Validation Procedure

From 1st April 2009, the software validation and approval process will adopt on a new format. Please download the validation and approval process flow chart for detailed information.

An application will fall into one of the following three categories for all classes of software:

  • Full validation
  • Re-validation
  • Self-validation

All application categories will use the set of test cases and procedures relevant to the respective software class. This could be found in:

Full validation

This category is for new entrant software packages not previously approved by DCLG under BECSAS. The validation and approval process flow chart describes the procedure in more detail. The procedure is divided into two stages.

    Stage One: self-assessment

    The software developer will use the provided test cases to carry out testing on their software package. The test results should then be submitted to the scheme for validation. A subsequent two-way consultation will facilitate resolving software non-compliant issues.

    Stage Two: live-assessment

    Upon satisfactory achievement in Stage One, the software will be further evaluated in a live-assessment to be attended by the software developer and the scheme assessors. The software developer will need to demonstrate that the software is compliant and appropriately satisfying its required function in the production of relevant calculations and documents.

Re-validation

This category applies to software packages already approved by DCLG under BECSAS. This category is only active under the following situations:

  • Major changes in guidelines and specifications
  • Special instruction from DCLG
  • Requested by BECSAS based on specified circumstances during an evaluation of an application

The procedure under this category is divided into two stages.

    Stage One: self-assessment

    The software developer will use the provided test cases to carry out a self-assessment on their software package. The software developer needs to demonstrate that the software passes all the test cases and criteria and declare in a pro-forma that the software is compliant with guidelines and specifications.

    Stage Two: live-assessment

    The software developer will attend a live-assessment meeting with the scheme assessors for closer evaluation of the software. More checks and testing will be carried out in this session. The software developer will need to demonstrate that the software is compliant and appropriately satisfying its required function in the production of relevant calculations and documents.

Self-validation

This category is for software packages already approved by DCLG under BECSAS. Under circumstances where approved software is subjected to development beyond its approved state, the software developer will need to perform self-assessment by making sure that the software remains compliant by using the provided test cases and criteria. This will apply to cases where a software package undergo a developer planned and scheduled development, which will also directly and indirectly affect the calculation engine. The software developer will subsequently inform BECSAS UK and declare that their software has successfully completed a self-validation procedure. BECSAS will update records and the website. The corresponding software version number changes will also be shown on the website.