By Will Killin
A green dashboard is a claim, not evidence
A status colour summarises judgement. What criteria produced it, who assessed the evidence and what exceptions remain? Technical release readiness may differ from business operational readiness. The board needs to know which question the assurance answers.
Trace claims to their basis
Select the assertions carrying most weight and trace them to records, results and owners. Is the evidence current, representative and sufficient? In my previous payments review, the evidence did not substantiate the claimed reduction in risk. The review did not establish that the testing itself was insufficient.
Examine dependencies and exclusions
In an illustrative release, completed system tests would not establish that operational staff can handle exceptions. Ask what lies outside the assessment, who owns dependencies and what supports their readiness. Reviewers should explain sampling and access limits.
Keep the decision with its owner
Distinguish supported conclusions, gaps and conditions for proceeding. Further evidence or a changed plan may be needed. Review cannot guarantee a trouble-free launch or substitute for statutory audit, certification or regulatory approval. Prior implementation involvement must be considered before claiming independence.
Read the relevant account of my previous work.
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