What is V Model in Software Development and How Does it Work?

While developing software, adopting a clear and well-planned approach is necessary. To successfully complete every phase of this process, the V model in software development helps to form this approach. The structure of the V-shaped model clarifies different stages to focus on throughout the SDLC or software development lifecycle. Note that this model works through the application of several principles. While applying these, the development of software is segmented into various steps. They are inclusive of detecting system requirements, planning its design, implementing the software, as well as conducting integration. The presence of any defects or errors is cleared earlier when this model begins to function.

What is V Model in Software Development?

Verification and validation or V model in software development is a crucial methodology. Since it includes testing as well as validation across every stage of the SDLC or software development lifecycle, it extends the waterfall methodology. Note that this model is named after its shape. Its diagram is V-shaped, comprising 2 main sides.

• The left side of the model indicates development phases.
• On the other hand, the right side depicts the phases of testing.

5 Principles of Verification and Validation Model

V Model or verification and validation model, works on the basis of 5 principles for software development/testing. These include large to small, cross-reference, clarity in documentation, data/process integrity, and scalability principles. 

Large to Small

The primary or first principle of the V model unfolds that testing should be conducted via a sequential approach. It should initially determine the requirements. Afterward, it should establish a concise yet high-level design. Following this, the principal emphasizes adding details to the project’s design phases.

Cross Reference

For the functioning of the V model in software development, cross reference is a crucial principle. Through this, a correlation is directly formed between a corresponding activity for testing and other requirements. 

Clear Documentation

The next principle vital to the V-model is documentation clarity. In relation to a project, it indicates that documentation is a significant requirement and should be looked after by support teams as well as developers.

Data/Process Integrity: 

In application development, the V-model works through principles like data and process integrity. This principle, in particular, emphasizes that processes and data should be worked together. This is to ensure a positive project design. 

Scalability

The fifth principle of the V model in software development is scalability. It involves the ability for accommodating IT projects, irrespective of their complexities, sizes, or even duration.

Why is V Model in Software Development Important?

In software development, the V-model is important for enabling early testing. Throughout the process of development, it lets professionals find and manage defects. This model works faster than those that are traditionally used. 

Looking further at the importance of the V-model in software development, it is crucial for better traceability as well. It enables the proper documentation of all requirements, test cases, and design elements. 

How does V Model Work in Software Development?

The V model in software development works through a series of steps. It starts with design being at the top-left end. Its continuation involves its implementation, mainly at the lower point of the model. As testing is placed at the upper-right corner, it comes to an end.

While software is being designed for a complex system, flexibility is required by developers. Additionally, they need the ability to improve the code. As this methodology functions, it tends to such needs.

Identifying Every Requirement for the System

The functioning of the verification and validation model begins with the identification of the main requirements for developing systems. Engineers additionally look into business needs. This stage further involves outlining the outcomes that the model will attain.

Plan the Systems Design

In the next step of the V-model in software development, engineers plan the design of the system. They focus on the functionalities required. For this, a development environment (model-based) is utilized. Afterward, they employ model-in-the-loop or MIL testing. It detects any issues or bugs during the early phase of this model.

Fulfilling Software-Related Requirements

Afterward, for the working of the verification and validation model, a group of engineers focuses on completing software requirements. It utilizes the system’s design for aligning with the goals that the system has to obtain.

Implementation of Software

As the V-model in software development continues to work, engineers develop and then compile code to build the system. For this code, they carry out testing. Through verification testing, they ensure to attain the necessary requirements. Following this, via validation testing, engineers check for appropriate results.

Integrating Software 

In the next phase of the V-model’s functioning, the software is synchronized. Its implementation takes place in accordance with the per-software or feature component scale. To completely develop this solution, every part of the execution at the small scale is synced. It is fully compiled into one entity and is then tested.

Synchronizing the System

During the final phase of the working of the V model in software development, the system is integrated. Every part of the hardware and software is assembled. Then a full system is formed, followed by its testing. Testers utilize different methods for the same purpose. Some of these include vehicle-in-the-loop or VIL testing, hardware-in-the-loop or HIL testing, and software-in-the-loop or SIL testing.

Who Needs the Verification and Validation Model in Software Development?

Companies across diverse industries need the V-model or verification and validation model in software development. These industries can range from automotive to medical. It is apt for projects that are well-defined and come with stable requirements. Such projects also require testing. Mainly, it is adequate for businesses that can’t compromise on reliability, safety, as well as precision.

To Put it All Together

The V model in software development is a vital methodology. It is significant for enabling the quick detection of defects and for adding more structure to the overall approach for development and testing. Functioning through several principles, this model is apt for businesses in different industries that need a reliable solution to develop software.