Independent Verification and Validation: A Missing Link in Simulation Methodology?

Abstract

Independent verification and validation (IV&V) is a powerful tool that can be used to mitigate the increasing complexities associated with an ever-expanding set of modeling and simulation problems. In this paper we discuss the use of independent V&V within the modeling and simulation community. Literature reviews and conversations with experienced technical managers serve as a basis for our conjecture that (a) validation is the major focus of most modeling and simulation efforts, (b) verification plays only a secondary role, and (c) independent V&V is, for all practical purposes, being ignored. In an effort to raise the awareness of the benefits and applicability of independent V&V within the modeling and simulation community, we describe in a step-by-step fashion the application of independent V&V to one particular life cycle model of a simulation study.