Guidance in preparing Software Verification and Validation Plans (SVVPs) that comply with IEEE Std 1012-1986 are provided. IEEE Std 1012-1986 specifies the required content for an SVVP. This guide recommends approaches to Verification and Validation (V & V) planning. This guide does not present requirements beyond those stated in IEEE Std 1012-1986.

This document provides specific guidance about planning and documenting the tasks required by the Standard so that the user may write an effective plan. Some guidance is in the form of checklists, questions, or activities to consider. This guide does not present requirements beyond those found in the Standard. Mention of certain methods or activities in this guide does not mean that the user of the Standard must include these in a plan in order for that plan to comply with the Standard. There may be other methods or activities that are relevant to a specific software project or product. The user of this guide is encouraged to survey the standards referenced in clause for additional guidance, particularly guidance for specific tools or techniques.