Which method of traceability would identify issues related to gold-plating?

Backward traceability is the method that allows for identifying issues related to gold-plating. Gold-plating refers to the practice of adding extra features or enhancements to a project that were not originally requested or required, which can lead to increased costs, project delays, and scope creep.

Backward traceability helps in understanding the initial requirements and how they have been deviated from during the development process. By looking back at the requirements, project managers and stakeholders can evaluate whether the additional features added were part of the agreed-upon specifications. This analysis is crucial as it ensures that any changes made are aligned with the original goals and objectives of the project.

The significance of backward traceability lies in its ability to connect issues back to their source, making it easier to pinpoint where unnecessary additions were introduced. This promotes better project control and helps maintain focus on delivering what was originally intended, thereby mitigating the risk of gold-plating.

Forward traceability, on the other hand, tracks the progression of requirements through to implementation but does not necessarily highlight issues with exceeding scope. Bidirectional traceability encompasses both forward and backward traceability and while it provides a comprehensive view, it does not specifically target the identification of gold-plating. Change impact analysis is focused on evaluating the