Validation test vs. Conformance test - What are the differences?

[buffalo_hua]

Hello everyone,
I am confused by the captioned 2 types of tests, who can explain it ? with many thanks！

 

[Jim Wynne]

Hello everyone,
I am confused by the captioned 2 types of tests, who can explain it ? with many thanks！

The two terms don't have universally agreed upon definitions, and its always best to find out how your customer defines them, but in general validation testing applies to processes, and conformance testing applies specifically to output. In other words, a process is "validated" when it is proven that the process is efficacious (capable of performing as expected) and predictable. Of course, conformance testing is a necessary part of validation testing--i.e., verifying that output complies with requirements.

 

[qualitygoddess - 2010]

From ISO 9004:

(see 3.6.1, in terms relating to conformity) Conformity is fulfillment of a requirement. So conformance testing is to determine fulfillment of a requirement.

(see 3.8.5, in terma relating to examination) Validation is confirmation, through the provosion of objective evidence (3.8.1) that the requirements for a specific intended use or application have been fulfilled.

Therefore, IMHO, conformance testing is a subset of validation testing.

--QG

 

[Cari Spears]

Therefore, IMHO, conformance testing is a subset of validation testing.

Exactly. You validate the process by showing that its product is conforming. If your product is not conforming, you figure out why (temperature, pressure, cycle time, whatever) and adjust the process until its product conforms.

 

[Jim Howe]

validation vs conformence

In my early years under Mil-Q we had what we called Qualificiation and conformance testing. I usually confused the two when performing a review of specs and learned the hard way that you don't want to requalify when you only wish to conform. It seems to me that the term "validate" bears a striking resemblence to "qualify". Yes, No ???

 

[qualitygoddess - 2010]

In my early years under Mil-Q we had what we called Qualificiation and conformance testing. I usually confused the two when performing a review of specs and learned the hard way that you don't want to requalify when you only wish to conform. It seems to me that the term "validate" bears a striking resemblence to "qualify". Yes, No ???

Jim:

I understand your reasoning and agree. Kind of like the difference between first article and first piece. I think the form that validation takes is dependent on the process itself. In most cases, an inspection of product will tell you if the process is correct or not. I think it is also safe to say that validation can also include an inspection/verification of process parameters -- like temp., pressure, speed, etc.

--QG