What is the difference between verification and validation in the context of medical device development, and why are both important?

Verification is confirmation of meeting specified requirements for a device (i.e. has the device been made correctly) whereas validation is confirmation of meeting a specific intended use or application (i.e. does the device do what it is meant to do).

Verification and validation are both important throughout the conformity assessment process to ensure a complete understanding of the device, in addition to demonstrating a robust quality management system.