Validation

Quality Assurance has a number of subdivisions; one of those being Quality Control (sometimes referred to as Software Testing). We have been discussing Verification for the last four weeks. See our blog. Today we start into Validation

We define Validation as being the active part of testing where completed, compiled, and promoted code is being run using data and generating results while Verification is the static part of testing. Note that promoted includes Unit testing on the developer’s workstation. So the promotion may not be a very formal one nor may the compile amount to a lot.

Validation includes All aspects of active testing including the major divisions of White Box and Black Box (along with all the various Grey boxes in between). The fact that the code has to be completed means that it is difficult to launch into Validation before a lot of work has already been done. This is what adds to the cost of completing this type of testing and ensures that any defects that are found tend to be expensive to correct and retest. Hence our emphasis on Verification as being more generally cost effective.

A lot of work has been completed to enable Validation to proceed smoothly and effectively. Many testers start their careers in this area and then move into various aspects of the process as they become more specialized. Some go towards Automation, others move into specialised areas like Performance or Security testing.

While the concept is simple, the identification of the most cost-effective place to use Validation techniques is not always easy. There is no point in completing Validation without some end in view and a positive ROI. Give us a call at 416-927-0960 or visit our website at NVP.ca to find out where you would benefit from the implementation of Validation techniques in your organisation.

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