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Keeping track of project requirements and deliverables can be one of the most challenging components of managing a project—that’s where a requirements traceability matrix can come in handy. Read on to learn more about what a requirements traceability matrix (RTM) is and what makes it a valuable project tool.
Requirements Traceability Matrix (RTM) Definition & Free Template Download
A requirements traceability matrix or RTM is a document that provides accountability to project requirements by mapping out the relationship between requirements and project work.
The RTM proves that predetermined project requirements are met while providing a record of any testing, issues, and completed items. By using an RTM, teams ensure that test cases are aligned with the needs of the project.
What is traceability?
Traceability is the foundational component of an RTM. This project management term refers to the ability to trace or map something, in this case, individual requirements within a larger project lifecycle. Traceability tracks project requirements, their status towards completion, and a record of each test that has been run for each requirement.
Read more: What is Project Management?
Who Uses an RTM?
RTMs are almost exclusively used by software developers, product teams, and others with highly complex or regulated project needs. One of the main goals of this type of traceability matrix is to trace requirement tests, which is a more specific need for teams creating products such as software and hardware. While a more general project does typically track project requirements or deliverables, the purpose of an RTM is more geared toward the needs of a technical team that needs to track and test specific features.
For example, an RTM for a software development team is expected to include heavy details about software testing, issues, bugs, and features to compare product requirements to the sprint backlog. RTMs also help technical teams meet the needs of external stakeholders and clients while communicating with them that those needs have been recorded and met.
However, for a less technical project, teams sometimes create a much more simplified list that focuses strictly on tracking each team member’s contributions or deliverables, though it would not be considered an RTM specifically.
What Are the Advantages of Using RTM?
There are numerous benefits that an RTM provides throughout the project lifecycle:
- Accountability: RTMs help provide accountability to the initial proposal and project terms, making it easier to track requirements and their status against overall project completion.
- Individual workloads: Because RTMs include information about who requested specific requirements and who is tasked with completing them, it provides additional clarity on individual contributions and workloads.
- Project progress: Individual requirements, and their status towards completion, are tracked through the RTM, highlighting the status of the project towards competition and estimating the project timeline and likelihood of staying on track.
- Client reassurance: RTMs create a clear record of client requests, reassuring them that their requests and needs are being met and documented thoroughly.
- Simplified troubleshooting: If issues arise throughout the project lifecycle, the RTM provides a baseline of information for teams to use to troubleshoot failed tests or identify any missing features that should be considered.
- Compliance: In hyper-regulated industries, RTMs help ensure compliance not only with client and project needs but also with legal guidelines and regulatory requirements.
Requirements Traceability Matrix Downloadable Template
Tips for Completing an Requirements Traceability Matrix
Whether you’re just beginning to draft out a template for your team’s project RTM or have begun filling in essential information, here are top tips to follow to get the most out of the RTM:
- Ensure clear expectations: Often, the most important work when utilizing an RTM comes before the matrix itself is even set up. Before you record any requirements within the matrix, make sure that the project team and any internal or external stakeholders are in alignment by meeting to discuss expectations and requirements.
- Choose your preferred method: Some teams choose to use RTM software to harness the power of a traceability matrix, whereas some teams prefer a spreadsheet style or even an old-school paper format. Consider which route is best for your team before diving in.
- Make it your own: While all RTMs need to include a few essential components, you have the option to customize it to fit the needs of your team. Including color coding and labels is more than appropriate to help your team stay organized and make the most out of the matrix.
