Requirement Traceability Matrix (RTM)
A Requirement Traceability Matrix (RTM) is a document that maps requirements to test artifacts (test scenarios, test cases, defects) to ensure complete requirement coverage.
RTM answers: “Are all requirements tested, and is anything missed?”
1. Definition
A Requirement Traceability Matrix (RTM) is a document that maps requirements to test artifacts (test scenarios, test cases, defects) to ensure complete requirement coverage.
RTM answers: “Are all requirements tested, and is anything missed?”
2. Purpose of RTM
- Ensure 100% requirement coverage
- Track testing progress per requirement
- Identify missing or untested requirements
- Support audits and compliance
- Help assess impact of requirement changes
3. Types of Traceability
3.1 Forward Traceability
- Requirement → Test Case
- Ensures all requirements are tested
3.2 Backward Traceability
- Test Case → Requirement
- Ensures no unnecessary test cases exist
4. RTM Components
A typical RTM includes:
- Requirement ID
- Requirement Description
- Test Scenario ID
- Test Case ID
- Execution Status
- Defect ID (if any)
5. Sample RTM (Conceptual)
| Req ID | Requirement | Test Case ID | Status | Defect ID |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| REQ-01 | User Login | TC-01, TC-02 | Pass | — |
| REQ-02 | Password Reset | TC-03 | Fail | BUG-101 |
6. Manual Tester’s Role
- Create RTM during test design
- Update RTM during execution
- Use RTM for coverage tracking
- Support impact analysis for changes
7. RTM vs Test Coverage
| Aspect | RTM | Test Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Requirement mapping | Testing extent |
| Granularity | Detailed | Summary |
8. When RTM Is Used
- During test planning
- During execution and reporting
- During audits or UAT sign-off
- When requirements change
9. Common Mistakes
- Not updating RTM regularly
- Missing defect linkage
- Incomplete requirement mapping
10. Interview-Ready Answers
Short answer:
RTM maps requirements to test cases to ensure complete coverage.
Detailed answer:
Requirement Traceability Matrix ensures that every requirement is validated through testing and helps track coverage, defects, and changes.
11. Key Takeaway
RTM ensures nothing required is left untested and nothing unnecessary is tested.