Performing analyses or having them done does guarantee a level of validation. Having these analyses and processes challenged adds an essential level of validation and increases validity:

Internal Audits

See also Engineering - Management support

Based on internal reviews/audits, provide information concerning means to proactively increase product quality & reliability and decrease cost of ownership (maintenance cost, redesign/modification costs, spares cost, ...)

 

External Audits

Suppliers/subcontractor audits to validate supplier dedication to product quality, reliability, safety and maintainability, both hard- and software.

Audits against specific norms (eg. Railways: EN50126)