Which technique focuses on identifying root causes of defects?

The technique that focuses on identifying root causes of defects is root cause analysis. This method involves systematically examining the underlying issues that lead to the manifestation of defects in software products. By digging deeper into why defects occur, root cause analysis helps teams understand the processes, tools, or requirements that may be contributing to issues, allowing them to implement effective solutions to prevent recurrence.

Root cause analysis is critical in Agile environments where continuous improvement is a key principle. By addressing the root causes rather than merely fixing symptoms, teams can enhance their overall quality assurance processes and improve their software delivery.

Other options, while relevant in various contexts, do not specifically target the identification of root causes. Defect tracking focuses on logging and monitoring defects throughout the development process but does not analyze their underlying causes. Impact analysis evaluates the potential effects of changes in a project rather than delving into why defects occur. Requirement gathering involves collecting and specifying what the software should achieve but does not engage with the identification of defects or their origins.