What is the purpose of independent software verification in safety-critical systems like NANTeL?

• A. Verifies software correctness independently of the development team
• B. Is performed by the same developers who wrote the code
• C. Is not used in safety-critical systems
• D. Is optional for safety-critical systems

Answer: (A)

Independent software verification provides an objective check of software correctness and safety by someone not involved in coding or design. This separation matters because it guards against bias and product familiarity that can hide defects, ensuring issues are found that the original developers might overlook. By having an independent team review requirements, design, code, and test results, you gain credible evidence that the software meets safety criteria and complies with relevant standards. This external validation supports regulatory acceptance and the overall safety case for the system.

In practice, independent verification can include reviews, audits, and independent testing and analysis aligned with requirements traceability and safety standards. It’s not performed by the same developers, it isn’t optional, and it is indeed used in safety-critical systems to build trust and assurance.