extensive, then the user will encounter fewer bugs in the products
• Heterogeneous systems get benefitted because the application’s front-end, back-end and database layers are properly checked

From the above-mentioned information, it is quite clear that regression testing is not the same as end-to-end testing.

In order to provide more clarity, the following are the differences between regression testing and end-to-end testing that will help you in realizing that both these testing methods are not the same.

Regression testing	End-to-end testing
The focus is to ensure that new code changes have not altered the existing functionalities	The focus is on the workflow
The flow of the business process is verified by making sure that the system changes do not interfere with the functionality of the old code	The flow of the business process is verified by identifying issues that are associated with the integrations or subsystem
Testing is carried out in a pre-production environment	The testing is carried out in a real device or simulated production environment through which  the end-user experience is mimicked
Tests are run directly following a release or a programming change	Tests are run continuously throughout the software development process
Already existing test cases are re-executed	Test cases need to be created

 

Conclusion: If you are looking forward to implementing regression testing or end-to-end testing for your specific project, then do get connected with a top-rated software testing services company that will provide you with a proven and structured testing roadmap that is 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.