The success of any software or application lies in how well the developers maintain it. To ensure efficient software performance, developers keep rolling out various updates regularly. These changes may sometimes interfere with existing software functions, affecting the overall performance and frustrating end users.
To avoid this, developers conduct a performance review with different QA (Quality Assurance) testing procedures after making such changes. One of them is regression testing.
Our guide will cover the following:
What is regression testing
Types of RT
Factors Different RT Strategies Rely On
Regression testing techniques
Ho to perform regression testing
Regression testing project statistics
Regression testing tools
Best RT practices
Examples of RT
Difference between RT and retesting
Let’s start.
What Is Regression Testing
In software testing, regression indicates any unintended change or deviation from the usual performance level following a software update from developers. For instance, any performance issue with software following a bug fix is a regression.
Hence, the regression testing meaning denotes an inclusive testing methodology that helps to reveal regression in software. More specifically, the procedure regression testing helps QA experts identify and rectify any glitches that may arise after bug fixes, performance improvements, or feature upgrades in software prior to its release.
During regression testing, previous tests are re-performed to validate proper functioning of some or all of software features, including the ones were not changed. QA experts do this to ensure that new code does not negatively affect the old one in any way.
Types Of Regression Testing
As evident from the regression testing definition, the procedure cover a lot of ground when it comes to reviewing and testing software. Depending upon the changes made and expected results, developers conduct different of regression testing.
The ultimate goal behind every type is to ensure the released software works efficiently. Therefore, it is important to choose the right type of regression testing before planning the product release.
Different Types of Regression Testing
Let’s go through the types of regression testing.
1) Corrective Testing
Corrective testing is performed by reusing the existing test cases when no changes are made in the product.
2) Selective Testing
When new code is added, then selective testing is performed by using a subset of existing test cases. It is a cost-effective regression testing approach that requires fewer efforts from QA experts.
3)Progressive Testing
Progressive testing is performed when software gets an update. It helps to ensure that existing features are not affected or compromised by the update. To achieve that, QA experts create new test case scenarios.
4) Unit Testing
Unit testing is used to test a specific code unit separately by blocking all interactions and dependencies prior to testing.
5) Complete Testing
When software receives a major update to the existing code, then complete regression testing is required to validate its performance. This approach involves comprehensive retesting to spot any bugs that can arise as a result. Complete regression testing also ensures root code is not afffected.
Factors Different Regression Testing Strategies Rely On
Choosing the right regression testing strategy is key in achieving error-free software performance after an update, so you need to consider a number of factors in the process of creating yours:
Nature of Product. To choose a fitting regression testing type, you need to consider the nature of your product first. A technique that works best to retest a website may not be suitable for testing a mobile application.
Scale of Product. Your choice of the right software testing technique also depends on the complexity of your product. Small projects may only require one testing technique, while more complex software solutions may need multiple testing methods. Everything depends both on the scale of the product and changes made to it.
Testing Method. Depending on the product, QA experts can choose either manual testing, automated testing, or both. While manual regression testing works best during the first phases of software development cycle, it is a time-consuming procedure that requires a lot of resources. Automated testing, on the other hand, simplifies the process, saving time and efforts. QA automation involves the use of dedicated QA tools (we will discuss them further).
Testing Type. Based on the nature of changes and the product, the developers can choose either partial or complete regression testing for a product.
Quality Testing Suite. Choosing a quality testing suite is also highly important. QA experts can use functional and non-functional test cases that cover all the features receiving updates in later stages of software development process.
Regression Testing Techniques
There are three software regression testing techniques. Still, more are emerging from them to cover the needs of different projects.
Regression Testing Techniques
1. Retest-all
This technique involves re-conducting all the test cases to ensure the absence of any bugs that may arise after changes to code have been made. Despite being useful, this technique demands more costs, time, and other resources.
2. Regression Test Selection
Based on changes to code, QA experts select only some test cases from the test suite instead of re-executing all cases.
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This technique divides test cases into reusable (can be used in future regression testing cycles) and obsolete. Despite the name, obsolete test cases may sometimes prove useful in future versions of a product.
3. Test Case Prioritization
This technique prioritizes test cases for re-execution considering the importance of cases, their potential impact on the product, and the frequency of use.
Hybrid
Hybrid regression testing combines test selection and test case prioritization techniques. Here, the selected test cases from a test suite are prioritized for re-execution.
How To Do Regression Testing
Regardless of the technique you choose for regression testing, they all have the same process. Let’s explore it step-by-step.
Performing Regression Testing
Identify the need: After the software development phase is over, testing is carried out to address bug fixes, address performance issues, and other.
Set test requirements: Based on the aim of testing and unit where it is required, QA experts create test conditions for regression testing.
Determine the starting point: With requirements at hand, QA experts choose where to start testing.
Determine endpoint: Planning is key, so QA experts also choose an endpoint for their testing efforts, which depends on requirements and the aim of their testing process.
Regression Testing Statistics on Software Changes
With every new change to the product and every new regression cycle, the number of test cases for future regression cycles changes (see the charts below). The testing process becomes more difficult, time-consuming, and costly. QA experts can deselect the test cases that no more remain useful to smooth out the execution of future regression cycles.
Source: Ranorex
Regression Testing Tools
Automated regression testing is a convenient alternative to manual testing, more so if software is updated frequently. With dedicated regression testing tools, automated testing has become much easier, quicker, and cost-effective.
Here are some of the most-used tools for automated software testing.
Ranorex Studio. A comprehensive automated testing tool for web, desktop, and mobile applications; offers built-in Selenium WebDriver and supports codeless automation with IDE plus tools.
Selenium. An open-source tool for browser-based regression tests; primarily aims at web apps automation.
Micro Focus UFT (Unified Functional Testing). Known as HP Quick Test Professional (QTP), the tool uses VBScript language to help automate functional and regression tests for software apps and environments.
IBM Rational Functional Tester (RFT). The tool provides functional, regression, data-driven, and GUI (Graphical User Interface) testing automation for various applications.
Other Regression Testing Software
SahiPro
TestDrive
TimeShiftX
Serenity
Watir
Test Complete
AdventNet QEngine
TestingWhiz
Silktest
QA Wizard Pro
Regression Testing Best Practices
If you are a QA engineer, it is highly important for you to comply with the best practices for regression testing. Here is a quick overview of what to consider in your testing process.
Save time and resources by relying more on automation testing.
As new test cases are added with each update, always keep the regression pack (a set of regression test cases) up-to-date.
When you test, the main focus should be on software’s core functionality and the most popular features. Also, double-check if the test cases for these are in the regression pack and are up-to-date.
Re-execute successful test cases, that is, the ones that previously spotted bugs successfully.
On top of that, it is better to create a dedicated policy for regression testing that accounts for product requirements and risk factors of a client’s business.
Regression Testing Examples
The process of regression testing is highly elaborate, but also very important. From minor bug fixes to feature upgrades and improvements, every successful software has QA specialists experienced in regression testing behind it.
Difference Between Retesting And Regression Testing
Although the concepts of regression testing and retesting in software development may look similar on paper, they differ in practice.
Regression testing primarily refers to a testing procedure QA experts perform to detect bugs that may appear after code is changed. Regression testing ensures the changes do not affect existing functionality of software. Meanwhile, retesting is when QA experts re-execute tests after bug fixes to ensure the issue is removed.
Conclusion
Maintenance is the longest phase in the software development lifecycle. It starts after software is deployed and continues to the moment it is no more. For the most part, the success of this stage rests upon regression testing, as it ensures continuous and bug-free operation of software and successful updates to its existing functionality. Thanks to many automation tools for regression testing available, QA experts can perform easier, faster, and using less resources. Except that and the level of expertise of a QA expert, successful regression relies on a number of important guidelines, tried-and-true guidelines, and choosing a fitting automation tool for a given project.
The hospitality industry depends a lot on keeping customers happy, but it’s getting harder to attract and keep them. The pandemic hit this industry hard, and now market competition is tougher than ever, with competitive offerings swaying customers. Hospitality businesses are willing to spend big to win customers back. The main questions for many are: how can we stay ahead of the competition, keep our customers, and increase revenue? Keep reading—we’ve got some answers.
Customers today have so many options that getting their attention is a real challenge. It’s not easy to make them choose your business over others. What worked 10 years ago doesn’t work the same way now. Back then, people often chose businesses based on reputation. But with new types of businesses (boutique hotels, craft cafes) popping up or big enterprises getting a new strategy, expectations have changed. The good news is these businesses have shown what works: great customer service. They focus on personalizing the experience, making things easy for customers, offering loyalty programs, and using smart technology.
In this article, we’ll explore these tech strategies and show you how they can help your business grow, and double the revenue. Keep reading to learn more!
The Importance of Customer Satisfaction in the Hospitality Industry
Customer satisfaction, which equals exceptional customer experience, is the backbone of the hospitality industry. It plays a central role in driving revenue and loyalty, as satisfied customers are more likely to return and recommend a hotel, restaurant, or other hospitality business to others. In fact, a study by the Harvard Business Review found that a 1% increase in customer satisfaction can lead to a 0.5% increase in revenue. Moreover, loyal customers are more likely to forgive mistakes and continue doing business with a company, even if they experience a negative encounter.
Let's quickly review the challenges the hospitality industry is facing right now so we can move on to the solutions and our case studies.
Challenges in Hospitality
As businesses navigate the changes in the hospitality industry, there are some key areas where a little improvement can go a long way. From improving customer service to embracing digital transformation and tackling labor shortages, we’ll take a closer look at today’s biggest challenges—and, more importantly, how technology can step in to help. Let’s get started!
Poor Customer Service
Even with strong and high-quality business offerings, poor customer service can drive potential customers and existing customers away. Common issues include:
Long wait times in customer service queues (it is worth remembering that our attention spans 8 seconds, and we live in a very busy world, so quick and efficient responses are more important than ever.)
Poorly trained customer service representatives
Lack of follow-up
Services not being done properly or quickly
Recall issues that require multiple service calls
These problems can frustrate customers. But, at Intellectsoft, we believe that the right approach, combined with technology, can address them effectively.
Digital Transformation Gaps
Approximately 50% of hotels are adopting new technologies, with 43% automating repetitive tasks and 39% upgrading existing systems. Source: workstaff.app
While many businesses are adopting digital solutions, some still struggle with outdated systems and fragmented data. Legacy companies often face chaos when trying to manage their data and create new systems or add features.
Some of the recent examples include clients coming to us to create AI solutions for their services while their data simply was not ready for the advanced tasks. We advise stepping back, communicating with a company objective, and working on keeping the data clean (centralized, structured, and segmented).
When we’re asked to create advanced systems using AI, we always emphasize the importance of organized data. To train AI and build such complicated systems that truly work, you need to start from the very beginning—collecting, storing, centralizing, and organizing it. We encourage our clients to align all departments to work internally on the data so we can create a unified digital system that delivers personalized experiences.
If you’re unsure where to start with your data, we can help. Collecting feedback at various touchpoints along the customer journey is crucial for gaining insights into customer satisfaction and loyalty. Book an IT consultation with us, and our experts will guide you in mapping out a path to get more from your data and build a system that works for your business and team.
Reskilling Staff
The pandemic hit hard in early 2020, especially for the hospitality and travel industries. Even five years later, many businesses are still feeling the impact. Recruiting and retaining skilled staff has become a major challenge post-pandemic.
Reskilling to address technology’s impact is of utmost importance, as about 40% of hotel General Managers place it among their top three workforce challenges.
We strongly believe that adopting the right technology can help. For example, creating an app to train your staff not only saves time but also ensures consistency in learning. AI assistants can also work alongside your team, helping with tasks like recruitment (providing industry insights, crafting emails) and staff training. Imagine having an app dedicated to making your team’s work easier and more efficient!
How Technology Tackles These Challenges and Supports a Customer-Centric Hospitality Culture
Automation, AI, and similar technologies may threaten many. However, the debate about replacing humans isn’t about that—it’s about cooperation and working hand in hand with technology to achieve the highest standards and establish brand-new “golden standards.” Technology is here to assist staff in listening to and collecting customer insights from data.
Let’s review some of our cases to see examples of how technology helps improve customer experience and supports customer service.
Examples of Intellectsoft projects
Property management systems (PMS)
We created a web platform and mobile app that makes managing daily tasks easier and offers extra services to improve residents’ experience. It gives a clear overview of daily activities and helps with managing units and users. Residents can easily book amenities, submit service requests, and report incidents. The platform also includes features for equipment management, key instructions, workflows, and custom permissions. This makes it easier for staff to stay on top of equipment and ensure residents have all the information they need. Plus, tools like announcements, quick votes, a forum, and a community calendar help build a connected and engaged community.
Guest Experience Management App
Our next app helped our client improve their guest experience by replacing printed marketing materials and the need for phone calls with a smart solution. Now, guests can easily order in-room dining, make reservations, and interact with staff— through a simple tablet in their room. The solution includes three parts: a custom in-room tablet with a variety of services, an admin panel for hotel staff and service providers, and a backend system that connects everything together. This approach makes things easier for guests and staff, improving both convenience and efficiency.
Existing Customers First: Building Loyalty with Personalized Touchpoints
Keeping existing customers is not just a strategy; it’s well-known that retaining existing customers is more cost-effective than acquiring new ones. In fact, research shows that it costs five times more to acquire a new customer than to retain an existing one. KPMG named customer retention as the number one revenue driver for the company.
Moreover, a 5% increase in customer retention can lead to a 25% to 95% increase in profits, showing the significant impact loyal customers can have on a business’s bottom line. Retention strategies, like personalized experiences and loyalty programs, can foster long-term relationships and generate recurring revenue, ultimately making them an invaluable part of any business model.
Personalization: How Technology Can Help?
Everyone loves to feel special—it’s part of being human. In hospitality, personalization has evolved from being a luxury to an essential standard. With the right technology to manage your data effectively, you can deliver those “wow” moments that guests won’t forget.
More than half of hotel chains are already using personalization features on their websites, booking platforms, and apps, and another 39% are planning to follow suit soon. They’re tailoring experiences to fit guest preferences perfectly.
Source: Deloitte
How does technology make it happen?
CRM Systems: They help you keep track of guest preferences, booking history, and special requests so you can offer services tailored just for them.
Loyalty Programs: Personalized rewards and offers show your guests that you value them, keeping them coming back for more.
AI Personalization: AI analyzes guest data to predict what they’ll love (from room upgrades to local recommendations) before they even ask.
IoT Gadgets: Smart room features like voice-activated assistants, or temperature controls adjust to your guests’ preferences, making their stay more comfortable.
With tech-powered personalization, you’re building loyalty and maximizing the lifetime value of every customer.
Our Case Study: Smart Hotel Management & Loyalty Program
For one of our clients, we created a smart room solution, complete with a custom IoT system. Guests can use a mobile app to control services, explore amenities, and find resort information-- with a special touch to their suite type. For the client’s entertainment business, we improved their legacy software by running a full IT and code check, fixing issues, and making the system better for customers.
Along with that, we developed a mobile app for the loyalty program, allowing businesses to effortlessly reward their customers and keep them engaged with exclusive benefits.
Our solutions not only helped the client with special experiences for guests; it also improved operations, cutting costs by eliminating inefficiencies. Here's what our experts shared:
"We transitioned away from ESB (Enterprise Service Bus) systems, which previously cost millions, and replaced them with more efficient, self-managed solutions. Similarly, we’ve implemented Device Farms that improved operations and saved resources."
Leveraging Software to Increase Upsell Opportunities
Here are some examples of tech tactics that will help your team sell more and introduce new offerings to existing customers, improve overall efficiency leaving your team grateful:
Dynamic Pricing Algorithms
For finance and marketing teams, manually calculating pricing by segment to introduce your clients can be incredibly challenging. AI-powered tools can strongly optimize these strategies by analyzing your database in detail.
Upselling via Apps
Boosting revenue in the hospitality business often comes down to personalized experiences. Imagine this: a guest books a room, and then your app suggests a spa package or a room upgrade at just the right moment. Later, it nudges them to book a dinner reservation or a guided tour designed to their preferences. With apps offering these personalized recommendations during and after bookings, you’re not just increasing your revenue per guest but also skyrocketing their experience. And you do it in a sustainable way, not by speculating, but by offering what your customers desire based on their previous experiences. It’s a win-win: seamless, helpful, and far from pushy.
Inventory and Resource Management Software
Making every resource count in your hospitality business is key. Inventory and resource management software allows you to effortlessly track everything from linens to room availability, ensuring nothing goes to waste. Having real-time insights to reduce overstock, avoid shortages, and optimize operations assists sustainably keep everything under control and know what you need to focus more. It helps maximize room occupancy by aligning bookings with available resources, ensuring every room and item is used effectively. This approach leads to smarter management, better guest experiences, and a noticeable boost to your bottom line.
Adopting these strategies not only optimizes your operations but also drives business growth. Ready to discover how technology can elevate your goals? We’re here to create a tailored solution for you.
Steps For Implementing a Customer Service Technology Solution
Improving customer service in hospitality doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right technology, you can smooth the path of your operations, speed up response times, and elevate the overall guest experience. Here’s where you can make it happen:
1. Understand Your Needs
Start by identifying the challenges your business is facing. Are you struggling to manage high volumes of inquiries, track customer feedback, or personalize the guest experience? Pinpointing your needs will guide you to the best solutions.
2. Pick the Right Tools
Choose technology that aligns with your goals. Look for solutions that are scalable, easy to use, and integrate effortlessly with your current systems. Options like CRM software, live chat tools, or a guest experience app can make a difference.
3. Equip Your Team
Technology is only as effective as the people using it. Train your staff to make the most of the new tools, so they can deliver exceptional service and resolve issues quickly. Confident, well-equipped staff creates happy, loyal customers.
4. Keep Improving
Once implemented, monitor how well the solution works. Are response times improving? Are customers more satisfied? Regular evaluations will help you fine-tune your approach and keep things running harmoniously.
Some Tech Ideas for Hospitality Businesses
CRM Software: Manage customer interactions and preferences.
Guest Experience Apps: Delight guests with personalized experiences right at their fingertips.
Amenity Management Systems: Simplify operations for everything from room service to facility bookings.
Live Chat Tools: Offer instant support and answers.
Social Media Management Tools: Keep customer interactions engaging and organized.
Integrating these strategies will not only improve your customer service but also deliver unforgettable customer satisfaction, loyalty, and, ultimately, your bottom line. Ready to take the next step? Book a consultation with our experts.
Conclusion
To wrap up everything we've discussed, customer satisfaction and experience are at the heart of hospitality. Retaining customers is more than just keeping them around—building strong, long-lasting relationships and consistently meeting their evolving needs. By understanding their pain points and offering personalized solutions, you can inspire loyalty and drive progress. With the right technology and continuous improvement, your business can stay ahead, let go of what no longer serves you, and keep growing.
At Intellectsoft, with over 17 years of experience in software development, our expert team is ready to help. We create everything from mobile apps to full-fledged portals and systems, leveraging the latest technologies like AI, Cloud, and Machine Learning. With deep experience in the hospitality industry, we’re here to craft personalized solutions that bring your business unforgettable customer experience and retain your valuable clients.
Ready to double your revenue and level up your customer retention strategy with personalized technology? Contact our experts, and we look forward to working hand in hand with you to build or revitalize the perfect app or system for you.
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