V-Model XT: Structure, phases, and implementation with Projektron BCS

The V-Model XT is a structured process model for planning and executing system development projects, which is used in particular in safety-critical and regulatory projects. It describes the entire development process and ensures that each phase is accompanied by appropriate quality assurance measures. It defines not only the results to be achieved (known as products), but also the procedures for achieving these results and the responsibilities of those involved.

As a methodological guide, the V-Model XT provides structured instructions for organizing and implementing IT system development projects, whether for software, hardware, or integrated systems. It can be used by both clients and contractors and supports communication between both parties by clearly defining terms. Although it uses classic project management terminology, its application is not limited to traditional project structures. Its flexible design allows it to be adapted to different project sizes and requirements.

In industries where mistakes can have serious consequences – such as aviation, medical technology, or administrative systems – structured development processes are essential. The V-Model XT offers a proven methodology for designing projects in a secure and traceable manner:

Structure in the development process: Clear definition of phases and results prevents uncoordinated switching between development steps.

Quality assurance: Tests and checks are firmly anchored in the development process and accompany every project phase.

Traceability: Every work result and every decision is documented – a decisive advantage for regulated industries.

Origin and development of the V-model

The classic V-model was developed in the late 1970s by Barry Boehm to create a uniform process for software development in military and government environments. It defined clear roles, phases, and quality checks to manage the complexity of IT projects.

Over time, however, the classic V-Model proved too inflexible for the dynamic requirements of modern development projects. Therefore, in 2005, the V-Model XT was introduced as a modernized and more adaptable version. It offers enhanced capabilities for adaptation to different project types and now also supports agile development approaches. The current version 2.3 was published by the German federal government in March 2019 and remains the standard for numerous government and industrial projects.

Differences between the classic V-Model and V-Model XT

Objectives and areas of application of the V-Model XT

The V-Model XT pursues three central objectives:

Structured and traceable project management: Clearly defined processes make development plannable and transparent.

Integrated quality assurance: Quality checks and tests are an integral part of every project phase.

Flexibility for different industries: The model is adaptable and can be used in various industries such as medical technology, automotive, and administration.

Typical areas of application for V-Model XT

Government IT projects: V-Model XT was developed primarily for this context and is widely used there.

Security-critical software: In sensitive areas where errors can have serious consequences, it ensures clear processes and high quality standards.

Long-term development projects: It offers a structured approach for extensive projects spanning several years.

However, the V-Model XT does not cover the entire life cycle of a system. Neither the operation nor the maintenance or decommissioning of systems are covered by the model. Likewise, it does not offer any content-related support for dealing with requirements, change requests or risks, but requires a structured approach to these aspects. This means that it remains method-neutral and can be adapted to different approaches.

The V-shaped structure and its significance

The V-Model XT is fundamentally phase-oriented and, as the name suggests, follows a V-shaped structure:

Left side (verification): Planning and design phases, e.g., requirements gathering, system architecture, detailed design.

In the middle, implementation takes place – i.e., the actual software development.

Right side (validation): Test phases that are directly assigned to the left phases – e.g., acceptance tests for requirements verification, integration tests for architecture validation, module tests for detailed design.

Key idea: Each development step on the left has a corresponding test activity on the right. This ensures traceability and quality assurance throughout the entire development process and enables errors to be detected early on, saving time and money.

Flexibility through customization options

The “XT” in the name stands for “Extreme Tailoring” – i.e., the comprehensive customizability of the model. Depending on the type and size of the project, different project implementation strategies and submodels can be used, such as:

System development – for projects in which hardware and software are developed together.

Software development – for purely software-based projects, e.g., a new ERP solution.

IT service – for projects that provide IT services, e.g., a new ticket system.

Tip: If you prefer agile project management, you can integrate elements from Scrum or Kanban into the V-Model XT. This creates hybrid models that combine the best of both worlds!

What elements and components are included in the V-Model XT?

Process building blocks in the V-Modell XT?

In the V-Modell XT, process building blocks (German: Vorgehensbausteine) are standardized, reusable modules that describe the activities and deliverables for a particular aspect of a project. In practice, they do not necessarily cover all activities and deliverables for that aspect—each building block focuses on a thematic area, and during the tailoring process, only those parts relevant to the specific project are applied. They serve as the “building blocks” for planning and executing a project, enabling a structured, systematic approach.

The V-Modell XT includes roughly 20 process building blocks in its current releases (the exact number varies slightly, typically between 19 and 21, depending on the version). Each building block contains:

Activities – Specific tasks to be performed during the project.

Products (Deliverables) – The tangible outcomes of these activities, such as documentation, technical specifications, or test reports.

Responsibilities – Roles such as project management or quality assurance assigned with clear duties for producing, reviewing, or approving deliverables.

Because of the V-Modell XT’s modular design, process building blocks can be flexibly combined based on the project type and the organization’s specific needs. This ensures that each project includes only the relevant processes and deliverables—optimizing effort and improving efficiency.

Categories of Process Building Blocks

The process building blocks in the V-Modell XT are organized into categories, each covering a different project domain. This categorization makes it easier to select the right building blocks and ensures that all essential project phases are addressed. Depending on the project type, some building blocks may be mandatory while others are optional.

Benefits of the Process Building Block Concept in the V-Modell XT

Using process building blocks in the V-Modell XT provides a range of benefits:

Standardized processes – Ensures a consistent approach across projects.

Clear roles and workflows – Each role has well-defined responsibilities.

Workflow support – Enables efficient execution and traceability of work.

Better information flow – Products and their dependencies are clearly documented.

Flexibility and adaptability – Projects use only the building blocks they need, avoiding unnecessary processes.

The V-Model XT structures software development projects into clearly defined phases based on the classic V-shape. From the initial idea to the long-term operation of a system, this structure ensures traceability, quality assurance, and a systematic approach. Each phase has its own significance—and its own challenges.

1. Requirements analysis in the V-Model XT

Requirements analysis is the first phase in the V-Model XT and forms the basis for the entire development process. The aim is to record, document, and validate all requirements for the planned system. This phase ensures that everyone involved has a common understanding of the project goals and serves as a starting point for the following development phases.

Objectives of requirements analysis

Capture all functional and non-functional requirements

Document the requirements in the requirements and functional specifications

Validate and coordinate with all stakeholders

Ensure traceability for later phases

Requirements analysis process

1. Requirement gathering: Conducting interviews and workshops with stakeholders, analyzing existing systems or documentation, recording user requirements and system objectives
2. Requirement documentation: Creating a requirements specification: describes what the system should do from the client's perspective, creating a functional specification: specifies the requirements from the contractor's perspective and describes how the requirements will be implemented
3. Requirement review and approval: Validation of requirements for completeness, consistency, and feasibility; joint review and approval of documented requirements by all participants

Decision points in requirements analysis

1. Approval of the requirements specification: Verification that all requirements have been recorded from the customer's perspective; formal decision on acceptance as the basis for the functional specification
2. Approval of the functional specifications: Checking the technical feasibility of all requirements, decision on approval as the starting point for the system design

These decision points are essential to ensure that the following development phases are based on a stable and tested foundation.

2. System design in the V-Model XT

The system design phase in the V-Model XT serves to translate the requirements into a technical solution. This involves determining how the system is structured, which modules exist, and how they communicate with each other. This phase is crucial for creating a clear blueprint for later implementation.

Objectives of system design

Development of a modular system architecture

Definition of interfaces and system boundaries

Ensuring technical feasibility and consistency

Preparation of implementation through detailed specifications

System design process

1. Architecture design: Breakdown of the overall system into modules and components, definition of system boundaries and data flows, specification of technical platforms and frameworks
2. Interface definition: Description of the interaction between the modules, definition of communication protocols, ensuring compatibility between the system components
3. Documentation of the design: Creation of technical specifications for each module, recording of design decisions for traceability

Decision points in system design

1. Approval of the architecture design: Checking consistency between requirements and design, deciding whether the design can be handed over for implementation
2. Review of technical specifications: Ensuring that all modules are fully described, deciding on approval for implementation

The decision points in the system design ensure that all technical details are checked and coordinated before the actual implementation begins.

3. Implementation in the V-Model XT

The implementation phase is the practical implementation of the previously created system design. Here, the system is translated into code, modules are developed and integrated. This phase is central, as this is where the actual software or system is created.

Goals of implementation

Translation of the system design into functioning code

Quality assurance through continuous testing

Modularized development to facilitate integration

Implementation process

1. Module development: Programming of the individual system components, observing the technical specifications
2. Module tests: Performing unit tests to check functionality, identify and correct errors
3. Module integration: Merging all developed modules, testing the interfaces and overall functionality

Decision points in the implementation

1. Approval of module tests: Confirmation that each module meets the defined requirements, decision to proceed to the integration phase
2. Acceptance of integration: Verification of the correct functioning of all modules together, decision to approve for system verification

The defined decision points ensure that only tested and functional modules are integrated into the overall system.

4. System and acceptance tests in the V-Model XT

In this phase, the developed system is checked to ensure that it fully meets the requirements. To this end, comprehensive tests are carried out at the module, system, and acceptance levels.

Objectives of system and acceptance tests

Verification: Checking whether the system has been developed in accordance with the specifications

Validation: Ensuring that the system meets the actual requirements

Documentation of all test results

Test phase procedure

1. System verification: Performing functional tests, ensuring that requirements are met
2. Acceptance tests: Tests under real conditions, validation by the customer or client
3. Troubleshooting: Identification and correction of defects, repetition of tests in the event of changes

Decision points in the test phase

1. Approval of system verification: Confirmation that all technical requirements have been met
2. Acceptance decision: Official handover to the customer after successful testing

These decision points are essential to ensure that the system works without errors and meets the requirements.

5. Maintenance and servicing in the V-Model XT

The maintenance phase begins after the system has been successfully accepted. Here, the system is further supported in order to correct errors, make adjustments or implement enhancements.

Maintenance objectives

Ensuring stable operation

Error corrections and optimizations

Adjustments to changed requirements

Maintenance phase process

1. Troubleshooting: Analysis of error messages, correction, and retesting
2. System adaptation: Implementation of updates and enhancements
3. Documentation: Updating of system and user documentation

Decision points in maintenance

1. Approval of changes: Decision on the implementation of adjustments
2. Completion of maintenance: Decision on when a system is taken out of service

This phase ensures the long-term functionality of the system.

The project implementation strategies of the V-Model XT

The project implementation strategy in the V-Model XT defines the sequence and number of decision points that serve as central milestones in the course of the project. Decision points are defined milestones at which certain products must be available in a predefined state. They thus form a basis for important project decisions, such as the transition to the next phase.

An example of this is the decision point “Project defined.” At this point, at least the project manual and the quality assurance manual must be completed. Only when the requirements of a decision point have been met can the project be continued.

Every model is only as good as the people who implement it. In V-Model XT, roles are clearly defined to structure responsibilities and accountabilities within a project. Each role describes specific tasks that are necessary to achieve the project goals. There are a total of 35 roles, which are divided into two main categories: project roles and organizational roles.

Project roles in V-Model XT

Project roles are directly involved in operational implementation. They include, among others:

System developer: Carries out the technical implementation of requirements. Writes code, implements solutions, and tests individual components. Works closely with the system architect to ensure that the solutions developed meet the defined requirements.

Tester: Checks the developed systems for functionality and quality. They carry out tests in accordance with the test concept and document the results. In addition, testers identify errors, report them to the development team, and ensure the traceability of the test processes.

These roles have overarching tasks and contribute to quality assurance:

Quality manager: Responsible for maintaining quality standards and performing quality checks. He defines quality objectives, plans and coordinates audits, and ensures continuous improvement of processes.

Configuration manager: Manages all project artifacts such as source code, documents, and configuration files. Ensures consistency and traceability and implements an effective version control system.

Change manager: Responsible for coordinating and documenting changes to the project scope or plan. Analyzes change requests, evaluates their impact, and ensures structured implementation.

The customer in V-Model XT

The customer also plays a central role in V-Model XT. They can act as both the client and the user. The customer defines the requirements, evaluates the project results, and approves key milestones. The customer is also involved in the acceptance of the system and provides feedback on quality and functionality.

Dependencies and cooperation within the model

The V-Model XT only works if the participants work together effectively. Here are some examples of typical dependencies:

The project manager needs regular status reports from developers and testers.

The developer relies on clear requirements that have been worked out together with the customer.

The tester can only deliver meaningful results if test cases are defined at an early stage.

The model promotes transparency and clear communication—but only if everyone involved sticks to their roles. Otherwise, the structured approach quickly becomes a bureaucratic trap.

The clear assignment of responsibilities ensures plannability and traceability. But as in any project, communication is the key to success!

In the V-Model XT, the results and interim results to be achieved are referred to as products. These products document the progress of a project and form the basis for subsequent work steps. In total, the V-Model XT defines 108 products that are created in the various phases of a project. The products are closely linked in terms of content and are structured hierarchically. Products that belong together thematically are grouped into disciplines, and a complex product can be subdivided into several topics. Responsibility for creating a product lies with defined processors who are assigned specific roles. Each activity in the model leads to the completion of a product, whereby sub-activities or work steps can also be defined when processing topics.

The main product categories

Products per phase

1. Requirements analysis

The requirements analysis defines the system requirements that serve as the basis for all further steps.

• Requirements specification: Describes the client's requirements for the system.
• Functional specification: Translates the requirements into concrete technical specifications.
• Requirements management document: Used to manage and track requirements.

Decision point: After the requirements have been defined, a check is carried out to ensure that all requirements are complete and clearly formulated before the system architecture is planned.

2. System and software design

This phase focuses on the development of a detailed design that forms the basis for implementation.

• System architecture document: Defines the structure of the system and describes how the individual components work together.
• Detailed design specification: Contains technical details on the implementation of the system.
• Interface specification: Determines how different system components communicate with each other.

Decision point: Approval of the design ensures that the system is feasible in terms of design and that the architecture is suitable for implementation.

3. Implementation

In the implementation phase, the system components are developed based on the design specifications.

• Source code: The actual code developed for the system.
• Module and integration tests: Tests to check the individual components and how they work together.
• Development documentation: Documents the code and serves as a reference for maintenance and future developments.

Decision point: After implementation, the code is reviewed and approved to ensure that it meets the design specifications.

4. Verification and validation

In this phase, the system is checked to ensure that it meets the requirements and functions properly.

• Test plans and protocols: Plan and document the test procedures and results.
• Error and deviation reports: Recorded errors and deviations identified during testing.
• Acceptance report: Documents the successful verification and acceptance of the system.

Decision point: Once all tests have been successfully completed, the system is released for acceptance.

5. Maintenance and servicing

After the system has been handed over, maintenance is carried out to keep the system up to date and adapt it to new requirements.

• Change management document: Documents changes and adjustments made after system acceptance.
• Operating and user documentation: Supports the operation and use of the system.
• Maintenance reports: Details the maintenance and adjustment measures carried out.

Decision point: Every change to the system is reviewed and only integrated into the production environment after approval.

Tailoring in the context of the V-Model XT refers to the adaptation of the standard model to the specific needs and requirements of a project. Every project has its own particularities, whether due to its size, complexity, the technologies used, or the specific requirements of the client. The V-Model XT is a flexible model that can be tailored to best suit the requirements of the project at hand.

Why is tailoring necessary?

The V-Model XT offers a structured and standardized approach, but it cannot be adopted unchanged for every project. Tailoring is necessary to adapt the model to the actual circumstances of a project. This applies to the processes as well as the documentation, methods, and tools used.

An example: A large company that wants to develop a complex system may need more detailed planning documents and more extensive testing than a small start-up creating a simple software tool. In this case, tailoring ensures that the development process is more efficient and specific.

What is adapted during tailoring?

There are several aspects that are taken into account when tailoring the V-Model XT:

1. Process model: The V-Model XT describes various phases and decision points that are typically passed through. In a simple project, however, some of these phases can be combined or skipped. In a highly complex project, additional phases could be introduced, such as more detailed planning or additional quality checks.
2. Documentation: The V-Model XT specifies which documents must be created in each phase. These requirements can be adjusted during tailoring. For example, detailed documentation of the system architecture may not be necessary for a small project, while particularly detailed documentation is required for a large project.
3. Methods and tools: The V-Model XT requires the use of certain methods and tools, but these may vary depending on the project requirements. A project that uses agile methods could perform certain parts of the model, such as the requirements analysis phase, iteratively and adapt them regularly. The use of software tools for configuration management or quality assurance can also be decided according to the specific requirements of the project.
4. Roles and responsibilities: The V-Model XT defines specific roles for each phase of the project. These roles can be adapted or redefined during tailoring. For example, a small project with only a few team members may not need a separate role for a configuration manager, whereas this is crucial in a large project with multiple teams.

Tailoring process in the V-Model XT

At the start of a project, the process must be tailored to the specific project conditions. This adaptation is carried out in three steps:

1. Determining the project type: The V-Model XT distinguishes between different project types, such as system development or further development of existing systems. It also determines whether the project is being carried out from the perspective of the client or the contractor.
2. Selecting a project type variant: Each project type has at least one project type variant that defines the framework conditions for the possible course of a project.
3. Defining the project characteristics: Project characteristics such as security requirements, use of finished products, or the need for commercial project planning are determined.

Defining these parameters results in a selection of process modules and project implementation strategies that are relevant for the respective project.

Static vs. dynamic tailoring

Tailoring can be static or dynamic:

Static tailoring: The V-Model XT is adapted at the beginning of the project and remains largely unchanged during its runtime.

Dynamic tailoring: The model is further adapted during the project. For example, it may turn out that the determination of quantitative project metrics is necessary after all.

Examples of tailoring in the V-Model XT

1. Project size and complexity

In a project to develop a mobile app that is carried out with only a few team members, the V-Model XT could be greatly simplified. The phases could be reduced to the essential elements: a simplified requirements analysis, rapid design, and agile implementation. In a large project to develop a safety-critical system, such as control software for industrial plants, all phases of the V-Model XT would be carried out in full, including detailed test phases and extensive documentation.

2. Agile methods and V-Model XT

In a project based on agile methods, tailoring could lead to the V-Model XT being adapted iteratively. Instead of going through each phase strictly, the system is developed in short cycles (e.g., in sprints), with the requirements being reviewed and adjusted after each cycle. In such a case, the V-Model XT could be adapted so that the requirements analysis and implementation phases are carried out in parallel and repeatedly.

3. Scaling the documentation

In a large and complex project, detailed documents are required for each phase to ensure transparency and the traceability of decisions. In a small, non-critical project, however, the documentation can be simplified considerably. For example, the system architecture documentation in a small project could be based on a rough draft, whereas a large project would require a detailed architecture with comprehensive interface descriptions and design decisions.

4. Integration of new technologies

The V-Model XT can be adapted if modern technologies or special requirements are placed on the system. A project that works with cloud technologies, for example, can use tailoring to add special phases for managing the cloud infrastructure and scaling the system. Similarly, the use of new testing methods (e.g., automated testing) can be integrated into the model to ensure the quality of the system.

The V-Model XT offers a proven structure for software development projects – but like any model, it has both strengths and challenges.

Clear structure and traceability

A major advantage of the V-Model XT is its clear structure. The phases, roles, and test steps define how a project will proceed right from the start. This ensures a high degree of traceability: every decision, every requirement, and every change is documented so that even years later, you can still understand why a particular solution was chosen.

Why is this important?

Avoiding misunderstandings between developers, testers, and customers

Clear checkpoints reduce the risk of errors being discovered late in the process

Consistent documentation facilitates maintenance and further development

This traceability is essential in safety-critical industries such as medical technology or aviation—after all, developers and testers must be able to prove that every requirement has been implemented correctly.

Support through tools and templates

Another advantage: The V-Model XT provides numerous tools, checklists, and templates that companies can use to implement standardized processes. These templates help automate recurring tasks and avoid errors.

Typical tools in the V-Model XT:

Requirements and test case templates

Standardized review protocols

Tools for project planning and tracking

Many companies rely on special project management software (e.g., Projektron BCS) to map the entire process efficiently. This allows teams to centrally manage requirements, document test cases, and visualize dependencies between tasks.

Challenges during implementation

Despite all its advantages, applying the V-Model XT can be challenging. The most common challenges include:

High documentation effort: The model requires detailed documentation, which can seem excessive for small projects.

Lack of flexibility: Rigid processes can slow down innovation if the model is not adapted to specific needs.

Acceptance by stakeholders: Developers often prefer more agile methods, while customers do not always have the patience for detailed requirements analysis.

To overcome these challenges, it is advisable to adapt the model pragmatically – which brings us directly to the next point.

The V-Model XT is not a theoretical construct, but is used successfully in many industries. Companies benefit from the structured approach, especially when security, traceability, and quality assurance play a major role.

Examples from industry

The model is primarily used where software must function error-free and securely. Some typical areas of application:

• Automotive industry: Control units and driver assistance systems must be developed and tested according to strict standards.
• Medical technology: Software for medical devices undergoes precise verification and validation.
• Aerospace: Errors in software can have catastrophic consequences here, which is why the V-Model XT is particularly suitable.
• Public administration: Large IT projects carried out by public authorities are often based on this model to ensure legal compliance and security.

The V-Model XT has established itself as a reliable standard, particularly in safety-critical areas.

Adaptability for different project sizes

A common criticism is that the V-Model XT is too complex for small projects. However, the model offers extensive customization options to adapt it to different project sizes and requirements.

Pragmatic adjustments can include:

Simplification of documentation for smaller teams

Partial integration of agile methods (e.g., iterative development with regular reviews)

Use of software tools to automate processes

In many companies, the V-Model XT is therefore used in a hybrid form – with fixed structural guidelines for critical processes and more flexible methods for faster development steps.

The V-Model XT may be challenging to implement, but it offers unparalleled traceability and security. With the right adjustments, it can also be used for smaller or more dynamic projects.

With Projektron BCS, you can seamlessly implement the V-Model XT in practice – digitally, transparently, and efficiently. The project management software supports all phases of the V-Model XT: from requirements definition and verification to maintenance. Thanks to structured workflows, flexible planning functions, and integrated documentation, you always have a clear overview – even in complex system development projects.

Tailoring and structured planning: Set up V-Model XT projects flexibly

With Projektron BCS, you can tailor the V-Model XT to your individual project requirements. Project characteristics, process modules, and results can be structured according to your requirements – from the outset or dynamically during the course of the project. Tailoring is carried out using configurable workflows, templates, and approval processes.

• Tailoring through configurable workflows: BCS maps the V-Model XT in a structured manner – with project phases, roles, and review steps. Changes during the course of the project can also be mapped flexibly.
• Work breakdown structure and templates: Start with a clear structure – including milestones, dependencies, and responsibilities.
• Automated approval processes: Review and approval workflows can be defined individually and ensure compliance with formal requirements.

Integrated requirements and test management

The core of the V-Model XT – traceability between requirements and tests – can be implemented completely digitally with Projektron BCS. Avoid media breaks and ensure that every requirement is checked and documented:

• Central requirements management with change tracking, prioritization, and comment function
• Linking requirements and test cases for complete traceability
• Automatic test status tracking and clear display of test progress

Documentation, audit trails, and versioning

Whether for internal quality assurance or external audits, Projektron BCS offers audit-proof project documentation – automatically and up to date.

• Complete project history: Changes to requirements, tests, and documents are automatically versioned and documented.
• Central storage of all V-Model documents: Access test reports, product documents, and templates centrally – without isolated solutions.
• Audit and review reports at the touch of a button: Reports can be generated for each phase and each product, documenting the process progress according to V-Model XT.

Multi-project capability, resource planning, and controlling

Whether it's a single project or a project portfolio, Projektron BCS supports classic project management as well as complex multi-project scenarios.

• Planning of deadlines, expenses, resources, and costs
• Resource managementvia drag & drop, cross-project to-do lists, and capacity overviews
• Project controlling with reports, dashboards, and key figures

See for yourself and try Projektron BCS free of charge and with no obligation!

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The V-Model XT offers a proven and structured approach to software and system development, but it is not the only option. Depending on the type of project, company structure, and requirements, alternative or complementary approaches may be more appropriate. Agile methods such as Scrum and Kanban are particularly popular and offer advantages in some contexts that the V-Model XT alone cannot cover.

Comparison with agile methods (Scrum, Kanban)

While the V-Model XT follows a highly structured and documentation-driven approach, agile methods focus on flexibility and iterative development.

• Scrum: This framework divides development into fixed time periods (sprints) in which functioning product increments are created. In contrast to the V-Model XT, there are no fixed phases with linear dependencies – adjustments can be made at any time.
• Kanban: The focus here is on continuous improvement of the workflow. Tasks are visualized and prioritized on a Kanban board so that teams can react flexibly to changes.

A key difference between the V-Model XT and agile methods lies in their predictability: While the V-Model XT requires a clear structure and predefined requirements, agile methods are particularly advantageous when requirements change frequently during the course of a project. However, in highly regulated industries or for safety-critical projects (e.g., in medical technology or the automotive industry), it may be necessary to retain documentation and verification processes from the V-Model XT.

Hybrid models for greater flexibility

Many companies are turning to hybrid models to combine the strengths of both approaches. These models combine elements of the V-Model XT with agile methods in various ways:

• Agile development within the V-Model XT phases: For example, the design and implementation phase can be carried out iteratively using Scrum, while verification and validation continue to follow the classic V-Model XT.
• Parallel use depending on project type: Companies can switch between agile and classic approaches depending on project requirements or structure different areas of the company differently.
• Scaled agile models with formal documentation: Frameworks such as SAFe (Scaled Agile Framework) or LeSS (Large Scale Scrum) make it possible to combine agile methods with formal documentation and traceability requirements.

This hybrid approach combines the advantages of the V-Model XT – in particular traceability and quality assurance – with the flexibility of agile methods. This can be a useful solution, especially in dynamic projects with regulatory requirements.

V-Model XT and Scrum – integration of both approaches

Although the document-centric V-Model XT and the lightweight Scrum appear incompatible at first glance, integration is possible under certain conditions. The basis for this is iterative-incremental project execution, which the V-Model XT only allows for certain strategies (e.g., prototypical system development).

Key integration points

1. Integration of V-Model XT products into Scrum's Definition of Done.
2. Application of Scrum at different subsystem levels within system development.
3. Adaptation of role models, as Scrum sprints and the release cycles of the V-Model XT do not directly correspond: The Scrum Master additionally assumes the role of Quality Manager. The Product Owner assumes the role of Project Manager and the AG/AN interface. Product Owners at all levels synchronize progress and represent customer requirements between the levels.

V-Model XT and Automotive SPICE – competition or complement?

Alongside V-Model XT, Automotive SPICE (ASPICE) is another important standard in software and system development, particularly in the automotive industry. But how do the two models differ, and can they even be combined?

Differences between V-Model XT and Automotive SPICE

The V-Model XT is a process model that describes how projects should be structured. Automotive SPICE, on the other hand, is a maturity model that measures how well certain development processes are implemented. ASPICE places particular emphasis on quality, process control, and continuous improvement.

Yes! In practice, both models often complement each other:

The V-Model XT can be used as a structured process model to meet ASPICE requirements. The individual development phases of the V-Model XT can be aligned with the process areas from ASPICE.

ASPICE provides a basis for evaluating the quality of V-Model XT processes. Companies can check whether their development processes meet ASPICE levels and thus drive improvements.

Tools such as Projektron BCS help to implement both standards. With a central platform for requirements, tests, traceability, and workflows, both V-Model XT phases and ASPICE specifications can be efficiently controlled.

For automotive suppliers who want to meet regulatory requirements and improve their process quality, a combination of V-Model XT and ASPICE can therefore be a sensible strategy.

At BURGER ENGINEERING, classic systems engineering meets agile development. In regulated industries such as the automotive industry, it is essential to effectively combine proven process models such as the V-model with industry-specific standards such as Automotive SPICE. BURGER ENGINEERING achieves this combination with the help of Projektron BCS – without media discontinuity and with complete traceability.

In particular, the ability to combine classic planning structures with agile elements helps the development team implement complex projects—for example, when hardware and software development must be parallelized or separated by quality gates. Projektron BCS not only enables model-based mapping of the project structure, but also supports standard-compliant documentation with automated checklists, customized reports, and real-time time tracking—a decisive advantage in A-SPICE projects.

Complete transparency in collaboration with customers, automated quotation creation, and ongoing project monitoring make BCS the central tool for cross-method project management at BURGER ENGINEERING – from requirements analysis to testing.

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Choosing the right approach to software and system development is crucial to the success of a project. The V-Model XT has proven itself over many years as the standard for structured and documentation-driven development, especially in safety-critical and regulatory projects.

However, in dynamic or creative projects where requirements are frequently adjusted, the V-Model XT can be perceived as too rigid. Hybrid models or purely agile approaches are a good alternative here.

Software development is constantly changing, and the V-Model XT is no exception.

Some developments and trends are already foreseeable:

Further integration with agile methods: Hybrid models will become even more important in the future as more and more companies combine classic and agile approaches.

Automation through AI and digital tools: Through the use of modern software solutions, many processes of the V-Model XT – in particular documentation, verification, and test management – can be increasingly automated.

Cloud-based and networked development: Digitalization enables even better collaboration across locations, making the application of the V-Model XT more flexible and efficient.

Regulatory adjustments: Especially in highly regulated industries, the V-Model XT could be further developed to meet new standards and security requirements.

The V-Model XT remains an important standard that will continue to be indispensable in certain areas in the future. Companies that combine it in a targeted manner with modern methods and support it with suitable software solutions can maximize its benefits while maintaining the flexibility required in today's fast-paced IT world.