An artifact is a work product that stores, describes, or supports information within a project.
Artifacts can include requirements, models, diagrams, test cases, source code, decision records, and architecture documents. Therefore, they help teams document results and communicate decisions.
Teams often connect artifacts through traceability links. For example, a test case can verify a requirement. Likewise, a software component can implement a requirement. As a result, teams can follow information from its source to design, implementation, and testing.
Artifacts may also show dependencies, conflicts, refinements, or responsibilities. However, teams should use only the relationship types that support the project.
Well-managed artifacts improve traceability, consistency, collaboration, and change control.
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