A model-based regression test selection technique

Abstract

Throughout their life cycle, software artifacts are modified, and selective regression testing is used to identify the negative impact of modifications. Code-based regression test selection retests test cases sub-set that traverse code modifications. It uses recovered relationships between code parts and test cases that traverse them to locate test cases for retest when code is modified. Broad adoption of model-centric development has created opportunities for software testing. It enabled driving testing processes at higher abstraction levels and demonstrating code to model compliance by means of Model-Based Testing (MBT). Models also evolve, so an important activity of MBT is selective regression testing. It selects test cases for retest based on model modification, so it relies on relationships between model elements and test cases that traverse those elements to locate test cases for retest. We contribute an approach and prototype that during test case generation creates fine-grained traceability relationships between model elements and test cases, which are used to support model-based regression test selection.