Scope and Quality · tool 5 of 9
Requirements Traceability Matrix
Requirements Traceability Matrix: links each requirement to its reason, its deliverable and its test.
Best for: Regulated or complex work · Time: Ongoing
Domain: Scope · Focus area: Planning
How it works
A table that shows where each requirement came from and how it’s proved. It catches gaps, such as a requirement with no test, and gold plating, such as a feature with no requirement.
- One row per requirement.
- Columns for source, deliverable, test and status.
- Keep it light on small projects.
How to apply it
- Number each requirement.
- Record its source and business objective.
- Link it to design and test items.
- Check for blanks before each gate.
In practice
R-14 “export to PDF”, from Finance, delivered in module 3, tested by T-52, passed.
Pro tip
Any blank cell is a question worth asking.
Use it
Quick check
A feature appears in the product but has no requirement. What is that a sign of?
Sources
- PMBOK® Guide, 8th edition, and The Standard for Project Management (PMI, 2025)
Last reviewed 2026-11-02 against the PMBOK® Guide, 8th edition · Practitioner review pending · How this guide is made