Independent Verification and Validation template

Use the Independent Verification and Validation Plan template to ensure third party contractors can objectively review, analysis, and test your software and/or hardware.

Use the template to prepare and respond to the IV&V assessment activities and project reviews. Identify stakeholders/roles responsible for each process, estimated timeframe for completing the steps, and the planned approach.

Verification and Validation (V&V) is a systems engineering discipline that helps you ensure the quality of your software. Validation checks that the software meets the user’s needs, while Verification checks that the system is well-engineered.

Independent Verification and Validation Plan

What is an Independent Verification and Validation Plan?

An Independent Verification and Validation Plan is a formal review, analysis, and testing of software and/or hardware performed by a third party. The third party will verify that the requirements have been correctly defined, validate that the system has implemented the technical and functional requirements, and make recommendations based on their investigations.

What is the difference between V&V and IV&V?

The V&V is performed by the software development company. For example, by its QA, Development, and Support teams.
The IV&V performed by an independent organization. Its aim is to be objective and highlight gaps, errors, or anomalies which may have been overlooked.

Why is IV&V important?

As the IV&V identifies high-risk areas early in a project, it helps mitigate risks and prepare contingencies.

Product Details

• Independent Verification and Validation template
• Work Breakdown Structure spreadsheet

Page Count

• MS Word document – 21 pages
• MS Excel – 1 spreadsheet

File Format

• Microsoft Word (.docx) and Microsoft Excel (.xlsx) format.
• Images: All images in the templates are copyright free.

Table of Contents

1 Introduction
1.1 Purpose of this document
1.2 Objectives
1.3 System Identification
1.4 Scope
1.5 Risks
1.6 Key Stakeholders
1.7 Relationship to Other Plans

2 Management Approach
2.1 Master Schedule
2.2 Tasks
2.3 Organization
2.4 Roles and Responsibilities
2.5 Tools, Techniques, and Methodology

3 Verification and Validation Plans
3.1 Management
3.2 Concept Phase
3.3 Requirements Phase
3.4 Design Phase
3.5 Implementation Phase
3.6 Test Phase
3.7 Installation Phase
3.8 Operation and Maintenance Phase

4 Reporting

5 Administrative Procedures
5.1 Anomaly Reporting and Resolution
5.2 Task Iteration Policy
5.3 Deviation Policy
5.4 Control Procedures
5.5 Standards, Practices, and Conventions

6 Appendix A: Independent Verification & Validation Plan Approval

7 Appendix B: Reference Documents

8 Appendix C: Glossary of Terms