IEEE 15026-4-2013

15026-4-2013 is a superseded standard for computing and processing that focuses on Part 4: Assurance in the Life Cycle. It addresses how assurance is considered across the life cycle of a system or product, helping organizations define confidence in technical outcomes, documentation, and controls. For teams working with complex computing systems, 15026-4-2013 can support more consistent lifecycle planning, review, and verification where assurance evidence matters.

About 15026-4-2013

This technical document sits within the 15026 series and is concerned with assurance as a life-cycle activity rather than a single design step. In practice, that means attention to how requirements, implementation, verification, and maintenance contribute to confidence in the overall system. 15026-4-2013 is relevant where computing and processing projects need traceable evidence that specified assurances have been addressed in a structured way. Its superseded status means it is mainly of reference value, but it remains useful for understanding the series’ approach.

Where is 15026-4-2013 used?

This standard is most relevant in computing and processing environments where lifecycle assurance must be managed formally, such as software-intensive systems, control platforms, and other engineered digital solutions. It may be used by engineering teams preparing assurance cases, system documentation, or internal compliance records. It is also useful in procurement and contract work when a project needs a defined reference for how assurance activities should be planned and reviewed across development, integration, and operation.

Importance in practice

The practical value of 15026-4-2013 lies in helping organizations show that assurance is not an afterthought. By linking assurance to the life cycle, it supports clearer design control, better review of evidence, and more consistent expectations between suppliers and buyers. That can reduce risk in complex computing projects, especially where safety, reliability, or operational confidence depends on documented process discipline. For teams comparing legacy standards, it also helps maintain continuity in technical and compliance planning.

• Part 4: Assurance in the Life Cycle
• Computing and processing context
• Life-cycle assurance planning
• Documentation and evidence review
• Superseded reference standard