Why is validation important in the Requirements Life Cycle?

Validation plays a crucial role in the Requirements Life Cycle as it directly addresses the need to align project outcomes with stakeholder expectations. By confirming that the requirements meet the actual needs of stakeholders, validation helps to mitigate risks associated with misunderstood or misrepresented requirements. When stakeholder needs are accurately identified and verified early in the process, it reduces the likelihood of significant revisions later. This not only saves time but also minimizes costs associated with rework and adjustments, which can be substantial if issues are discovered late in the project.

The emphasis on validation helps ensure that the final deliverables fulfill the intended purpose and meet quality standards, ultimately leading to stakeholder satisfaction. It establishes a solid foundation for all subsequent phases of the project by ensuring that the requirements being pursued are the right ones. This process is a proactive approach to identifying potential discrepancies and addressing them before they evolve into larger problems in project execution.