Independent Verification & Validation

  • What is IV&V

    Independent Verification and Validation is a process that can identify issues in a project based on written requirements.

  • Methodology

    It is more than just a simple checklist when conducted properly, it helps ensure a project will be successful, delivering what is required.

  • Stakeholders

    It is a way to demonstrate progress to interested parties and it is a way to know for sure when things are really going well.

  • Independent Verification and Validation (IV&V) is a set of Verification and Validation activities performed by a certified entity that is not under the control of the organization that is developing the software.

    Verification: Ensuring the product is built right.

    Validation: Ensuring the right product is built.

    Early detection: IV&V identifies both problems and opportunities for improvement to processes and work products early on, so that corrections and improvements can be made before the consequences become major.

  • When your project large, complex, or mission-critic.

    If the project manager and/or project team working with new technology or new methodologies.

    When your customers expect a high level of accuracy and quality in the final product(s) of your project.

    The project has high visibility and will be scrutinized, or used as a template for future projects.

  • A high-level outline of the process followed includes:

    An in-depth review of the foundational project documents (charter, scope statement, business case justification)

    A review of the project status document, meeting minutes, various planning documents (project plan, requirements, communication plan, risk management information, regulatory compliance plans, test plans and acceptance criteria, etc.)

    Interviews with the project sponsor, stakeholders, and various team members.

  • What are the benefits of performing Independent Validation and Verification (IV&V) on a software project? Though there are many, we routinely cite three primary benefits:

    Improved quality: IV&V improves the quality of project work products and processes. These improvements come not only through early detection of errors, but through proactive prevention of errors.

    Lower cost: By detecting errors, problems, and opportunities for improvement at the earliest possible points, IV&V can significantly reduce the overall cost of an IT project.

  • IV&V Cost Estimates by Project Size

    Under $1 Million: Typically range from 10% to 15% of the total project cost.

    $1 Million to $5 Million: Generally fall within 7% to 12% of the total project cost.

    Over $10 Million: I Usually range from 5% to 10% of the total project cost.

    These estimates provide a general idea of the IV&V costs based on different project sizes. The exact percentage can vary depending on the specifics and complexity of each project.

Statistics

Increased Project Success Rates: Independent Verification and Validation (IV&V) services can improve project success rates by over 30%, ensuring systems meet both functional and performance requirements before deployment.

Cost Savings: Organizations that implement IV&V during the project lifecycle can reduce rework costs by up to 40%, as potential risks and defects are identified and mitigated early.

Enhanced Compliance: 90% of companies that utilize IV&V report improved compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements, reducing legal and operational risks.

Empowering Your Project Success

Whether you’re implementing a sophisticated system or leading an organizational transformation, SkillSphere is your trusted partner in project management excellence. Together, we’ll bring your vision to life and propel your business toward greater success.

Contact us today to learn how our professional Independent Verification and Validation services can make a difference for your organization!