When modifications are made to a software system, which of the following tools is helpful...

A requirements traceability matrix is the best tool for determining appropriate verification and validation tasks after software modifications. It links requirements to design elements, code modules, test cases, defects, and other lifecycle work products. When a change is made, the matrix helps identify which requirements, components, interfaces, and tests may be affected. This supports impact analysis, regression test selection, validation planning, and change control. An affinity diagram organizes related ideas or issues, but it does not provide requirement-to-test traceability. A Pareto chart ranks categories by frequency or impact. A cause and effect diagram helps analyze possible root causes. For selecting verification and validation activities after modifications, traceability is the most directly useful method.

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