A Formal Review is a structured evaluation process in software development. It follows a defined procedure and produces documented results.
Characteristics:
1. Planned in advance
2. Follow specific steps
3. Involve multiple reviewers
4. Produce written documentation
5. Often used for critical or complex components
Steps:
1. Planning
2. Kick-off
3. Individual preparation
4. Review meeting
5. Rework
6. Follow-up
Formal reviews help improve software quality, identify defects early and ensure compliance with standards and requirements.