Independent Verification and Validation (IV&V) has long been a critical component of ensuring software quality and compliance. In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, the traditional Waterfall approach may no longer suffice.

In the ever-evolving software industry, quick and continuous feedback is vital. Waterfall methodologies, characterized by lengthy phases, often struggle to provide timely insights into potential issues. Agile, on the other hand, promotes regular feedback through its iterative approach, allowing for early detection and correction of defects.

Radius Method provides an innovative approach, which bridges the gap between traditional Waterfall IV&V and Agile IV&V. It maintains independence while adapting to Agile principles. By integrating IV&V activities within Agile development cycles, Radius ensures that software verification and validation occur in parallel with development efforts.

Many believe that Agile development compromises independence due to its collaborative nature. However, this is a misconception. Agile processes can uphold independence by embedding it into cross-functional teams. Independent testers can work closely with developers, ensuring objectivity while fostering collaboration.

NIST’s Role in Modernizing IV&V:
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) plays a pivotal role in guiding IV&V practices. Their guidance, initially penned in 1996, is in dire need of an update to align with the realities of modern software development. Several factors contribute to this necessity:

• Rapid Technological Advancements: The software industry has witnessed unprecedented technological advancements since 1996, including cloud computing, AI, and DevOps. NIST’s guidance must reflect these changes.
• Agile and DevOps Adoption: The widespread adoption of Agile and DevOps methodologies has shifted the software development landscape. NIST’s guidance should accommodate these methodologies for more effective IV&V.
• Short Feedback Loops: Short feedback loops, a fundamental aspect of Agile, are essential for IV&V. NIST’s guidance should emphasize the importance of incorporating these loops into the verification and validation process.

The evolution of IV&V needs to be changed in the face of Agile’s dominance and technological progress. Radius Method offers a solution that combines the benefits of Agile with independence. NIST must update its guidance to adapt to modern software development practices, including Agile and short feedback loops, to ensure the continued relevance of IV&V in our dynamic digital world. Contact us for more information.