How do you integrate validation techniques with other system analysis methods and phases?

1 Understand the purpose and scope of validation

The first step to integrate validation techniques with other system analysis methods and phases is to understand the purpose and scope of validation for your system. Validation is not the same as verification, which checks whether the system conforms to the specifications and standards. Validation checks whether the system fulfills the needs and expectations of the stakeholders, users, and customers. Therefore, validation should focus on the value and quality of the system from their perspective, not from the technical or functional perspective. The scope of validation depends on the type, complexity, and scale of the system, as well as the risks and constraints involved.

2 Choose appropriate validation techniques

The second step to integrate validation techniques with other system analysis methods and phases is to choose appropriate validation techniques for your system. There are many validation techniques available, such as prototyping, walkthroughs, inspections, reviews, testing, surveys, interviews, focus groups, usability studies, and user acceptance testing. Each technique has its own advantages, disadvantages, costs, and benefits. You should select the validation techniques that suit your system characteristics, objectives, resources, and stakeholders. You should also consider the trade-offs between the validity, reliability, and feasibility of the validation techniques.

3 Plan and schedule validation activities

The third step to integrate validation techniques with other system analysis methods and phases is to plan and schedule validation activities for your system. Validation activities should be aligned with the system analysis methods and phases, such as feasibility analysis, requirement analysis, design analysis, implementation analysis, and maintenance analysis. You should define the validation objectives, criteria, methods, tools, data, roles, responsibilities, and deliverables for each system analysis phase. You should also estimate the time, cost, and effort required for each validation activity. You should document and communicate the validation plan and schedule to the relevant stakeholders, users, and customers.

4 Conduct and monitor validation activities

The fourth step to integrate validation techniques with other system analysis methods and phases is to conduct and monitor validation activities for your system. Validation activities should be performed according to the validation plan and schedule, using the selected validation techniques and tools. You should involve the stakeholders, users, and customers in the validation activities, as they are the ultimate judges of the system value and quality. You should collect and analyze the validation data, such as feedback, comments, suggestions, errors, defects, issues, and improvements. You should also track and report the validation progress, results, and outcomes.

5 Evaluate and improve validation outcomes

The fifth step to integrate validation techniques with other system analysis methods and phases is to evaluate and improve validation outcomes for your system. Validation outcomes should be compared and contrasted with the validation objectives and criteria, as well as the system requirements and expectations. You should identify and prioritize the validation findings, such as strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. You should also propose and implement the validation actions, such as corrections, revisions, enhancements, and refinements. You should document and communicate the validation evaluation and improvement to the relevant stakeholders, users, and customers.

6 Review and update validation plan

The sixth step to integrate validation techniques with other system analysis methods and phases is to review and update the validation plan for your system. Validation is an iterative and incremental process that requires constant adaptation and adjustment. You should review and update the validation plan based on the validation outcomes, feedback, changes, and lessons learned. You should also consider the impact of the validation plan on the system analysis methods and phases, as well as the system development life cycle. You should document and communicate the validation review and update to the relevant stakeholders, users, and customers.

7 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?