Software Quality Assurance is defined as a planned and systematic approach to the evaluation of the quality of, and adherence to, software product standards, processes, and procedures. Software QA includes the process of ensuring that standards and procedures are established and are followed throughout the software life cycle. Compliance with agreed standards and procedures is evaluated through process monitoring, product evaluation, and audits. Software development and control processes should include quality assurance approval points (or Quality Gates), where a Software QA evaluation of the product may be done in relation to the applicable standards or best practices.