Regression testing? What's that? If it compiles, it is good; if it boots up, it is perfect

Regression testing? What's that? If it compiles, it is good; if it boots up, it is perfect

Linus Torvalds, the creator of the Linux operating system, is known for his no-nonsense approach to software development. His famous quote, "Regression testing? What's that? If it compiles, it is good; if it boots up, it is perfect," reflects his belief in the importance of simplicity and efficiency in the development process.

Regression testing is a crucial aspect of software development that involves retesting a program after changes have been made to ensure that no new bugs or issues have been introduced. It is a time-consuming and often tedious process, but one that is essential for maintaining the stability and reliability of a software system.

Torvalds' dismissive attitude towards regression testing may seem surprising, given the critical role it plays in software development. However, his perspective can be seen as a reflection of his focus on practicality and results. For Torvalds, the ultimate test of a program's quality is whether it compiles and boots up successfully. If these basic criteria are met, then the program is considered to be in good shape.

This approach is in line with Torvalds' emphasis on simplicity and efficiency in software development. He is known for his preference for clean, minimalistic code that is easy to understand and maintain. By prioritizing the ability of a program to compile and boot up over extensive regression testing, Torvalds is emphasizing the importance of getting the basics right before delving into more complex testing procedures.

While Torvalds' approach may work well for the development of the Linux kernel, which is known for its stability and reliability, it may not be suitable for all software projects. Regression testing is an important tool for identifying and fixing bugs in software, and skipping this step can lead to serious issues down the line.