What is the difference between process validation and process verification?

• A. Validation proves the process performs to specifications under real conditions; verification confirms the design and setup correctly implement the intended process.
• B. Verification proves the process is fast.
• C. Validation is the same as verification.
• D. Verification is optional.

Answer: (A)

The main idea is to separate proving that a process actually works in real production versus proving that the process was designed and set up correctly to deliver that work. Process validation shows the process consistently produces products that meet specifications under real operating conditions, based on actual production data. Process verification checks that the process design and the way it is installed and configured are correctly implemented and capable of delivering the intended process. This distinction is why the best choice states that validation demonstrates performance to specifications under real conditions, while verification confirms the design and setup correctly implement the intended process. It’s not about speed, it isn’t claiming they’re the same, and verification isn’t optional.