Test case selection and prioritization using cuckoos search algorithm

Abstract

Regression Testing is an inevitable and very costly activity that is implemented to ensure the validity of new version of software in a time and resource constrained environment. Execution of entire test suite is not possible so it is necessary to apply techniques like Test Case Selection and Test Case Prioritization for proper selection and schedule of test cases in a specific sequence, fulfilling some chosen criteria. Cuckoo search (CS) algorithm is an optimization algorithm proposed by Yang and Deb [13]. It is inspired by the obligate brood parasitism of some cuckoo species by laying their eggs in the nests of other host birds. Cuckoo Search is very easy to implement as it depends on single parameter only unlike other optimization algorithms. In this paper a test case selection and prioritization algorithm has been proposed using Cuckoo Search. This algorithm selects and prioritizes the test cases based on the number of faults covered in minimum time. The proposed algorithm is an optimistic approach which provides optimum best results in minimum time.