Salesforce is a dynamic cloud-based CRM platform that is always changing thanks to third-party connections, upgrades, and customizations. QA specialists use both functional and regression testing to make sure these modifications don’t interfere with already-existing functionalities. Despite their distinct functions, both are vital for preserving the standard of applications. The main distinctions between functional and regression testing in Salesforce, as well as their objectives, procedures, and appropriate usage times, will be discussed in this article.
What Is Functional Testing in Salesforce?
Functional testing confirms that every Salesforce functionality operates in accordance with business needs. Workflows, user permissions, data generation rules, approval procedures, field validations, and automation such as process builders or flows are all verified by testers.
Functional testing analyzes if a validation rule that prohibits users from saving a record without a required field, verify whether it is applied correctly when it is included in a custom object.
Objectives of Functional Testing:
- Validate business logic and user workflows.
- Confirm that each function performs as expected.
- Test new features and customizations.
- Ensure correct integration with other systems or apps.
Functional testing is typically carried out by testers either manually or via automation tools such as TestComplete, Provar, or Selenium. To make sure Salesforce acts intended in various settings, they concentrate on both positive and negative test scenarios.
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What Is Regression Testing in Salesforce?
Regression testing helps ensure that new modifications, including configuration or code upgrades, don’t interfere with already-existing features. Testers must confirm that prior functionality remains functioning whenever Salesforce administrators or developers add new features, alter Apex classes, update workflows, or install new apps.
Regression testing, for example, guarantees that current assignment rules and associated features continue to operate without problems when you improve a lead assignment rule.
Objectives of Regression Testing:
- Reconfirm stability after changes or releases.
- Detect unintended side effects of enhancements.
- Maintain consistent functionality across updates.
- Safeguard mission-critical business processes.
Automation tools are frequently used by QA teams for regression testing, particularly for repetitive activities. Regression testing becomes essential in Salesforce with each custom deployment or seasonal update.
Differences Between Functional and Regression Testing in Salesforce
| Aspect | Functional Testing | Regression Testing |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Validates new features or changes meet requirements | Verifies that existing features remain unaffected |
| Focus | Business logic, user stories, acceptance criteria | Stability of previously tested modules |
| When to Use | During initial development or customization | After any update, bug fix, or release |
| Test Case Scope | Covers new and specific functionality | Re-runs existing test cases |
| Test Data | Often requires new test data | Reuses existing test data and scripts |
| Approach | Exploratory and scenario-based | Repetitive and automation-friendly |
The Need for Functional And Regression Testing in Salesforce Teams
Functional testing by itself is insufficient to guarantee that modifications will not disrupt the ecosystem of the platform. Regression testing, on the other hand, does not independently test new features. Teams must use both strategies to preserve the overall health of the application.
Assume, for instance, that a new custom object with certain workflows is added. Functional testing first makes sure it operates as intended. Regression testing then verifies that the object doesn’t conflict with already existing workflows or objects.
Regression testing is essential since Salesforce changes its platform three times a year (spring, summer, and winter releases). Before being deployed, any customization, such as Apex triggers or Lightning components, needs to undergo extensive functional validation.
Conclusion
QA teams may use the appropriate strategy at the right time by knowing the difference between functional and regression testing in Salesforce. Regression testing makes sure that these modifications don’t impact current procedures, while functional testing makes sure new features function properly.
Salesforce testers maintain a dependable, high-performing CRM that facilitates seamless business operations and user pleasure by combining the two testing methodologies. Be sure to incorporate both functional and regression testing into your QA approach, whether you’re preparing for a seasonal release or adapting a new workflow.
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