What is the primary benefit of conducting regression testing?

The primary benefit of conducting regression testing is to ensure existing functionality works as intended after changes have been made to the software, such as bug fixes, enhancements, or updates. Regression testing is implemented to confirm that the new code has not adversely affected the existing codebase. This is critical because new developments can unintentionally introduce new bugs or cause previously functioning features to fail. By running regression tests, a development team can maintain software stability and reliability, ensuring that the product continues to meet the needs of users without introducing new issues.

The focus of regression testing is on safeguarding the integrity of the existing functionality rather than on validating new features, identifying user requirements, or assessing project scope, which are objectives linked to other testing and project activities. This makes regression testing a vital component of quality assurance in the software development process.