Difference between V-model and W-model | Software Testing

How are V and W models different by definition?

The software development process is a strategy in which a product is made to go through different phases, such as ideation, arranging, creation, and testing, before the end product is conveyed.

The big difference is, as a prerequisite for the Waterfall model, testing can only happen once the development of the software product is finished without any adjustments in the middle. The W model is a straightforward successive approach in which the progress flows in just one direction.

On the other hand, V Model, also called Verification and Validation Model, is like the waterfall model that takes a successive way of executing procedures. In that sense, we can say V-model is the alternative to the W-model as steps are followed as requirements, design, implementation, verification, and maintenance.

The V-model has been a staple in software quality testing since its introduction to the market back in the 1980s. Its sequence of steps is designed so that each phase builds upon the completion of preceding tasks, forming an upwards-bent progression for maximum efficiency and execution accuracy.

Conclusion

While it is true that the V model is an effective way to test and reveal results for dynamic test cycles, there is no scope for risk management and mitigation for scheduling especially. In contrast, W models are more effective in catching defects early in the delivery pipeline and enable the development team to get an extensive view of testing. However, important to remember that the W model is often compared to agile testing where testing happens in parallel which requires a significant amount of resources throughout the product cycle.

One must pick carefully, a model that works better with the available pool of resources and the complexity of each project in order to convey a quality software product.