Abstract: A method and apparatus for generating a covering set of test cases from a directed graph is provided. The directed graph includes nodes and edges connecting the nodes, and a test case is a path through the directed graph. To generate a partial set of test cases, a set of selected test cases is received. These test cases can be manually selected or they can be a maintained test case set. The edges or nodes on the directed graph (or requirements linked to nodes or edges) that are covered by the selected test cases are marked with an identifier. Test cases are then generated from the directed graph according to a coverage algorithm. Marked graph elements may, but need not, be included in the generated test cases. The resulting partial test case set together with the selected test cases satisfy the coverage criterion.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for generating and maintaining a regression test case set directly and automatically from requirements models. A user operating the invention generates a representation of a system which captures temporal, functional, life cycle or other relationships between requirements. These relationships specify the circumstances under which a requirement applies and places the requirement in the context of other requirements. Selection techniques applied to the representation generates test cases. A regression test case set is a set of test cases that are used by the user to verify functionality in view of modifications or additions to the system. As the features of the system are adjusted over the life cycle of the system, the method of the invention automatically provides a regression test case set that affords optical coverage with respect to all features of the system. Any regression test cases that fail are automatically detected and graphically displayed.