Verification

• Ensures the product is being built correctly according to specifications.
• Involves reviewing designs, requirements, and architecture for completeness and accuracy.
• Typically carried out during the development phase.
• Methods include inspections, walkthroughs, reviews, and static analysis.
• Answers the question: “Are we building the product right?”

Validation

• Ensures the final product meets user needs and intended purpose.
• Involves testing the actual system or component at the end or during development.
• Confirms that the product is fit for real-world use.
• Methods include functional testing, user acceptance testing, and field testing.
• Answers the question: “Are we building the right product?”

Key Difference

• Verification = process-oriented (checking compliance with requirements & specs).
• Validation = product-oriented (ensuring usability, reliability, and customer satisfaction).