What is the main function of the Requirements Traceability Matrix (RTM)?

The main function of the Requirements Traceability Matrix (RTM) is to ensure that all requirements are linked to their corresponding project deliverables and can be tracked throughout the project lifecycle. This tool serves as a vital reference point, allowing project teams to confirm that every requirement identified is addressed in the project implementation. It provides a clear pathway from requirements through design and development to testing and deployment, ensuring that all stakeholder needs are met and that no requirements are overlooked.

By maintaining this traceability, the RTM aids in validating that the final product aligns with the initial requirements, facilitating better project management and quality assurance practices. This prevents scope creep and helps teams manage changes effectively, as any modification to requirements can be traced back to the affected deliverables.

The other choices relate to different aspects of project management. Detailing technical specifications focuses more on the design and architecture of the system rather than requirement tracking. Monitoring budgetary expenditures concerns financial management within the project, and assessing team member performance is related to human resource management. However, none of these functions directly relate to the core purpose of the Requirements Traceability Matrix, which emphasizes the tracking and linking of requirements to deliverables.