Verification vs Validation in Software Development: Key Differences

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In software testing, understanding verification vs validation is critical to ensuring quality at every stage of development. Both processes aim to reduce defects, but they focus on different aspects of the software lifecycle.

Verification is about evaluating work products to ensure they meet specified requirements. It answers the question: Are we building the product right? Typical activities include:

• Reviewing requirements and design documents
• Code inspections and walkthroughs
• Static analysis and early testing

Validation , on the other hand, focuses on confirming that the final product meets user needs and expectations. It answers: Are we building the right product? Key activities include:

• Functional testing
• User acceptance testing (UAT)
• System and integration testing

In short, verification ensures the product is developed correctly according to specifications, while validation ensures the product fulfills its intended purpose in real-world use. Both are essential for delivering high-quality software.