Compliance Testing vs Conformance Testing

John Spacey, updated on January 18, 2017

Compliance testing is verification that a product, process, system or output is in compliance with laws and regulations.

Conformance testing is verification that a product, process, system or output conforms to a standard, specification or contract.

The Difference

Compliance testing specifically relates to laws and regulations. Conformance testing is a broader term that includes verification that projects and operations conform to certifications, standards and contracts such as service level agreements.

In practice, there is significant overlap between compliance and conformance testing. It is common for conformance to a standard to ensure compliance with the law. That is to say that standards may be designed to greatly exceed basic legal requirements. For example, a device that conforms to rigorous electrical safety standards will generally comply with electrical safety codes.

Compliance Testing vs Conformance Testing
	Compliance Testing	Conformance Testing
Definition	Verification that a product, process, system or output is in compliance with laws and regulations.	Verification that a product, process, system or output conforms to a standard, specification or contract.