### The Importance of Standard ISO/IEC TS 17035:2024 in the Validation and Verification Sector
In the landscape of conformity assessment, validation and verification activities play a crucial role, standing apart from traditional certification and inspection practices. The standard ISO/IEC TS 17035:2024, which provides guidelines for validation and verification programs, aligns with the ISO/IEC 17029:2019 standard, which sets forth principles and requirements for organizations involved in such services. But what significance do these standards hold in the current context?
Unlike certification, which offers a certificate of conformity for a defined period, validation and verification focus on the reliability of information stated in specific assertions. This information can relate to a multitude of sectors, ranging from environmental aspects, such as greenhouse gas emissions, to more technical themes regarding efficient construction or energy management. The vast scope makes it essential to define specific requirements for each reference sector, as ISO/IEC 17029:2019, while being a general guideline, cannot cover all challenges and needs of every context.
The validation and verification of declared information help ensure sustainable practices, contributing to the transparency and reliability of statements made by companies and organizations. The new standard, therefore, becomes fundamental in addressing the ambiguity that often exists in the definition of “program,” a source of confusion that can arise even among experts and consultants. Different standards may provide differing definitions, making it difficult to interpret and consistently apply such guidelines.
It is not uncommon for an entity wishing to use these services to feel disoriented in seeking the correct references to assess conformity. Even consultants, not always adequately trained, may find themselves facing unharmonized positions among various validation and verification bodies. For this reason, ISO/IEC TS 17035:2024 aims to clarify the minimum requirements necessary for a validation and verification program to be accredited according to the guidelines of ISO/IEC 17029:2019.
Among the various aspects addressed by the standard, it emerges that a validation and verification program must include clear requirements. It is essential to define the scope of application, the competency requirements for the involved organizations, and the operational procedures. Furthermore, it is required that the “programme owner,” that is, the person responsible for the development and maintenance of the program, possesses a comprehensive understanding of the objectives and stakeholders and ensures adequate financial resources for its operation.
In a continuously evolving context characterized by increasingly integrated and specialized practices, the clarity of regulations will facilitate validation and verification processes. These practices not only offer opportunities for businesses to demonstrate their responsibility towards the environment and society but also represent a necessary response to the growing expectations of consumers regarding sustainability and the accuracy of information.
Finally, the world of validation and verification is undoubtedly opening innovative scenarios that can benefit from it. With the proliferation of advanced technologies, from artificial intelligence to sustainable resource management, the importance of clear standards such as ISO/IEC TS 17035:2024 cannot be underestimated. This standard, by coordinating the actions of consultants, clients, validation bodies, and accreditation bodies, aims to elevate the quality and reliability of the statements made.
It is time to navigate this new landscape, confronting the challenges and opportunities it presents. If you wish to stay informed and delve into issues related to validation and verification, follow us on our social media profiles! Don’t miss the opportunity to update yourself on the latest news and share your experiences with us.
