How can you document and report verification and validation results like a pro?

1 Why document and report V&V results?

Documenting and reporting V&V results is not just a bureaucratic task, but a valuable way to communicate your findings, demonstrate your credibility, and support your recommendations. It can provide evidence of the system's quality, reliability, and safety, as well as identify and address any issues, risks, or gaps in the system. Additionally, it can share feedback and lessons learned with the project team and other stakeholders while facilitating traceability and auditability of the system. This documentation and reporting will also enable reuse and improvement of the system in the future.

2 What to document and report in V&V?

The content and format of your V&V documentation and report can differ depending on the scope, complexity, and context of your project. Generally, it should include the purpose and objectives of the V&V activities, the V&V plan, methods, criteria, and standards used, the V&V results with data, analysis, and evaluation, the V&V conclusions regarding compliance or non-compliance with the requirements, and the V&V recommendations for corrective actions, enhancements, or changes to the system or the requirements.

3 How to document and report V&V results?

Documenting and reporting V&V results can be a daunting task, but you can make it simpler and more efficient by adhering to some best practices and using certain tools. Templates and checklists should be used to ensure accuracy and completeness of your documentation and report. Clear and concise language should be used, avoiding jargon or ambiguity. Tables, charts, graphs, and diagrams can be used to present your data and analysis in an understandable way. Additionally, references and citations should be used to support your sources and claims. A version control system can be used to track and manage your documentation and report revisions, while a document management system should be used for storing and sharing your documentation securely and conveniently.

4 How to review and improve your V&V documentation and report?

Prior to submitting your V&V documentation and report, you should review and improve them to guarantee their quality and accuracy. This can be done by examining the documentation and report for any mistakes, discrepancies, or omissions. Additionally, you should verify that your documentation and report satisfy the requirements and expectations of your stakeholders and decision-makers, as well as validate that the documentation and report accurately reflect the V&V results and conclusions. Furthermore, it is beneficial to seek feedback from peers, experts, or reviewers, and to incorporate any changes or updates based on the input.

5 How to present and communicate your V&V documentation and report?

Once you have completed your V&V documentation and report, you should present and communicate them to your stakeholders and decision-makers in a clear and convincing way. To do this, start by preparing a summary or executive summary of your V&V documentation and report, highlighting the key points and outcomes. Then, choose the appropriate format and medium for your presentation, such as a slide deck, a video, a webinar, or a report. Additionally, tailor your presentation to your audience by using language, tone, and style that suit their level of knowledge and interest. Engage your audience with stories, examples, and questions to illustrate and explain your V&V results and recommendations. Finally, follow up with your audience by providing additional information, answering questions, or addressing concerns.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?