Data Traceability
The ability to track and trace any piece of product information (requirement, design decision, CAM plan, field failure) back to its source and forward to all downstream artifacts. Foundation of engineering change and compliance.
Why it matters
Regulatory industries (aerospace, medical, automotive) require proof that every requirement is traced to design, test, and field verification. Without traceability, recalls and fines result. Traceability also accelerates change impact analysis.
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Cite this definition
Finocchiaro, Michael. “Data Traceability.” DemystifyingPLM PLM Glossary, 2026, https://www.demystifyingplm.com/glossary/data-traceability