System verification, validation, and testing

The main focus of this chapter is on a series of technical and management activities necessary for successful VV&T of complex systems. This chapter discusses VV&T methodologies and tools for complex systems, which consist of hardware components, software components, and processes. Architectural attributes that affect the VV&T process, verification methods, verification planning and implementation, verification phases throughout the system development cycle, system testing planning and deployment, as well as validation are discussed in detail. A classical virtual network service (VNS) of the late twentieth century is introduced as an example of VV&T processes. This VNS is then compared to current plans for the multimedia networks comprising the next generation networks (NGNs). These examples show the evolution of VV&T methodologies and processes in the fast-changing environment. Finally, a case study on the current NASA Constellation program is presented, which illustrates VV&T planning in the aerospace industry.