defect detection, which has been shown to be much less expensive than finding defects during
integration testing or later.1
Done well, an ongoing quality assurance process with thorough QA testing involves the entire project
team and calls upon each person to take responsibility for the quality of the end product. Accurate
record-keeping and a focus on continuous improvement are critical, as is the need to continually
monitor the QA process itself to ensure that it’s effective.
How Does QA Help Control Risk?
A quality assurance methodology is a valuable part of an overall risk management strategy designed to
protect you and your business.
Careful project management and QA documentation typically result in a better-quality product that’s
less vulnerable to scope creep and delays, resulting in a more satisfied client and better management of
risk for your business. But more importantly, a solid QA and testing methodology helps you reduce your
exposure to a lawsuit from your client.
Without ongoing QA, your project could fail to meet identified objectives, creating delays that cost your
client both time and money. At the same time, your software or system’s failure or inability to integrate
could have a negative impact on other system components, causing downtime or financial loss for your
client. Any of these scenarios open your company to liability if a client should decide to sue you for
damages.