Roles and Responsibility Matrix (RACI Chart)
The RACI model clearly lays out roles and responsibilities for any activity or group of activities. Here are the basic elements of a RACI model –
- Job functions or titles are noted across the top, such as “IT,” “Human Resources,” “Project Manager,” etc.
- Tasks or responsibilities are noted down the left hand side, such as “Conduct weekly communication meeting with team,” or “Analyze prior-month performance and send out summary the first week of each month.”
- The cells inside the RACI model or chart are filled in based on the following criteria –
R = Responsible = The person who does the work. There must be one “R” on every row. In rare cases you may have more than one R, but it is discouraged. Instead, one can use a lower case “r” for individuals who have a support role or responsibility for a subset of tasks in a larger activity.
A = Accountable = The person ultimately accountable for the work or decision being made. “The buck stops here” Use this letter are particularly important when a key decision or task is at hand. There can be only one “A’s” in each row.
C = Consulted = Anyone who must be consulted with or add input on issue prior to a decision being made and/or the task being completed. There can be as many “C’s” as are appropriate in each row.
I = Informed = Anyone who must be informed when a decision is made or work completed. There can be as many “I’s” as are appropriate in each row
