What are verification and validation, and why are they important?
Verification and validation are critical in the software development process. If you can't verify or validate a set of activities to ensure that the software is not implemented correctly, hasn't been built to specification, or is functioning properly, you will surely have problems with your production environment. Microsoft interviewers know how important this is and will ask questions about it to ensure that you practice doing your due diligence to ensure the highest quality software development. When questions come up about verification and validation, it might score you an extra point in the interview if you give the Microsoft interviewer a history of how V&V was formed. It is an application of Six Sigma and its principles. It was used to design products in the manufacturing and support process areas. It's important to remember, if asked, that there are two important aspects of software quality management. Verification answers the question of whether the software is being developed correctly, and validation provides the answer to whether the right software is being produced.
"In my opinion, verification and validation are at the heart of every development project. I take this step very seriously, and it shows in my work. This, of course, includes all the steps and procedures of Validation. Prospective validation is important because it is done to ensure the product is functioning properly. Retrospective validation is done against the written specifications and verifies actual data. Periodic validation is used to repair, relocate, or dismiss data that serves no purpose. Partial validation is mostly used for research but can come in handy for pilot studies. Cross-validation is suitable for estimating the performance of statistical models. Concurrent validation is usually carried out during regular maintenance or service routines in the post-development process."
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