What is the primary purpose of a requirements traceability matrix?

The primary purpose of a requirements traceability matrix is to document and track the relationships between requirements and project artifacts. This tool plays a crucial role in ensuring that all requirements are accounted for throughout the project lifecycle. It links requirements to their sources, such as business needs or stakeholder requests, and helps in verifying that each requirement is addressed in design, development, testing, and implementation phases.

By maintaining a traceability matrix, project teams can monitor the status of each requirement, ensuring that no requirement is overlooked and that they align with project objectives. This traceability also aids in impact analysis when requirements change, allowing teams to identify which project artifacts may be affected. Thus, it serves as a foundational element for managing requirements effectively and is vital for ensuring quality and compliance throughout the project.