Why is SQA independence important?
“SQA independence” is simply the concept that an auditor cannot audit his/her boss effectively (and keep his/her job). In order for the SQA people to coach, review, and audit effectively they must not be fearful of repercussions from their boss. If the SQA person works for the project manager or director and that person is part of the problem the SQA person may be too intimidated or be motivated to overlook some things. Either situation is not good for the organization or the quality of its products. If management believes in the value of a strong SQA to the organization, it will require that the SQA persons have a chain of command that is separate from those being coached and audited. I have often seen this done effectively by having the SQA coaches of one group perform audits on the projects of another group to which they are external.
