Back to Requirements Traceability and Monitoring

Requirements Traceability Matrix (RTM)

5 minutes 5 Questions

The Requirements Traceability Matrix (RTM) is a fundamental tool in business analysis used to ensure that all project requirements are accounted for throughout the project lifecycle. It is essentially a document that maps and traces user requirements with test cases. The primary purpose of the RTM is to ensure that every requirement defined for a system is tested in the test protocols. In practice, the RTM is a grid that links requirements from their origin through to the deliverables that satisfy them, encompassing design specifications, development artifacts, testing plans, and implementation status. By maintaining this traceability, project teams can verify that all requirements are addressed without omission. The RTM helps in identifying the impact of project requirements, which is crucial when changes occur. It allows for forward traceability (tracing requirements to design and implementation) and backward traceability (from end deliverables back to requirements), ensuring that the final product aligns with the initial requirements. This alignment is critical for meeting stakeholder expectations and achieving project objectives. Furthermore, the RTM facilitates effective communication among stakeholders, project managers, developers, and testers by providing a clear roadmap of how requirements are being fulfilled. It aids in quality assurance processes by ensuring that each requirement is tested and validated, thus reducing the risk of defects and rework. In essence, the RTM is not just a documentation tool but a dynamic instrument that supports project governance, scope management, and change management throughout the project lifecycle.

Test mode:
Start practice test
PMI-PBA - Requirements Traceability and Monitoring Example Questions

Test your knowledge of Amazon Simple Storage Service (S3)

Question 1

During the execution phase of a global banking software project, several stakeholders report that compliance requirements are not properly tracked. Which columns in the Requirements Traceability Matrix (RTM) would be most valuable to address their concerns?

Correct Answer: Compliance Status, Test Cases, and Verification Methods

In a banking software project where compliance requirements tracking is a concern, the most valuable RTM columns would be 'Compliance Status, Test Cases, and Verification Methods.' Here's why: The correct answer focuses on three critical elements for compliance tracking: - Compliance Status: Tracks whether requirements meet regulatory standards - Test Cases: Documents how compliance requirements are tested - Verification Methods: Specifies how compliance is verified and validated Why other options are incorrect: Project Timeline and Resource Allocation focus on project management aspects rather than compliance tracking. Business Requirements and Technical Specifications are input elements but don't specifically address compliance monitoring. Stakeholder Communication and Risk Assessment are important but don't directly track compliance requirements. In banking software, regulatory compliance is crucial, and the selected columns provide clear traceability of compliance requirements, their testing, and verification - essential for stakeholder assurance and regulatory audits.

Question 2

In a Requirements Traceability Matrix (RTM), what column should be included to best manage inter-dependencies between requirements?

Correct Answer: Related Requirements ID

In a Requirements Traceability Matrix (RTM), 'Related Requirements ID' is the most appropriate column to manage inter-dependencies between requirements. Here's why: The 'Related Requirements ID' column allows project teams to: - Track relationships and dependencies between different requirements - Identify how changes to one requirement might impact other related requirements - Ensure complete requirement coverage - Facilitate impact analysis Why other options are less suitable: 'Historical Requirements Documentation' focuses on past versions rather than current relationships between requirements. 'Requirement Implementation Timeline and Resource Allocation Details' deals with execution aspects rather than requirement relationships. 'Business Value Rating and Priority Score' addresses importance and prioritization but doesn't help track dependencies between requirements.

Question 3

In a highly regulated aerospace project, the Requirements Traceability Matrix (RTM) indicates that requirement R-105 has no test cases linked to it. What does this scenario most likely represent?

Correct Answer: A verification gap that could lead to compliance issues

The missing link between a requirement and test cases in an RTM represents a verification gap - a serious issue in aerospace projects where every requirement must be verified. This is significant because: - Aerospace is highly regulated and requires complete verification coverage - Each requirement must be testable and verified - Missing test cases mean no way to prove requirement implementation - This could cause compliance issues during audits or certification Why other options are incorrect: - Needing stakeholder approval would be documented differently, not as a missing test case link - A placeholder requirement would be marked as such in the RTM, not simply left untested - Non-functional requirements still need defined verification methods, even if through expert judgment In aerospace projects, a missing test case link is a serious verification gap that must be addressed to maintain compliance with regulatory standards.

Go Premium

PMI Professional in Business Analysis Preparation Package (2024)

  • 3015 Superior-grade PMI Professional in Business Analysis practice questions.
  • Accelerated Mastery: Deep dive into critical topics to fast-track your mastery.
  • Unlock Effortless PMI-PBA preparation: 5 full exams.
  • 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed: Full refund with no questions if unsatisfied.
  • Bonus: If you upgrade now you get upgraded access to all courses
  • Risk-Free Decision: Start with a 7-day free trial - get premium features at no cost!
More Requirements Traceability Matrix (RTM) questions
70 questions (total)
Start 70 question test