Architecture-Based Regression Testing of Evolving Systems

Researchers have begun to use formal architectural speci cation as a basis on which to develop testing techniques. These techniques promise to improve the development process by uncovering defects early. However, few of these techniques consider the ways in which software architecture can be used to facilitate (or misused to hinder) e ective regression testing and analysis of evolving systems. Despite e orts to reduce its cost, regression testing remains one of the most expensive activities performed during a software system's lifetime { studies indicate that it can consume up to one-third of the cost of the software. Because of the expense of regression testing and analysis of evolving software, e orts to improve the testing process should focus on techniques and tools to reduce the cost of these activities { the emerging formal notations for software architecture speci cation can provide a basis on which e ective regression testing and analysis techniques can be developed. This paper considers some potential areas for research in using software architecture speci cation for e ective regression testing and analysis. Because of the high proportion of a software system's lifetime that is spent in regression testing and analysis, the use of software architecture for regression testing activities has the potential for a bigger impact on the cost of software than those techniques that focus only on development testing.