RACI Matrix

A RACI matrix is way used to clearly define roles and responsibilities to team. RACI matrix was created around 1950’s and it was also known by names “Responsibility Attribution Matrix” or “Decision Rights Matrix”. The acronym RACI stands for “Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, and Informed”. Column headings are filled in with one of the four RACI letters to indicate the level of involvement for each team member. Where as row headings represent team members with their roles.

The person who is “Responsible” for the task is the one who will do the work or ensure the task is done correctly and on time. Example- business analyst, etc.

The person who is “Accountable” for the task is ultimately responsible for the task’s completion. This person is the one who has the final say on whether the task is completed or not. They are the ones who are responsible for ensuring that the task is completed on time, to the required standard and within budget. Example- project managers, managers, etc.

“Consulted” are people who provide input and feedback on the task. They are the ones who give their opinion on how the task should be done and what needs to be done to complete it. Example- subject matter experts, client, etc.

“Informed” are people who need to be kept informed of the task’s progress. They are the ones who are not directly involved in the task but need to know what is happening. For example- senior manager, client, sponsors, etc.

Sometimes RACI is noted as RASCI, where “S” stands for “Supported”. These are the people who supports the project indirectly like HR department, IT department, Clerks, etc.

This helps to ensure that everyone knows what they are supposed to be doing and when they are supposed to be doing it. It also helps to avoid confusion and conflicts within the team, which can lead to delays and mistakes.

Another advantage of using a RACI matrix is that it helps to ensure that all stakeholders are kept informed of the task’s progress. This is important because it helps to ensure that everyone is aware of what is happening and when it is happening. This helps to ensure that the project runs smoothly and that everyone is aware of any issues or problems that may arise.

This technique should be used during stakeholders’ analysis which is before requirements gathering process. This helps us to know who is our key stakeholder or from whom we could get the required information. It is widely used technique as compared to other techniques.

RACI matrix is not only used in project management but also in other management areas like business process management, IT service management, etc. It’s not only about the team members: RACI matrix can also be used to identify the roles and responsibilities of external stakeholders such as suppliers, customers, and regulatory bodies. It’s not only a one-time exercise: RACI matrix should be regularly reviewed and updated throughout the project to ensure that roles and responsibilities are aligned with the changing project requirements.

In conclusion, a RACI matrix is a valuable technique for project management. It helps to clearly define and roles and responsibilities to team members for specific tasks.