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Key takeaways

Successful project management depends on a team-wide understanding of roles and responsibilities. Using a RACI matrix to assign and define each role is a great way to keep a project on track and positioned for success.

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How Does a RACI Chart Help Project Managers?

Project managers use RACI charts to keep track of team roles and relay those responsibilities to the larger team. The matrix defines clear roles and responsibilities for individual team members across the various phases of the project, breaking each role down into four types of designation: those who are Responsible and Accountable for project deliverables, those who should be Consulted as work begins, and stakeholders who need to be Informed of ongoing progress, roadblocks, and updates. 

Read more: Project Management Phases

RACI Matrix Definitions 

Responsible.

The individual(s) with responsibility for the task or deliverable is typically responsible for developing and completing the project deliverables themselves. The responsible parties are typically hands-on team members who make direct contributions toward the completion of the project. The responsible team is comprised of the project’s “doers”, working hands-on to ensure that each deliverable is completed. 

Some examples of responsible parties are:

• Project Managers
• Business Analysts
• Graphic Designers
• Copywriters

Accountable

Accountable parties ensure accountability to project deadlines, and ultimately, accountability to project completion. This group frequently also falls under the informed category.

Some examples of accountable parties are:

• Product Owners
• Signature Authorities
• Business Owners
• Key Stakeholders

Consulted individuals’ opinions are crucial, and their feedback needs to be considered at every step of the game. These individuals provide guidance that is often a prerequisite to other project tasks, for example, providing legal guidance on a project throughout the process. If you are working on new product development or expansion, this could essentially be the entire organization.

Some examples of consulted parties are:

• Legal Experts
• Information Security and Cybersecurity Experts
• Compliance Consultants

Informed persons are those that need to stay in the loop of communication throughout the project. These individuals do not have to be consulted or be a part of the decision-making, but they should be made aware of all project updates. Typically, this party are business owners or stakeholders that are more interested in viewing the project at a 30,000-foot view.  Keep this group on your cc list for awareness of topics, decisions, and progress – that includes making them part of the initial project kickoff and project demos as optional attendees. This group often also falls under the accountable group.

Some examples of informed parties are:

• Project Committee Members
• External Stakeholders

Read more: DACI vs RACI Model Guide

Why Are RACI Roles Important?

RACI roles provide a sense of organization and clarity for teams that are looking to divide roles and keep team members accountable for their contributions. Considering that 27% of projects go over budget, for reasons like scope creep and lack of defined roles, RACI roles help position a project for success and avoid common pitfalls. 

Moreover, RACI roles help ensure that communication between all roles is ongoing. When you consider that nearly half of all project spending is at risk of being wasted due to a lack of effective team-based communication, it becomes all that more important to prioritize. Ultimately, teams who prioritize communication and well-defined roles are better off, and RACI roles help teams achieve that goal faster – while providing accountability for each team member’s unique contributions to the success of the project. 

Read More: Top 10 Main Causes of Project Failure

How to Create a RACI Matrix 

If you’re looking to implement a RACI matrix as part of your team’s project planning process, take these steps to create a RACI matrix.

Ensure that you have a thorough understanding of the project and its demands before outlining any further steps by communicating with key stakeholders and decision-makers.

Determine the list of key activities and deliverables from the director of program management or other leadership. 

Determine who is needed to be a part of the project or initiative.

Determine the project roles and responsible job titles and persons for each activity and deliverable.

Hold review sessions with key members of the team for alignment, and if you haven’t already, host a kickoff meeting with the entirety of the team and key stakeholders to unveil the matrix, address questions, and more. 

If the project has already started, it’s not too late to implement a RACI matrix.

• Outline the story. Using research from multiple sources, do a, b, c, and d.
• Utilize steps 2 and 3 (shown above). Ensure the right groups are assigned and engaged. 
• Hold a review session. Ensure that the team acknowledges and discusses the plan and the roles assigned.

Read more: 8 Factors That Lead to Successful Projec ts

Examples of a RACI Matrix

As shown above, a RACI matrix helps break down what roles individuals will play as work is carried out and to what extent they will be involved in the project overall. The horizontal axis represents each person on the project team and the vertical axis represents each task.

Each square of the matrix represents an individual, a task, and that individual’s role within the project, either responsible, accountable, consulted, or informed. In this situation, for example, the project manager is accountable for accessing risk, defining performance requirements, creating designs, executing construction, and approving construction work. However, they are only informed about approving construction work and defining functional and aesthetic needs.

Read more: Understanding Different Types of Stakeholders and Their Roles

Our FREE Downloadable RACI Matrix Template

Who creates the raci matrix.

The RACI matrix — sometimes called RACI model, RACI diagram, or simply just RAC — is created by the project manager at the start of the project as a key part of establishing the initial human resources planning for the project. Because miscommunication is a common threat to any project, RACI charts are a great asset to teams dealing with any type of project, from very simple projects to extremely complex ones. 

Common Mistakes When Creating a RACI Matrix

• Failure to plan ahead: Utilizing a RACI matrix should not be your first step in project planning. Having a fully assembled project team and at least a general idea of a task list and project plans is a better place to start before preparing a matrix.
• Working with too large a team: A RACI matrix is likely not the best bet for a large team, as it will make the matrix hard to understand and overly complex.
• Not communicating with the project team: A RACI matrix should help organize tasks and responsibilities that have already been introduced to the project team – no one likes to be blindsided. Be sure to host a kickoff meeting with the team first before creating a RACI matrix.

Frequently Asked Questions

Implementing a RACI matrix takes more than just a few emails and sporadic conversations – it takes consistent communication and planning. You should host a kickoff meeting to introduce the matrix to the team and make a plan to continue meeting at predetermined times throughout the project lifecycle. 

Here are a few more tips to keep in mind as you implement your RACI matrix within the team dynamic:

• Get everyone prepared. Send the document around to the meeting distribution as read-ahead material, requesting feedback if there are any major concerns. 
• Roll out each role for the team . During the meeting, conduct a review of the tasks and responsible parties. Do not rush through this review, but rather ensure enough time in your project kickoff for this important aspect. (Be certain to clarify the definitions of RACI to avoid ambiguity.)
• Consider changes and update accordingly. After the meeting, send out the notes documenting acceptance or updates to the RACI. In addition to sending out the notes, request any corrections within a reasonable yet defined timeframe. Clarify that if no changes are requested, each person is acknowledging their role and committing to the project tasks as outlined.
• Stay in touch. Consider a quick review with the entire team each quarter or every six months for longer projects to ensure it remains up-to-date and not simply another document in the repository but a relied-upon artifact.

As you implement the RACI matrix…

• Encourage teamwork and foster collaboration whenever possible.
• Don’t fear updates – make changes and adjustments as needed (but be sure to communicate those changes clearly to all parties).
• Earlier is better. Roll out your matrix plan to the team BEFORE you plan to implement it for the best results. 
• Have a clear-cut understanding of the project scope and how each role connects to the overall project goal.

For “Responsible” Parties:

• Make sure your project’s definition of Responsible is clear on who holds the “decider” role for the project or project phase’s completion, and what the dimensions of that responsibility will be.
• Ensure that all parties are aware of their role and responsibilities within the matrix.

For “Accountable” Parties: 

• When multiple Accountable team members must exist, use your definitions to make clear which individual is accountable for a given project element, and how that individual needs to interact with other Accountable team members.
• Ensure that there is only one “Accountable” party assigned per task.
• Be sure that the Accountable party has the authority and power to oversee the task as the accountable party.

For Consulted and Informed Parties: 

• Consulted parties are often high-level decision-makers with heavy schedules. Make sure you’re clear on their availability ahead of time.
• Similar to Consulted parties, Informed parties are often less hands-on and have less understanding of day-to-day project operations. As the project goes on, make sure to keep detailed notes to keep the Informed party up-to-date on key information. 
• Understand the ways that these parties like to communicate and create a plan to reach them early – whether that’s over phone calls, emails, video calls, or from within your project management system’s collaboration tools.
• Knowing the difference between who needs to be consulted versus informed can be a challenge if there is ambiguity about project roles. Consider what aspects of the project different team members need to know to do their jobs, and then bake those into your definitions.

RACI Matrix Pros & Cons

• Increased Engagement: RACI helps engage project participants in the project lifecycle. 
• Enhanced Project Planning: Project managers make project planning more organized, efficient, and detailed.
• Identifiable Improvement Opportunities: Areas of improvement are more easily identified.
• Easier Collaboration: Use of a RACI matrix creates a clear path for leadership to sign off on project steps, as project documentation in the RACI model is heavily emphasized.
• Better Communication: Improves overall group communication as a whole.
• Group Accountability: Assists groups, especially larger project teams, stay connected and accountable to their roles and project goals
• Limitations on Role Scope: The RACI model does not provide details on role scope, especially for responsible parties. These gaps in detail also affect other team roles, for example, another gap in a RACI is the determination of who is responsible for verifier and signatory.
• Limits on Task Details and Scope: While a RACI matrix can provide an overview of who is responsible for different tasks, it will not state what needs to be done.
• Not Aligned to the Agile Methodology: Project managers using an agile methodology like scrum may find it redundant since accountability, ownership, and ongoing communication is built into the scrum framework (i.e., product owner, scrum master, and daily standups with the team). Additionally, agile focuses on team-based delivery and accountability, while the RACI framework and alternatives focus on individual responsibility and autonomous accountability.

Read more: Top 10 Causes of Project Failure

Free RACI Matrix Templates

A number of project management software solutions include a native RACI matrix template. Here are just a few we’ve found:

Colorful RACI Chart Template

We love this template from Smartsheet because it’s colorful, thorough, and includes room for every party involved in the project. 

Pastel Colored RACI Matrix Template

This template from the Academy to Innovate HR is a great choice for project managers who want to organize their team roles with an easy-on-the-eyes chart that evolves beyond the simple spreadsheet. 

Simple RACI Chart from Clickup

These RACI templates from Clickup have enough variety to fit any of your project needs, but are simple enough for even beginner PMs to use.

Detailed RACI Matrix Template

This template is a great starter template for anyone looking to explore RACI charts in their project management strategy . As an added bonus – it comes with the RACI definitions already built in!

Excel-Based RACI Chart Template

Are you an Excel or Google Sheets user looking to take advantage of the RACI matrix? An Excel-formatted template from Project Management Docs can be just the solution for you. This template is a great template for users who want a chart that comes in a pre-formatted structure.

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How to Make a Responsibility Assignment Matrix for a Project (Template Included)

The most important resource you’ll employ to deliver the project is people. They have to fit into the schedule and maintain the project budget. Defining what their roles and responsibilities are when executing tasks and delivering on the project goals is an important part of controlling the project.

How can you coordinate all the people who are involved in a project so they know what they’re doing and don’t block others from doing what they are assigned? Using a responsibility assignment matrix can help. An assignment matrix gives your project a team that gets things done.

What is a Responsibility Assignment Matrix in Project Management?

A responsibility assignment matrix (RAM) is a project management chart used to identify and define the various people and organizations and outline each of their roles in working on tasks or delivering a part of the project.

Project managers use an assignment matrix to clarify what cross-functional teams do within the boundaries of the project and its numerous processes. Sometimes a responsibility assignment matrix is required when responding to a request for proposal (RFP).

The responsibility assignment matrix can also be called a RACI matrix, which stands for responsible, accountable, consulted and informed.

• Responsible: Notes who is responsible for executing the task, which is then assigned to them.
• Accountable: Notes who has decision-making authority and how that power is delegated throughout the project team.
• Consulted: Notes who is able to offer insight into the task, from team members to stakeholders.
• Informed: Notes who is updated on what in terms of progress and performance, as well as when and how this information is disseminated.

This creates a map of connections between activities and project team members. Depending on the size of the project, there can be several assignment matrices used for various project levels.

Why Create a Responsibility Assignment Matrix?

The assignment matrix identifies what everyone on the team is responsible for, which means not only what their duties are, but how they participate in the project. Some will have defined tasks, others will offer help with work, while there are some who are designated as decision-makers. These groups all have an identity and function within the project to help guide it towards a successful end.

Clear communication leads to more efficient projects. An assignment matrix facilitates better communication between team members and provides transparency by creating a system to make sure everyone is updated and always on the same page. Belaboring communications can bog down a project with too many pointless meetings and confusing interactions in which people try to understand what they’re supposed to be doing. Using the responsibility assignment matrix helps, but having project management software that connects teams in real-time is ideal.

ProjectManager manages project information by allowing teams to attach files directly to tasks, and our unlimited file storage keeps important project documents at your fingertips anywhere, anytime. Commenting on tasks can save time and tagging others in the project team creates a communication process that avoids the pitfalls of redundancies or unnecessary meetings.

When Should a Responsibility Assignment Matrix Be Created?

The responsibility assignment matrix would be created at the start of the project. You’d want to have everyone on the project team aware of where they stand in terms of their involvement before they start executing tasks.

As much as its use is a preventative measure, it can be used prescriptively. If you’re deep into the project and things are not moving as planned, there could be communication gridlock. If team members are not in the loop, or misconstrue what they’re supposed to be doing, using a responsibility assignment matrix might untie up those knots in the communication channel.

If there’s a problem with leadership overruling suggestions on how to advance the project and this is seen as a problem, it’s likely that the roles and responsibilities of the project team need refining. The responsibility assignment matrix defines who has authority to make decisions and using it or revisiting can determine if the right people are in that position.

In fact, any of the definitions might need reexamining at any phase in the project. Perhaps tasks are falling behind schedule. This could be because team members aren’t aware of what tasks they own. Anytime a delay occurs, returning to the assignment matrix is a good first step, even if you went through the process as you should during the planning stage of the project.

How to Create a Responsibility Assignment Matrix

The actual making of a responsibility assignment matrix is not as difficult as getting everyone on board with what their roles and responsibilities are.

Therefore, you want to include your team in the process, get their input and eventually buy-in without spending too much time and energy on the process. Follow these steps to make sure everyone is in agreement and you’ll have a successful responsibility assignment.

• Identify all the participants involved in the project, from team members to stakeholders and everyone in between.
• List all deliverables associated with the project. Use a work breakdown structure to make sure you don’t miss any.
• Meet with team members on how to execute the tasks to create the deliverables. Every task needs to be discussed in terms of the team’s responsibility and authority.
• Draft the responsibility assignment matrix using a table with the project tasks listed on the left-hand column. Across the top add the name of everyone in the project.
• Where the tasks meet the project team member, assign whether they’re responsible, accountable, consulted or informed.
• When completed, share the responsibility assignment matrix with the project team and stakeholders and hold a meeting if necessary to make sure everyone understands their part in the project. If you’re working in a shared space, print out a copy and post it.

Free Responsibility Assignment Matrix Template

Using a RACI template is a shortcut that sets up your team and the project for success. ProjectManager is more than an award-winning software that organizes tasks, teams and projects to streamline work and boost productivity, it’s also the online hub for all things project management.

Among the hundreds of blog posts, guidebooks and tutorial videos are dozens of free templates that can help you through every phase of your project’s life cycle. Using our free RACI template will help you guide all the project teams better, allowing them to know where they stand in relation to the project and what their level of responsibility and accountability is.

Use it at the start of the project to avoid delays and untangle any communicative knots that are preventing the project from progressing as planned. To keep your project on track, download our free RACI template and get a head start on building a workable responsibility assignment matrix.

Best Practices

Using our free RACI template is a good start, but you have to make sure you fill it in correctly. A responsibility assignment matrix is only as good as the effort put into creating it. Here are some best practices to apply when you’re in the process of building your assignment matrix.

• Involve the team: They’re the ones who will be executing the work. You want their input and buy-in to avoid any costly mistakes or time-consuming questions about what wasn’t made clear at the beginning of the project.
• Identify every single task: Identify all the tasks required to reach your final deliverable. Once you have that thorough list make sure that there is only one person on the team who is accountable.
• Update your RACI regularly: Make sure that each new one is clearly marked as the most current version and is distributed to everyone on the team. There will be times when you’ll want to revisit the responsibility assignment matrix or changes in personnel will require an edit.
• Share responsibility viably: One person shouldn’t have to shoulder the bulk of the responsibilities for the project and you want to give authority throughout the project team and not just among the very top management team.
• Optimize tasks: Managers can use the RACI matrix to see if too many team members have been assigned to a task. Maybe these workers could be spread out for greater productivity. There could be too many people listed as consulted, which slows down the process. The assignment matrix is endlessly useful.

How ProjectManager Helps You Manage Projects Better

ProjectManager is a cloud-based tool that connects everyone in real-time to facilitate planning, monitoring and reporting on the project. It works to give everyone on the project team a job and the knowledge as to where they have authority and when to consult others, as well as defining the reporting process.

Let’s look at the people who are responsible, for example, the team who execute the project. Once invited into the software, you can share the project plan, assign them tasks, add detailed direction, add a deadline and tag for priority and more. The teams can then collaborate by attaching files and images to the tasks and commenting in real-time to work better together.

Those who need to stay informed of the project can do so by also getting invited into the project and sharing plans and schedules with them. Stakeholders can stay updated with reporting features that can generate reports on project variance, cost, time and more with one click. Then share them as a PDF. Reports can even be quickly filtered to zero in on the data stakeholders are interested in.

The responsibility assignment matrix can help you reallocate your resources when things aren’t progressing as planned. Use our software to get further insight. The resource management features include a workload chart that’s color-coded so it’s easy to see who has too many tasks and who can take on more work. Then you can simply reallocate those resources from the workload page to help your team work more productively.

ProjectManager gets you organized, keeps your team focused on their tasks and stakeholders in the loop. Gain efficiencies throughout every aspect of your project’s life cycle with an online Gantt chart to schedule work and kanban boards, a visual workflow feature that provides transparency into production. All that and it’s on a collaborative platform to keep everyone connected. Try ProjectManager today for free.

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Responsibility Assignment Matrix (RACI Matrix) Explained

Last updated 11th April 2024

There’s an old saying that ‘If everyone’s responsible, nobody’s responsible.’ And in project management, it often rings true.

When people don’t know exactly what they – and their colleagues – are responsible for, it’s easy for things to get missed, ignored, or left for others to deal with.

This is especially true nowadays, with projects more complex – and teams more distributed – than ever.

And it’s a situation that leads to confusion, frustration, and, potentially, project failure .

One way to mitigate this is the responsibility assignment matrix – sometimes called the RACI matrix.

In this post we’ll outline the core principles of the RACI Matrix – and explain why it may be a good idea for project managers to put in place for their projects!

What is a RACI matrix?

A RACI matrix is an essential project management tool used to define roles and responsibilities for a project or project task. It’s about defining who’s responsible for projects or tasks, and what level of input is expected of them.

These are the four categories of involvement in a project, and each individual or team involved in the project is assigned one of these project roles. 

Let’s first dig into what they mean…

The Responsible category is for a person or team who is actively involved in completing a task or project. To put it crudely, they’re the ones who are actually ‘doing the work.’

The Accountable category is for the person or team who’s ultimately responsible for the success or failure of the project, task or deliverable. They might not be the ones ‘doing’ the work, but they are the ones who are ultimately accountable for the outcome. 

The Consulted category is for teams or people who need to be consulted for their expertise or input along the way. They may not be directly involved in the work, but their input is important. For example – these people might be required to give feedback and sign off, or provide technical advice.

And the Informed category is for people who need to be kept informed of progress. They may provide input on a task or project, but more likely, they just require up-to-date info to understand where things are up to.

By clearly defining roles and responsibilities for a project using a RACI matrix, it’s easier to monitor progress and ensure successful completion. 

It also helps to eliminate misunderstandings about who is responsible for what by enshrining this in a clear, visual way.

How to create a RACI matrix

Creating a RACI matrix is easy to do. The matrix consists of two main elements – a table and a list of tasks, roles and responsibilities for the project or task.

The table is made up of columns for each individual involved in the project, and rows for each task or activity that needs to be completed. Each cell in the table will indicate the role for that person in relation to that particular task. The list should include a description of each task or activity, as well as the roles and responsibilities for each individual involved.

Let’s look at a classic project and consider how those categories would come into effect using the RACI model.

In this example we’ll consider a typical, run-of-the-mill web design project. So we start by adding a column for every person or team involved – we’ll go with client, project manager, web designer, graphic designer, front-end developer, back-end developer, content writers/editors/strategists and a QA team.

Then, down the left-hand column, we list the stages or tasks involved in that project. We’ll keep things broad and go with briefing and project outline, design, look and feel, user experience, front-end user interface, back end functionality and website content

Again, this is pretty broad, but you could also make it incredibly granular, highlighting every single task and every single person – and, actually, the RACI matrix is often at its best when done in this more detailed way.

Then, to complete our RACI matrix, we need to go through each empty box in our chart and fill it out with one of our four letters to denote whether that person or team is Responsible, Accountable, Consulted or Informed.

To further illustrate the idea, let’s look at a different example – designing and executing a content marketing strategy.

In this example you’ll notice that we have some individuals marked as “A&R” – this means they’re both accountable AND responsible. In other words, they’re tasked with doing the work – AND accountable for the results – which demonstrates how, sometimes, people can occupy more than one category in the matrix.

The beauty of this model is that you can read it in a couple of different ways.

You can view it row by row and work out who has what level of responsibility for a particular task.

Or you can use the columns to work out the requirements of a person or team across a whole project. In theory, you could pick out your role, then get a clear overview of all your responsibilities by simply working your way down the list.

Your RACI Matrix x Project.co

RACI charts are a key part of the project management process – particularly for complex projects – and can be managed with project management software like Project.co . 

Start by creating your project. Every project can be customised to include the tools you need.

Next, invite your project team – this can be made up of internal team members, client team members, and even freelancers.

The Project Notes section is a great place to leave important info that’s relevant to the whole project. This is a good place to store your RACI matrix. 

You can also use the Embed tool to embed documents such as Google Sheets so they’re available from within your project to everyone involved.

You can also include important RACI chart info from within the notes section of each task, as well as attaching tasks to individual people, dates and other important info.

Simply create the tasks you need to complete for your project and assign the responsible person or people to them. 

Final thoughts

You don’t have to be a business analyst to create a RACI chart and use this powerful method to make your projects more streamlined, simple and efficient.

The bottom line is that a RACI matrix ensures every team member knows what’s expected of them – who’s accountable, who’s doing the work, who needs to be consulted, and who needs to be kept up to date.

And if you’re looking to take your project management game to the next level – sign up to Project.co today and get started for free!

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Article • 6 min read

The Responsibility Assignment Matrix (RAM)

Knowing where the buck ultimately stops.

By the Mind Tools Content Team

It takes a lot of effort to keep a large project running smoothly. With a large number of variables, people, and deliverables, it’s hard to keep on top of everything that’s happening. Consider the following scenario:

Hal (the distressed project manager): "What do you mean, we don’t have the test results yet?! What has Katy been doing? Get Katy!"

Katy: "No, Hal, I wasn’t responsible for getting that done. Joan has more expertise in that area, remember? I’ll ask Joan what happened."

Joan: "Gee, Katy, I know I have more experience with these reports, but I was waiting for you to contact me so we could review them together."

Do you recognize anyone you know? This type of situation is repeated daily in organizations across the globe. And most of the time, there’s no incompetence or bad intentions involved. More often, problems like this are the result of inadequate planning and poor communication.

Successful projects have a clear breakdown of who is ultimately responsible for each aspect of the project. Without clear, written, and agreed-upon accountability, it’s far too easy to for communication to fail and for responsibilities to be muddled.

So how do you avoid this?

Developing a Responsibility Assignment Matrix

One tool that project managers use to keep these assignments clear is the Responsibility Assignment Matrix (also called the RAM, or the Responsibility Matrix). This matches deliverables with the people who are responsible for them. For every piece of the project, the matrix shows who needs to contribute what for the project to be completed.

For example, let’s say that you’re upgrading your customer service delivery system, and you need to train your staff to use new procedures and tools.

Step One: Define Your Deliverables

Using a Work Breakdown Structure , you define three key deliverables for this training project, with a few subcategories for each:

• Survey current practice.
• Define new practice.
• Locate resources.
• Prepare training schedule.
• Manage training.
• Re-survey practices after implementation.
• Analyze results.

A Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) is a project planning tool used to break a project down into smaller, more manageable pieces of work (deliverables). It's not a list of every task: rather, it's a "tree" structure showing the meaningful groups of activities that make up the main segments of the project.

Step Two: Identify the People Involved

Map out who is on your project team. By creating a chart of individuals who are available, you can then delegate work assignments based on expertise, and you can recruit talent that you’re missing. This step is often called an “Organization Breakdown Structure” because it creates an organizational chart for your team.

Step Three: Create Your Responsibility Matrix

Draw a matrix. The deliverables are the column headings, and the people are the row titles.

With your team, determine accountabilities as well as other levels of involvement for each item in your Work Breakdown Structure.

A useful framework to determine role assignments is RACI . This defines four levels of involvement:

R = Responsible (People who do the work). A = Accountable (People who make sure the work gets done). C = Consulted (People who provide input before and during the work). I = Informed (People who are kept informed of progress).

Project Management Institute, "A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK Guide)" – Fifth Edition, (2013). Copyright and all rights reserved. Material from this publication has been reproduced with the permission of PMI.

Other levels of involvement may include “assist”, “coordinate”, “sign off”, and “review”. You can decide how to assign responsibility for your project and your team. But you must be sure that ultimate accountability and responsibility for performing the work are agreed upon and communicated.

Step Four: Communicate

When your Responsibility Assignment Matrix is complete, communicate it to all stakeholders. It’s a good idea to post it in an area where people will see it. Used effectively, the RAM helps people understand what they should be doing at all stages of the project.

Project teams can easily lose focus on what needs to be done and who needs to do it. People may assume that somebody else is doing something – and before long, key pieces of work fall behind schedule.

To avoid this common problem, consider developing a Responsibility Assignment Matrix for your team. This matrix clearly identifies which role each team member has agreed to take on for each of the project’s main deliverables.

With these assignments, you can eliminate miscommunication about who’s doing what – and you can help to ensure that your project is successful.

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Your guide to RACI charts, with examples

Can you identify exactly who’s doing what by when for each task, milestone, and deliverable in your project? If not, you might need a RACI chart.

RACI is an acronym to help teams clarify project roles and figure out who the responsible party is for any given task. Whether you've never heard of RACI before or you’re considering creating a RACI chart for your next project, here’s everything you need to know about how to create and use these charts.

What is a RACI chart?

Responsible.  This person is directly in charge of the work. There should only ever be one Responsible role per task so you know who to go to with questions or updates. If a task has more than one Responsible person, you can lose clarity and cause confusion. Instead, aim to add additional collaborators as some of the other RACI roles, which can have more than one person.

Accountable.  The Accountable person is responsible for overseeing overall task completion, though they may not be the person actually doing the work. There are two ways to assign an Accountable role. Sometimes, the Accountable is the project manager (or even the Responsible, though in that case the person is taking on two different roles during the task workflow). In these cases, the Accountable is responsible for making sure all of the work gets done. In other cases, the Accountable is a senior leader or executive who is responsible for approving the work before it’s considered complete. Like the Responsible role, there should only ever be one Accountable.

Consulted.  This will be the person or people who should review and sign off on the work before it’s delivered. There may be multiple Consulted roles for each task,  project milestone , or deliverable.

Informed.  This is the person or group of people who are informed about the progress and completion of work. They probably are not involved in any other aspect of the deliverable.

When should I create RACI charts?

RACI charts are a helpful way to track each stakeholder’s role for a task, milestone, or deliverable—especially if you’re managing a complex project with many decision makers and subject matter experts. With a RACI chart, you can prevent poor decision making and avoid roadblocks in the approvals process that could impact overall project success.

These charts, while different from PERT charts , are especially useful if your stakeholders may be taking on different roles throughout the project. For example, there could be a stakeholder who is Responsible on one deliverable but Informed on another. With a RACI chart, you can clearly outline these details and make sure everyone knows who’s responsible for what.

Example of a RACI chart

To build a RACI chart, list every task, milestone, or deliverable for your project. Then, identify who the Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, and Informed team members are for each one.

Let’s say you’re updating the homepage on your website.  Project stakeholders  include:

Head of website

Web developer

You want to create a RACI chart for five tasks and deliverables:

Update homepage CTAs

Update customer story on homepage

Revamp website design

Improve homepage loading speed

Update homepage design

The RACI chart would look like:

Responsible: Copywriter

Accountable: Web developer

Consulted: Head of website

Informed: Designer

Revamp video on homepage

Responsible: Designer

Informed: Copywriter

Responsible: Web developer

Informed: Copywriter & Designer

Pros and cons of RACI charts

Ultimately, the question is: should you create a RACI chart? While RACI charts are a useful tool to identify project responsibilities, they can get a little cumbersome over the lifecycle of a project. Here are the pros and cons of creating a RACI chart for your team’s work:

The benefits of RACI charts

Clear project roles and responsibilities can help your team move fast and reduce confusion about who’s working on what. With a RACI chart, you can ensure you don’t have two team members working on the same thing. As a result, you’ll have an easier time  collaborating  with your team.

RACI charts are also particularly helpful when the decision-making process is split between tasks. There might be scenarios where the Informed on one task or milestone is the Responsible or Consulted on another—in order to have that clearly defined, it’s helpful to track this work in a RACI chart.

RACI chart pitfalls (and how to avoid them)

RACI models focus on the granular, instead of capturing work at the project level. You might know who the Consulted is on a particular task—which is helpful—but knowing that doesn’t help you understand how various stakeholders interact with the broader project work.

Additionally, if you attempt to write out each task and each role, your RACI chart can get bulky. Worse, if your project changes in some way, your RACI chart would immediately become outdated. That can make it hard for you to gain real-time clarity about where each task is in your project workflow.

RACI charts are limited because they aren’t able to adapt to your project needs in real time. In order to establish clear expectations and eliminate confusion on the project level, you need a  project management tool .

Take your RACI chart to the next level

With project management software, every task has an assignee—that’s the Responsible. You can see work on the project level, so the Accountable and Informed don’t have to check in via email or status meetings. And, for any approvals you need from your Consulted, you can track reviews and approvals in one place. That way, your entire RACI team has a central source of truth for all of the work being done.

Instead of having your RACI chart separate from where the work is happening, project management tools capture the topic, assignee, and other important information like the task due date or relative importance. That way, your entire project team has visibility into who’s doing what by when—and you’re not relying on a single person to manage and update your RACI chart. Project management tools update in real time, so you can see exactly where you are in the approval process.

Track who’s doing what by when

Clear team roles and responsibilities help you hit your deliverables on time. Tracking different and complex stakeholder responsibilities in a RACI chart can help you do that—but RACI charts are just the beginning. Learn more about  work management , and how your team can benefit.

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RACI model: A map for team structure (with template)

A few weeks back, in a burst of misguided optimism, I found myself in an escape room with eight of my most brilliant friends. I was confident we'd bust out in record time, but we quickly realized our error: too many cooks, not enough coordination.

We really could have used RACI. The RACI model—which stands for responsible, accountable, consulted, and informed—would have gotten us the Instagram-worthy escape time we'd hoped for. This project management model ensures that there are clear roles, no conflicting ideas, and a clear communication process. Here, I'll unpack the RACI model and how it can streamline potentially chaotic projects—and perhaps save you from your own escape room disaster.

Table of contents:

Why you need a RACI matrix

When should you use a raci matrix, what should a raci matrix include, how to create a raci matrix, example raci chart and template, raci matrix alternatives, what is the raci model.

The RACI model, sometimes called a responsibility assignment matrix (RAM), is a project management tool for assigning roles and responsibilities to the various stakeholders of a project. Think of it as a roadmap for who's doing what. It's the secret ingredient to making sure your projects don't implode in a fiery mess of miscommunication, redundant work, and misalignment.

RACI is an acronym that stands for responsible , accountable , consulted , and informed . Let's break each of those down.

Responsible: This is the person who's actually doing the thing. Think creatives, developers, analysts, and other worker bees. If we're talking about making a sandwich, this is the person slapping the mayo on the bread.

Accountable: Typically in a leadership position, this is the person who's got the final say. If that sandwich ends up being terrible, this is who you send it back to.

Consulted: These are the folks you chat with before making decisions. Like, "Hey, do you think we should add pickles to this?" They give input, but they're not in the kitchen with you. In the work world, we're talking about people like subject-matter experts, legal teams, and quality assurance teams.

Informed: These people are just here for the updates. "Just so you know, we're going with pickles." Informed parties can include external stakeholders, end users, senior management, or anyone else who needs to know what's happening but isn't directly involved in the action.

Importantly, RACI isn't just for the overarching project—it's applied to each individual task within that project. You'll document your RACI roles in a RACI chart to be sure everything's clear and transparent—more on that below.

There's nothing worse than finding multiple people doing the same thing while working on a project, or neglecting an important task because everyone thinks it's not their job.

RACI is a management tool that helps distribute tasks and assign responsibilities in a clear and transparent way. It helps people know where to go for information or approval, prevents people from passing the buck, and makes sure everyone is clear on their primary responsibilities. 

Key RACI benefits include:

Clearly defines responsibilities and expectations: No more "Well, finance said it was ready to ship..." moments. Everyone knows their role, and there's no stepping on toes.

Reduces workflow confusion: It's like having a map in a maze. You know exactly where to go and what to do without running into dead ends or, worse, minotaurs.

Enhances understanding and clarity: Because there's always someone accountable, decisions are decisive, and responsibilities are unmistakably defined. It's like translating everyone's thoughts into a universal language where "I thought you meant..." becomes a phrase of the past. 

Flexible approach: RACI works for almost any project type. Whether setting up a new server or orchestrating a multi-channel marketing campaign, the RACI model can be tailored to fit your needs.

You might ask yourself, "Self, how do I know when a RACI matrix is needed?" Let's sort that out.

Examples of projects where you should use RACI:

New product launch: Launching a new product isn't just about who's doing what. It's about understanding the decision-making hierarchy. Who gives the final nod for the marketing strategy? Who should be consulted about production timelines? With RACI, you're not just assigning tasks; you're clarifying the chain of command and consultation, ensuring a smoother launch process.

Office relocation: Ever tried moving your entire workspace without losing your favorite mug? Or your sanity? Who has the authority to choose the new location? If there's an issue with the new space, who's the point of contact? And before finalizing the seating arrangement, who should be consulted? RACI delegates tasks and defines the decision-making flow, ensuring a seamless transition.

Software implementation: Implementing new software isn't just about installation. Who approves the software choice? Who should you consult when deciding on configurations? And if things go sideways, who's the brave soul accountable for handling the fallout? RACI provides a clear roadmap of responsibility and consultation, ensuring the software rollout is successful.

Event planning: Organizing a corporate event or conference involves many moving parts. Who has the final say on the venue? Who gives approval when you need to know if karaoke is a yea or nay? And who should be consulted when deciding between a taco bar or sushi rolls? RACI helps you streamline the communication and decision-making processes.

Examples of projects where you shouldn't use RACI:

Simple tasks: If the task is straightforward, like "get more coffee filters for the break room," you probably don't need a matrix.

Short-term projects: If you're whipping up something quickly with a small team, the time spent creating a RACI might outweigh its benefits.

Well-established processes: For routine tasks that the team has been performing for years, introducing a RACI matrix is probably overkill.

A RACI chart has a specific structure. It's not just about listing out people's roles—to be effective, it needs a few other components.

Key components of a RACI matrix include:

Tasks: These are the specific activities or steps that need to be accomplished throughout the project. They form the backbone of the matrix, clarifying what needs to be done. Think of them as the items on your to-do list.

Roles: This refers to the individuals or teams involved in the project. From team members to stakeholders, this is everyone who's got some skin in the game.

Responsibilities: This is the nitty-gritty of who does what. It's where you hand out the jobs. Like, "Hey, you! You're on lead gen duty."

Accountabilities: This is the "buck stops here" role. It's about ownership, pinpointing who is ultimately answerable for the completion and quality of each task.

Now that you know what RACI is, it's time to unpack the step-by-step process of crafting your own RACI matrix.

Map out the project landscape: Begin by pinpointing the scope of your project. What are the specific tasks that need to be accomplished? The level of detail is up to you. Put the tasks on the vertical left side of your chart. It's like making a grocery list, but with the added bonus of not having to decide if you really need that third pint of ice cream.

Identify key players: The lucky souls involved in this project are your stakeholders. They get prime real estate across the top of your chart.

Assignments: For each task, you'll want to determine who's responsible (the doer), who's accountable (the decision-maker), who needs to be consulted (the advisors), and who should be informed (the folks kept in the loop).

Share and review: Once your initial RACI matrix is set up, gather the crew for a review session. This collaborative approach ensures everyone agrees on their roles and responsibilities. It's an opportunity to clarify any ambiguities and hash out any disagreements so everyone's on the same page .

Stay adaptable and engaged: Projects evolve, and so should your RACI matrix. As you progress, changes or shifts might need to be addressed. Regularly revisit your RACI chart, tweak as needed, and keep communication lines open, making sure it remains a relevant and valuable tool.

And here are some golden rules for using the RACI model:

Every task should have at least one Responsible party . Someone's gotta roll up their sleeves and do it. Otherwise, it's just a free-for-all of "not my job" shrugs.

There is always one and only one Accountable for each task . Adding another is like having two quarterbacks in a football game. Unless you're the 2008 Miami Dolphins, it just doesn't work.

Only the Responsible and Accountable roles are mandatory for each task. This ensures that for every activity, there's someone doing the work and someone ensuring it's done right. Everyone else is just there for support.

Keep it simple. If your grandma can't figure out your RACI chart, you're doing it wrong. Make it clear and understandable.

And there you have it. With these ingredients and rules in hand, you're well on your way to creating a RACI chart that'll make your project run smoother than freshly churned butter.

A RACI matrix is where you can see who's doing what at a glance.

Project tasks are in the left column

Project roles are in the top row

Each task gets a letter: R, A, C, or I

Letters are applied at the intersections of rows and columns to signal which role is performing each task

Next time you're drowning in a sea of "Who's on first?" whip out this RACI template to chart your way to clarity.  But remember: the magic isn't in the template, but in the thoughtful application of the RACI model.

The RACI matrix is a staple in project management, but like with any tool, sometimes you need a different wrench for a different bolt. If RACI doesn't work for you, here are some alternatives.

RAS (Responsible, Approve, Support): This simplified version of RACI might be a good fit if your team doesn't need the "Consulted" and "Informed" distinctions. RAS is perfect for those "let's not make this harder than it needs to be" projects.

RAPID (Recommend, Agree, Perform, Input, Decide): This one's ideal for decision-making processes. If your project involves a lot of decisions that need input from various stakeholders, RAPID can help streamline who does what.

CARS (Consulted, Approve, Responsible, Support): This is another RACI variation emphasizing supportive functions and approval authority. CARS is for you if your project is about getting those green lights (car joke).

RASCI (Responsible, Approve, Support, Consulted, Informed): RACI's overachieving cousin, RASCI includes the "Support" role, which can be crucial for projects where certain team members provide resources or support without being directly involved.

DACI (Driver, Approver, Contributor, Informed): This model is handy for projects with a clear "driver," or leader. It emphasizes the leadership role while still keeping everyone else in the loop. Use DACI when someone's clearly wearing the captain's hat, but you still need a crew. 

CLAM (Collaborate, Lead, Agree, Monitor): CLAM might be the way to go if your project is highly collaborative. If it feels like a group project in school, where everyone needs to pitch in, give CLAM a shot.

Choosing the right model depends on your project's specific needs and your team's dynamics. While RACI is a fantastic starting point, don't be afraid to explore these alternatives to find the perfect fit for your next endeavor. And if all else fails, just make up your own acronym. Who's stopping you?

Unlock the power of RACI

I can't help but think back to my escape room fiasco. If only we'd designated someone responsible for deciphering the codes, and another accountable for keeping us on track. A couple could've been consulted for their puzzle-solving prowess, and the rest, well, they could've been informed—preferably from a distance. 

Related reading:

Kanban vs. Scrum Agile methodology: Which is better?

The best project management software

4 ways project management automation makes your job easier

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Allisa Boulette

Based in New England, Allisa is a content marketer and small business owner who hopes to make the internet a more interesting place than she found it. When she’s not working, you can find her lying very still not doing anything.

• Project management
• Product management
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What is a RACI matrix? (with examples)

Say your team is asked to design a new product feature. Exciting news—but you'll need more information before you get cracking. Who's approving the project, building it, and managing the timeline? The quickest way to collect and communicate that information is a RACI matrix, a diagram that shows who's doing what on your project.

With this guide, you'll discover:

• What a RACI matrix is, and how it assists with project management
• How to improve your project plan with a responsibility matrix
• How to build your own RACI diagram with FigJam's RACI chart template

What is a RACI matrix?

A RACI matrix—often called a RACI chart or responsibility assignment matrix (RAM)—is a project management tool that captures the roles and responsibilities of project stakeholders. Team members can see who does what at a glance, clarifying different roles across complex projects. The acronym RACI stands for:

• Responsible refers to the individual or group performing a particular task. For example, the UX team might be tapped as the responsible party for mapping out specific product design features. Make sure each task has at least one responsible person.
• Accountable refers to the person who ensures a task is completed successfully. To avoid confusion, make sure teach task has only one accountable role. This is usually filled by a manager or a high-level team member with the authority to delegate project tasks.
• Consulted describes individuals whose feedback factors into project workflows, but aren't involved in day-to-day tasks. This includes subject matter experts or decision makers who are consulted for input or sign-off on project milestones. For example, a business analyst may be consulted about competitive research to inform design decisions.
• Informed describes anyone who needs updates on task progress across project phases, but isn't necessarily involved in task execution. For example, developers building design features may need real-time updates on design task completion or setbacks to plan their work.

In this matrix example , the UI designer is responsible for creating the design and the product owner is accountable for making sure that design gets done. The content writer may be consulted, and the CEO is informed about project milestones.

4 key benefits of a RACI matrix

The RACI matrix is commonly used in agile and scrum methodologies because it helps keep complex projects moving toward successful completion in four key ways:

1. Role clarity

By clearly defining Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, and Informed roles, a RACI matrix minimizes confusion, ambiguity, and overlap. This ensures that everyone involved in the project is on the same page and understands what is expected of them.

2. Communication

A RACI matrix outlines who should be consulted and informed at every stage of the project. This invites open and consistent communication—the lifeblood of any team project.

3. Efficiency

Outlining distinct roles and responsibilities with a RACI chart helps streamline team efforts and clarify project tasks, helping your project run smoother and faster.

4. Accountability

When you put your RACI matrix on your project dashboard, everyone can see who's responsible for which tasks and project deliverables. This establishes shared accountability, fostering teamwork and ownership among team members.

How to build a RACI matrix in 5 steps

You can create a RACI matrix for effective project management in five steps using this RACI matrix template in FIgJam.

• Outline all tasks. Start by listing all the tasks or deliverables for the project. In the first column of your table, prioritize and arrange tasks in the order they must be accomplished.
• Identify project team members. Name all team members or stakeholders involved in the project. List them across the top row.
• Assign project roles. For each specific task, assign RACI roles (Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, and Informed) to the appropriate team member. Make sure to assign one accountable person per task, to keep project progress on track.
• Review and revise. Double check that each project task is identified and every team member's role is represented. Leaving out tasks or roles can create confusion and leave project gaps. Plan regular reviews to update the matrix with ongoing changes, like completed tasks, role shifts, or new tasks.
• Communicate and implement. Whenever possible, involve the whole team in the creation of the RACI matrix. To build buy-in and understanding. Once project team members and stakeholders sign off on the matrix, incorporate the tasks into your project management process.

3 alternative approaches to RACI charts

While the RACI model is widely used, this exhaustive list provides alternatives. These three may be more suitable depending on a project's or organization's needs:

• RAPID : This methodology created by Bain & Company coordinates decision-making in five steps: Recommend, Agree, Perform, Input, Decide.
• DACI : This framework aids group decision-making by assigning specific roles: Driver, Approver, Contributor and Informed.
• RASCI : This variation of the RACI model acronym includes an additional "S" for Supportive team members.

Jumpstart your RACI matrix with FigJam

To make your own RACI matrix, try the free FigJam RACI matrix template . Then finesse your matrix with these pro tips:

• To get your team involved with your RACI, use FigJam's collaborative features like stamps, stickers, emotes, and high-fives .
• Transform tasks and deliverables into actionable to-dos with FigJam's task management widgets, project management integrations, and Gantt chart maker .
• Customize your matrix with brand elements from your company's Figma brand library.
• For more inspiration, browse the library of RACI matrix templates shared by the Figma design community.

Ready to assign project roles and responsibilities?

Keep reading

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Having a flow chart can help visually represent actions or people in a complex situation.

How to create a project status report

Whether you’re developing a new product or launching a marketing campaign, your company’s success hinges on keeping your project on track

How to run great daily standups

How do you make sure everyone's on board, on task, and on track for a productive day ahead?

RACI Matrix Mastery: Your Comprehensive Guide to Responsibility Assignment

Introduction, what is a raci matrix, raci chart rules and roles, why are raci roles important, who creates the raci matrix, how to create a raci matrix, when should you use a raci matrix, raci model best practices, raci matrix in project management, alternatives to the raci matrix, top 3 project management software helps teams manage their raci charts.

In the world of project management, effective communication and clear delineation of roles and responsibilities are key to successful project completion. Without a proper understanding of who is responsible for what, tasks can be left unattended or duplicated, leading to confusion and delays. That’s where the RACI Matrix comes into play. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the intricacies of the RACI Matrix, explore its rules and roles, understand its importance, learn how to create one, discover the best practices, and explore its application in project management.

The RACI Matrix, also known as the RACI chart or RACI model, is a popular tool used to clarify roles and responsibilities within a project. RACI stands for R esponsible, A ccountable, C onsulted, and I nformed, representing four key roles involved in any task or decision. Each role is assigned a specific responsibility level, ensuring that everyone understands their part in the project.

The RACI Chart follows a set of RACI chart rules that govern the assignment of roles and responsibilities:

Responsible (R) : This role denotes the person or team who is responsible for completing a task or delivering a specific outcome. They are the individuals who actively carry out the work.

Accountable (A) : The accountable role represents the person who is ultimately answerable for the success or failure of the task. This individual makes decisions and ensures that the responsible party completes the task satisfactorily.

Consulted (C) : The consulted role includes individuals who possess relevant knowledge or expertise and are involved in decision-making processes. Their input is sought before making crucial decisions or taking significant actions.

Informed (I) : Individuals in the informed role are kept up to date on the progress and outcomes of the task or project. They need to be aware of the decisions and actions taken but are not directly involved in the task’s execution.

The RACI Model plays a vital role in project management for several reasons. First and foremost, it provides clarity regarding who is responsible for what, minimizing confusion and avoiding duplication of efforts. By clearly defining roles and responsibilities, the RACI Model ensures that tasks are completed efficiently and effectively, reducing the risk of project failure. Furthermore, adhering to RACI matrix rules helps in maintaining a disciplined approach to project management.

Additionally, it promotes accountability. Assigning an accountable role ensures that there is a designated person who takes ownership of the project’s success. This accountability fosters a sense of responsibility among team members, leading to increased productivity and motivation.

Furthermore, the RACI Model encourages effective communication and collaboration. By involving individuals in the consulted and informed roles, the matrix ensures that all relevant stakeholders are included in the decision-making process. This promotes transparency and allows for the integration of diverse perspectives, leading to better outcomes.

The creation of a RACI Matrix is a collaborative effort that involves key stakeholders in the project. The project manager typically takes the lead in developing the matrix, as they have a holistic understanding of the project’s objectives and the roles required for its successful completion. However, it is crucial to involve team members and subject matter experts to ensure accuracy and comprehensive coverage of responsibilities.

Creating a RACI Matrix involves the following steps:

Identify tasks and deliverables : Begin by identifying all the tasks and deliverables involved in the project. Break down the project into manageable components to ensure that nothing is overlooked.

Assign RACI roles : For each task or deliverable, assign the RACI roles. Determine who is responsible for completing the task (R), who is accountable for its success (A), who needs to be consulted (C), and who should be informed (I).

Document the RACI Chart : Create a visual representation of the RACI Chart using a spreadsheet or a specialized project management tool. List the tasks and deliverables in one column and assign the appropriate RACI roles in the adjacent columns.

Review and refine : Once the initial RACI Chart is created, review it with the project team and stakeholders to ensure accuracy and completeness. Make necessary revisions based on feedback and adjust the roles and responsibilities as required.

Communicate and implement : Share the finalized RACI Matrix with the entire project team and stakeholders. Clearly communicate the roles and responsibilities to ensure everyone understands their part in the project. Regularly revisit the matrix throughout the project lifecycle to ensure its relevance and make updates if necessary.

The RACI Matrix is a versatile tool that can be applied in various project scenarios. It is particularly useful in situations where there are multiple stakeholders, complex tasks, or a lack of clarity regarding roles and responsibilities. Here are some situations where using this tool can be beneficial:

Cross-functional projects : In projects involving multiple departments or teams, the RACI Model helps clarify responsibilities and ensure smooth coordination.

Decision-making processes : When critical decisions need to be made, involving the right individuals in the consulted role helps gather diverse perspectives and make informed choices.

Project handovers : During project transitions or handovers, the RACI Matrix ensures a seamless transfer of responsibilities and avoids gaps or duplications.

Process improvement initiatives : When analyzing and optimizing existing processes, the Chart helps identify bottlenecks and areas of improvement by clarifying roles and accountabilities.

To make the most of the RACI Model in project management, consider the following best practices:

Clearly define roles : Ensure that each role’s responsibilities and decision-making authority are clearly defined to minimize confusion and conflicts.

Keep the matrix updated : Regularly review and update the Matrix throughout the project lifecycle to reflect any changes in roles or project requirements.

Involve key stakeholders : Collaborate with project team members, subject matter experts, and other stakeholders to gather insights and ensure comprehensive coverage of responsibilities.

Communicate effectively : Clearly communicate the roles and responsibilities outlined in the Matrix to all team members to avoid misunderstandings and foster a shared understanding.

Train and educate : Provide training and education on the RACI Matrix to team members to ensure they understand its purpose and know how to effectively utilize it.

The RACI Matrix is a powerful tool in project management that enhances collaboration, improves communication, and ensures efficient task allocation. By clarifying roles and responsibilities, it minimizes confusion, reduces risks, and promotes accountability among team members.

Project managers can leverage the RACI Matrix to:

Streamline project execution : By clearly defining roles and accountabilities, the chart helps streamline project execution and ensures that tasks are completed by the right individuals.

Resolve conflicts : In case of conflicts or disputes, the RACI Matrix serves as a reference point to identify the responsible party and facilitate resolution.

Enhance stakeholder engagement : Involving stakeholders in the consulted and informed roles promotes their engagement, fosters a sense of ownership, and improves overall project outcomes.

Improve decision-making : By involving the right individuals in the decision-making process, the RACI Matrix ensures that decisions are well-informed, taking into account diverse perspectives and expertise.

While the RACI Matrix is widely used and effective in many project management scenarios, there are alternative models and tools that can be used based on project requirements and preferences. These RACI chart alternatives and RACI matrix alternatives include:

RASCI Matrix : Similar to the RACI Matrix, the RASCI Matrix adds an additional role called Support (S). This role represents individuals or teams providing support to the responsible party.

DACI Matrix : An alternative to RACI, the DACI Matrix focuses on decision-making. It assigns the roles of Driver, Approver, Contributor, and Informed. It is particularly useful in situations where decision-making is a critical aspect of the project.

Responsibility Assignment Matrix (RAM) : RAM is a broader matrix that includes more detailed information about roles, responsibilities, and skills required for each task. It goes beyond the simple RACI roles and provides a more comprehensive view of project assignments.

Role-Function Matrix : Another alternative to RACI ,the Role-Function Matrix focuses on the functions or activities performed by each role within the project. It helps identify and assign specific functions to different team members.

It’s important to note that the suitability of these alternatives depends on the specific project and organizational context. Project managers should carefully evaluate the needs and requirements of their projects before choosing an appropriate model or tool.

monday.com known for its flexibility and user-friendly interface, adeptly integrates the principles of the RACI Matrix into its project management environment. This tool allows users to create custom columns that can be used to assign RACI roles to different team members. For instance, a column for each RACI category (Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, and Informed) can be set up, and team members can be assigned accordingly. This visual representation makes it clear who is responsible for each task, ensuring that all team members are aligned and aware of their roles. Moreover, the platform’s notification and update features ensure that those in the ‘Consulted’ and ‘Informed’ roles are kept up-to-date on project progress and changes. Monday.com’s strength lies in its ability to adapt to various project management methodologies, making it an ideal choice for teams looking to implement the RACI model in a dynamic and intuitive way.

Further Exploration : There is much more to learn about Monday.com. For an in-depth review, visit Monday.com Review .

Asana , another popular project management tool, provides an effective framework for implementing the RACI Matrix . Asana’s task assignment and tagging features allow for clear delineation of responsibilities and roles. Each task or project in Asana can be tagged with custom tags representing R, A, C, and I roles, ensuring a clear understanding of each team member’s responsibilities. The tool’s comment section and progress updates are instrumental for those in the ‘Consulted’ and ‘Informed’ roles, offering a platform for collaboration and feedback. Asana’s advantage in employing the RACI Matrix lies in its streamlined communication features and task-specific focus, which enhances clarity and accountability in project management. Its user-friendly interface and robust tracking capabilities make Asana an excellent choice for teams seeking an organized and efficient way to apply RACI principles.

• Further Exploration : To discover more about Asana, check out the full review at Asana Review .

ClickUp is renowned for its versatility and comprehensive feature set, making it well-suited for incorporating the RACI Matrix. In ClickUp, custom fields can be created to represent the RACI roles, and tasks can be assigned accordingly. This customization allows for a clear visual representation of who is responsible, accountable, consulted, and informed for each task. ClickUp’s powerful notification system ensures that team members in the ‘Consulted’ and ‘Informed’ roles are always updated on task progress and developments. The platform’s ability to integrate with a multitude of other tools further enhances its utility in a RACI-driven environment, facilitating seamless communication and information flow. ClickUp’s strength in employing the RACI Matrix lies in its customizability and comprehensive nature, which allows for a detailed and nuanced approach to role assignment and project management.

• Further Exploration : To delve deeper into ClickUp, read the full review at ClickUp Review .

In conclusion, the RACI Matrix is a valuable tool in project management that empowers teams to effectively assign and understand roles and responsibilities. By providing clarity, promoting accountability, and facilitating communication, the RACI Matrix contributes to project success. Incorporate this powerful tool into your project management toolkit and watch as it brings order and efficiency to your projects.

For those seeking further insights into the best software options tailored to their unique business requirements, additional information can be found at Top 10 Project Management Software . This resource provides a comprehensive overview, helping businesses make well-informed choices in their quest for the ideal workflow management solution.

What does RACI stand for in the RACI Matrix?

RACI stands for Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, and Informed. These roles define the levels of responsibility and involvement for tasks and decisions within the RACI Matrix.

Who is responsible for creating the RACI Matrix?

While the project manager typically takes the lead in creating the RACI Matrix, it is important to involve the entire project team and key stakeholders to ensure accuracy and comprehensive coverage of responsibilities.

How often should the RACI Chart be updated?

The RACI Chart should be reviewed and updated regularly throughout the project lifecycle. It is essential to reflect any changes in roles, responsibilities, or project requirements to maintain its accuracy and relevance.

Can a person have multiple roles in the RACI Matrix?

Yes, in some cases, a person can have multiple roles. However, it is important to clearly define and communicate these roles to avoid confusion or conflicts.

What are the benefits of using a RACI Matrix?

The benefits include clarity in roles and responsibilities, accountability, effective communication, collaboration, and simplified decision-making. It helps minimize confusion, reduce risks, and promote project success.

Is the RACI Model applicable only to large projects?

No, the model is applicable to projects of all sizes. It is particularly useful in situations where there are multiple stakeholders, complex tasks, or a need for clear role definition and accountability.

Can the RACI Matrix be used outside of project management?

Yes, the methodology can be applied in various contexts outside of project management, such as process improvement initiatives, organizational decision-making, or any situation that requires clarifying roles and responsibilities.

Are there any limitations to using the RACI Chart?

While the RACI chart is a valuable tool, it has limitations. These include complexity in large projects, potential role overlap or ambiguity, limited flexibility, and the need to avoid over-reliance on a single person for its development and maintenance.

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How to Make a Responsibility Assignment Matrix: Excel RACI Template

What is a responsibility assignment matrix?

How to create a responsibility assignment matrix in excel, free raci template for excel, how to manage raci roles in your teamgantt plan.

A responsibility assignment matrix (RAM) is a tool used in project management to clarify team and stakeholder roles for each project step. It paves the way for smooth collaboration by ensuring everyone knows what they need to do, who they need to talk to, and who has the final say on key decisions and deliverables.

RACI—which stands for Responsible , Accountable , Consulted , Informed —is the most popular framework used for assigning roles and responsibilities on projects. Here’s a quick breakdown of RACI categories in basic terms:

• Responsible : Who completes the work?
• Accountable : Who makes decisions? 
• Consulted : Who provides expertise?
• Informed : Who needs status updates?

Of course, RACI isn’t the only responsibility assignment matrix out there. These RACI alternatives provide a small sample of other approaches you might come across in project management.

• RASCI (or RASIC) matrix : This RACI alternative adds one extra role into the responsibility assignment mix. In the RASCI model, the S stands for Supportive . While this role covers anyone who will lend the Responsible person a hand with the work, a Supportive team member isn’t responsible for the outcome.
• DACI matrix : DACI stands for Driver , Approver , Contributor , Informed and is used to outline decision-making roles and responsibilities for projects. In this framework, the project manager or leader typically serves as the Driver guiding the team to a decision.‍
• RAPID responsibility matrix : RAPID stands for Recommend , Agree , Perform , Input , Decide and is another decision-making framework used to define authority vs accountability. The Recommend role kicks things off by suggesting an action, while the Decide role has the ultimate say in how things move forward. ‍
• CARS : CARS stands for Communicate , Approver , Responsible , Support . In this model, Communicate combines RACI’s Consulted and Informed roles into a single assignment. Someone with the Communicate role lends their expertise and needs to be kept up-to-date on progress. The Approver is the main decision-maker who calls the shots.

Lay a clear path to success with a visual plan that’s easy to understand, and keep everyone in sync with flexible workflows and team collaboration.

Lots of people use spreadsheets to make a responsibility assignment matrix for their projects, so let’s walk through the basic steps of building one in Excel, using the RACI framework as our model.

Looking for an online solution? See how TeamGantt's RACI feature integrates into your project plan.

1. List project tasks and deliverables in column A

First, make a list of all the work that needs to be done for your project down the left side of your matrix. Enter each project task, milestone, or decision in column A of your Excel worksheet. 

Feel free to group tasks by project phase like we’ve done in the screenshot below. That way, your RACI matrix is easy to scan and read.

2. Add team members or project roles across row 1

Starting with column B, label each column header with the name of a team member and/or project role. 

Include the people who will execute and review work for the project, as well as any subject matter experts or stakeholders you may need to consult or keep in the loop along the way.

3. Insert a new worksheet for roles and definitions

Click Insert > Insert Sheet from the Home ribbon at the top of your Excel workbook.

Go to your new worksheet, and list each letter of the RACI acronym in column A. Then enter the corresponding role for each letter in column B. We also included RACI definitions in column C as a handy reference for anyone who might need a refresher.

You’ll use this worksheet to populate a drop-down list on the main RACI matrix tab to make it easier to assign roles quickly.

4. Add a drop-down list of roles to your matrix

Now, go back to your main worksheet, and click into the first open cell in your matrix.

On the ribbon, click Data > Data validation to insert a drop-down list with RACI roles.

On the Settings tab, choose List under the Allow menu.

Click into the Source field, then highlight the data range with your options from the RACI Roles & Definitions worksheet you set up in Step 3. We highlighted cells A2-A5 in our example.

Verify your Data validation settings are correct, then hit Enter to add the drop-down list to your selected cell.

Copy and paste that cell to apply the drop-down list to other cells in your RACI matrix worksheet.

5. Color-code assignments with conditional formatting

Click Conditional Formatting > New Rule on the Home tab. Select Classic > Format only cells that contain > Specific text > containing . Enter the letter R in the text box, then choose Custom Format , and apply a background color (and any other styles you want). 

Repeat this step for each additional letter in the acronym.

6. Assign a RACI value to everyone on every task

You’re almost there! Now go down the list of tasks on your responsibility assignment matrix, and assign a role to every person who will be involved in that project step or deliverable.

Want to build a responsibility assignment matrix of your own, but don't want to start from scratch? Download our ready-made Excel template for free. This blank RACI template is fully editable, so you can customize it for any project you manage. 

We added drop-downs for assigning RACI roles more easily and included a RACI chart example tab as reference in case you need a little extra guidance.

Download: RACI matrix template for Excel

You can easily upload your final matrix to your TeamGantt project . But if you don’t want to worry about outdated spreadsheets that get forgotten once work begins, why not assign RACI roles directly to your plan?

Here’s how to use TeamGantt’s online RACI feature for your next project.

Assigning RACI roles and responsibilities to TeamGantt tasks

• Open your project, and toggle to the RACI tab. This will display all your project tasks in a list format (rows). On the right side of the matrix, you’ll see a column for each person currently invited to the project with cells for each task in the project. 
• Click the cell below each person who needs to be assigned a role on a task, and choose one of the RACI options from the drop-down.

Viewing RACI matrix assignments for your project

There are 2 simple ways to view RACI assignments in TeamGantt:

• From the Gantt tab : If someone is assigned to a task and has a RACI role on that task, the RACI value will appear in parentheses next to that person’s name on the gantt chart. Just be aware that you won’t see RACI assignments for people who haven’t been assigned to a specific task in Gantt view.

• From the RACI tab : To access your project’s full RACI matrix, simply toggle to the RACI tab for that project. You’ll find RACI assignments for every person playing a role—whether or not they’re the one responsible for doing the work.

Keep teams in sync—and accountable—with TeamGantt

A responsibility assignment matrix is a simple tool that makes projects easier to manage by creating less confusion and more accountability. But you’ve got more than roles and responsibilities to keep straight.

TeamGantt makes it easy to build a project plan your whole team can contribute to and collaborate on. Everything happens online, so you can stay on top of deadlines and monitor progress in real time.

Use our built-in RACI chart to assign roles and keep them visible from project start to finish, so everyone knows how they contribute to success.

Try TeamGantt’s Pro Manager plan free for 30 days!

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Clearer Responsibilities, Smoother Operations: The RACI Matrix Explained

Boost your operation’s efficiency with the RACI Matrix. Define roles, streamline communication, and mitigate risks for efficient project management and team collaboration.

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Key Takeaways:

• The RACI Matrix is a visual responsibility assignment matrix (RAM) that ensures every team member knows their specific responsibilities within a project.
• The RACI Matrix establishes clear communication channels within the team and ensures that relevant stakeholders are kept in the loop, preventing information silos.
• The benefits of using the RACI Matrix include more efficient project workflows, optimized resource allocation, and ultimately, improved project efficiency and success rates.
• Digital tools like Insightful, an employee project time tracking software , enhance the RACI Matrix and project efficiency through real-time monitoring and in-depth data usage reports.

Read time: 8 minutes

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As projects grow more complex, knowing who does what becomes essential for success. Enter the RACI Matrix—a task management system that fosters collaboration and accountability.

Let’s go over each element of the RACI Matrix, highlighting the benefits. We’ll give you a heads-up about potential pitfalls and explain how employee project time tracking software and other digital tools can help you overcome them.

What Is the RACI Matrix?

The RACI Matrix is a visual chart that lists the stakeholders involved in a particular project and outlines the duties of each team member within the organization. It’s a fluid responsibility assignment matrix (RAM) where everyone is given a specific role, ensuring the tasks unfold with precision.

The name is short for ‘’Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, and Informed,’’ each word denoting the level of involvement in the project. Let's break down what that means in practice:

Responsible (R)

In a project scenario, the person designated as Responsible is the one who actually performs the task or activity. They are the hands-on contributor, in charge of executing the work. 

For example, within a marketing campaign, the responsible individual could be the freelance graphic designer tasked with creating visuals for the campaign. Their role involves taking creative direction and bringing it to life through their work. Their responsibility is to ensure the results meet the project's objectives and deadlines.

Accountable (A)

The person in the Accountable role holds ultimate ownership and authority over a certain task or activity. While they may not be directly involved in executing the work, they are responsible for ensuring its successful completion. 

Within a marketing campaign, the accountable individual would be the marketing manager. Their role involves providing strategic direction, overseeing the campaign's overall progress, and making key decisions to ensure its success. A marketing manager is ultimately accountable for the campaign's outcomes and responsible for resolving any issues that may come up along the way.

Consulted (C)

The Consulted role is meant for someone who provides input on a particular task or activity, typically an industry expert or a stakeholder. While they may not be directly involved in the execution, their expertise guides the entire project, ensuring its success. 

In a marketing campaign, for example, the role could go to someone from the sales team or an external partner. They would provide insights, feedback, and recommendations based on their experience to further the campaign's development and maximize its effectiveness.

Informed (I)

The person inhabiting this role isn’t directly involved in its execution or decision-making process. However, the Informed need to be aware of any developments, so they can sync up and support the project in other ways. 

Within a marketing campaign, the Informed role could go to an employee from another department, such as finance or human resources. From then on, that person needs to be in the loop about the campaign's progress and outcomes, to ensure it aligns with organizational goals and priorities. The Informed is also meant to provide support and guidance when needed.

Benefits of the RACI Matrix

The RACI Matrix brings clarity and accountability to the table by helping you precisely define roles and responsibilities within a project. With every team member knowing exactly what their job is, there’s no room for guessing games. This helps employees build a sense of ownership and dedication to their tasks.

Furthermore, the RACI Matrix helps establish clear channels for consultation and data sharing. As a result, the information flows throughout the project lifecycle, keeping everyone on the same page. This prevents any potential misunderstandings and bottlenecks. 

Finally, the RACI Matrix is a great strategy for risk mitigation. The chart helps you spot potential gaps or overlaps in responsibilities early on, allowing your team to nip issues in the bud. With this proactive approach,  there are fewer project setbacks .

Challenges & Solutions

Team members who are accustomed to traditional task assignments might be reluctant to embrace the RACI Matrix. Instead of forcing them to adjust, try communicating why you think this approach could be helpful. 

For example, schedule transparent communication sessions, emphasizing the benefits of the RACI Matrix. Focus on concrete upsides, like enhancing role clarity and accountability. Additionally, you can organize training sessions on the RACI framework and its practical application. 

Another potential challenge is making sure the RACI Matrix is updated consistently and accurately, especially in more complex projects. To avoid any missteps, you can schedule regular review sessions to validate task assignments and ensure everything aligns with project objectives. 

With any type of RAM, it’s best to rely on digital tools to streamline the process. More advanced software like Insightful can help you keep tabs on everything that goes down within a project. You’ll have access to website and app usage, real-time monitoring, and useful integrations that’ll enhance your RACI Matrix and improve workplace productivity.

How to Implement the RACI Matrix

The RACI Matrix requires proactive leadership and clear communication on your part. Here are three things you can do for your team to warm them up to this approach:

Educate & Train 

Start by educating your team about the RACI Matrix and its significance in project management. You can schedule dedicated training sessions or workshops to explore the system together. These sessions can be conducted in person or virtually, depending on the employee’s preferences and availability.

Alongside training sessions, you can provide learning materials, like slideshows, documents, or videos explaining the RACI Matrix. Make sure to include examples, case studies, and step-by-step guides on creating and using RACI charts.

Encourage Collaboration

Schedule regular team rallies where the RACI Matrix is discussed and updated as necessary. These meetings provide an opportunity for team members to collaborate, ask questions, and clarify their roles and responsibilities.

Make the most of collaborative tools, like project management software or shared documents to encourage communication among team members. These tools will allow them to access and update RACI charts in real time, ensuring that everyone has the latest information.

Provide Ongoing Support

You need to be readily available to answer questions, address concerns, and guide the implementation process. This can involve setting aside dedicated office hours or establishing an open-door policy where team members can approach the manager with any issues.

Schedule regular check-in meetings with individual team members to assess progress, provide feedback, and offer support. These one-on-one meetings allow the manager to address any challenges or roadblocks that team members may be facing and provide personalized assistance.

Helpful Digital Tools

The following digital tools can help you introduce the RACI Matrix to your team:

• Project Management Software : Tools like Asana and Trello offer features for creating and managing tasks, assigning roles, and tracking progress. You can use them to create RACI charts, assign responsibilities to team members, and track task completion status. 
• Collaborative Platforms: Collaborative document platforms like Google Docs and Microsoft Teams, allow multiple users to work together in real time. You can create and share RACI charts with your team, allowing team members to collaborate on defining roles and responsibilities. Version control and commenting also make it easy to track changes and provide feedback.
• Time Tracking Software or App: Insightful monitoring software for remote employees offers advanced features for time tracking and productivity analysis. You can use it to monitor team members' time allocation, identify bottlenecks in the workflow, and optimize resource utilization. Thanks to these detailed time usage patterns, you can ensure that each role and responsibility is distributed effectively within the RACI Matrix.

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If you want to make sure you have the right people in the right role—get Insightful remote employee tracking . Our workforce analytics solution was designed to create a collaborative, transparent workplace environment.

• Real-Time Tracking: Insightful's real-time monitoring feature offers invaluable insights into your team's digital resource usage. With quick access to each team member's activities, you can easily align their responsibilities with the RACI Matrix, ensuring tasks are delegated effectively and progress is tracked in real time.
• Effortless Integration: Seamlessly integrate Insightful into your workflow using our Integration Card feature. With simple options for activation, deactivation, and modification of integrations, you’re able to incorporate our platform into your existing software in just a few steps. Stay tuned for upcoming integrations with other project management tools, like our Asana integration .
• Project Efficiency & Performance Boost: Gain a clear view of actual hours worked with Insightful's comprehensive time-tracking capabilities. This data-driven approach allows you to make informed decisions, delegate tasks more efficiently, and ultimately boost project efficiency and performance. Make sure that every team member's contributions are maximized, leading to successful project outcomes. ‍

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Organizational Structure

What is a Responsibility Assignment Matrix

Last updated: Feb 15, 2023

Table of contents

What is a RAM matrix used for?

How to make a ram or raci chart.

Learn what a Responsibility Assignment Matrix is and how to use one to make all your upcoming projects run smoothly.

A Responsibility Assignment Matrix (RAM), sometimes known as a RACI chart, is a tool used in project management to keep track of all responsibilities assigned to cross-functional teams on a specific task or assignment.

It’s known as a RACI chart because its acronym names the four key roles displayed in the matrix:

• Responsible: Who is the person responsible for completing a task or making a decision?
• Accountable: Who is accountable for the completion of the project overall and will sign off on deliverables and decisions?
• Consulted: Who needs to be consulted to provide input on a particular task or item?
• Informed: Who needs to be kept informed of project progress or completion?

A typical RAM template looks like this:

| Task | Annabelle (PM) | Jack (Technical Lead) | Dory (Technical Team Member) | | ---------- | ---------- | ---------- | ---------- | | Task 1 | A | I | R | | Task 2 | R | C | I | | Task 3 | C | R | C | | Task 4 | A | R/I | R |

The RAM matrix is used to document every task, item and decision involved in a project completion process. By keeping everything logged all in one place, a RAM matrix is an invaluable tool to any project manager or company leader for a few reasons.

• Defines clear roles and responsibilities

There is nothing worse than a project being slowed down or stalled because of confusion over who was supposed to do what. In a RAM, every person or team involved can check to see which task or item.

• Streamlines communication

Sometimes explaining directions in person or over a workplace communication tool can get confusing or be interpreted the wrong way. Even worse, one instance of miscommunication can tank an entire project or jeopardize a relationship with a client.

With a RAM, project managers don’t have to waste time directing questions to the responsible stakeholder in charge of making a decision. The chart informs everyone involved exactly who they can go to for answers, cutting out repetitive conversations and notifying the right people at the right time.

• Distributes workloads evenly

No one ever wants to be the one in the group project that has to do everything. Team members with a higher workload are at a greater risk for burnout. A great benefit of a RAM is that everyone can see how the workload for a certain project is distributed. It’s also a great way to be transparent within workflows.

Don’t let the random letters confuse you. Building a RACI chart is surprisingly simple. It can also easily be tweaked to fit your organization and your particular project. According to the work management platform Wrike , here are four steps to follow when building a responsibility assignment matrix:

• Identify all project roles

Start out with a list of everyone involved in a project, including every team, team member, manager and stakeholder.

• Identify all project tasks

Then make a list of all the tasks and items needed to get a project done. These can include deliverables, activities, milestones and decisions.

• Create a chart with a column for each role and a row for each task

In a spreadsheet—or any other tool you’d like—create a simple table by listing each person or role in the columns and each task or deliverable in the rows.

To get the most out of your RACI chart, try to make the roles as personal as possible. For example, instead of naming a role “technical lead,” try to use names, like “Jack.” This will give every person involved a sense of ownership, while also streamlining communication even further.

• Assign “R,” “A,” “C” or “I” to each person involved

Once you have written out the names of each person and task, now comes the important part of assigning RACI to each person involved. Identify who is responsible, who is accountable, who needs to be consulted and who needs to be informed for every task in the project. A role can have more than one letter, but simplify it as much as you can. Bonus step: Add a color to each letter to make the roles stand out even more.

That’s it! You now have made a successful RACI chart. Review with your team and all stakeholders before you initiate a plan, and you are officially on your way to more effective project management.

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Responsibility Assignment Matrix: Template, Example & Benefits

Home Blog Project Management Responsibility Assignment Matrix: Template, Example & Benefits

Your team is the most crucial resource in completing a job. They must adhere to the project's schedule and budget. Controlling the project requires everyone involved to understand their roles and duties when carrying out tasks and accomplishing project objectives. How can all the participants in a project be coordinated so that they are aware of what they are doing and do not prevent others from carrying out their tasks? An assignment of responsibility matrix can be useful.

Your project will have a productive crew thanks to an assignment matrix. You can take an online PMP course to learn the details included in RAM, Responsibility Assignment Matrix in project management, and Responsibility Assignment Matrix example, to advance your career.

What is a Responsibility Assignment Matrix in Project Management?

So, what is the responsibility assignment matrix?  A Responsibility Assignment Matrix (RAM), sometimes referred to as a RACI chart or RACI matrix, in project management identifies all relevant stakeholders and specifies roles for cross-functional teams and their level of involvement in a project. Each letter in the acronym RACI, which stands for Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, and Informed, refers to a different team member in the Responsibility Assignment Matrix in Project Management.

1. Responsible

The team member that oversees finishing the assignment is the person responsible for the RAM, Responsibility Assignment Matrix. The person in charge may be tasked with gathering all the visual and data assets required to put together the presentation if your team is working on a pitch deck (Responsible for executing the task).

2. Accountable

The responsible team member distributes the tasks to the other team members and ensures that they are finished accurately and on time. This team member oversees making sure the project is completed on schedule and that the tasks are fairly distributed among the accountable parties (Has governing & directing authority).

3. Consulted

A responsible party in Responsibility Assignment Matrix Project Management may frequently need to consult an expert, who serves as the consulted person, to finish certain responsibilities. A professional analysis of the consulted party is required when someone is tasked with gathering marketing statistics for a presentation. They also need to ensure that the data the responsible party is required to submit is accurate (Provide insights, analysis or expert judgment).

4. Informed

The informed party needs to be aware of when the major project components are finished even though they may not be directly involved in all the steps to ensure that everything is running smoothly. The informed team member must be aware of any delays or stalls in the project as they must complete their tasks (Updated with project information and outcome).

Responsibility Assignment Matrix (RAM) Goal in Project Management

The goal of the Responsibility Assignment Matrix (RAM) is to clearly define roles and responsibilities of everyone on a project team. This ensures that everyone understands their role and how it fits into the bigger picture. RAM also allows for quick identification of whom to contact when an issue arises. It might also be applied within a working group to establish authority levels, roles, and duties for tasks.

The matrix format displays each person's associated actions and each person's associated people. To avoid confusion, this makes sure that there is only one person responsible for each task. It is also important to outline the dates and reminders for each participant, so that they are aware of their deliverables/plans to fulfill the deliverables. The best Project Management Certification programs online will teach you how to make efficient decisions and effectively use RAM.

How to Create a Responsibility Assignment Matrix?

A Responsibility Assignment Matrix (RAM) is a table that shows the tasks needed to be completed as part of a project, who is responsible for each task, and when the task needs to be completed. Making a matrix to distribute responsibilities is not as challenging as getting everyone on board with their respective jobs and responsibilities.

You should therefore involve your staff in the process, receive their feedback, and eventually secure their buy-in without expending excessive time and effort on it. You will have a successful responsibility assignment if you follow these instructions to ensure that everyone is on the same page. 

• List every person involved in the project, including the team, stakeholders, and everyone in between.
•  List each project deliverable that you can think of. To make sure you do not overlook any, use a work breakdown framework.  
•  To discuss how to carry out the tasks and produce the deliverables, meet with the team members. The duty and authority of the team for each assignment must be discussed.
•  Utilizing a table with the project tasks specified in the left-hand column, create a Responsibility Assignment Matrix. Print the names of everyone involved in the project across the top.
• Assign whether a project team member is liable, accountable, consulted, or informed where the tasks meet them.  
•  Share the completed Responsibility Assignment Matrix Template Word with the project team and stakeholders. If necessary, conduct a meeting to ensure that everyone is aware of their responsibilities for the project. Print a copy, and if you are working in a common location, post it.

Developing Responsibility Assignment Matrix (RAM) Best Practices

The best practices for developing a Responsibility Assignment Matrix (RAM) will vary depending on the specific project and organization. However, some tips on how to develop a RAM matrix effectively include the following:

• Define the project scope and objectives clearly, so that all stakeholders understand the parameters of the project and what is expected to be accomplished.
• Assign clear roles and responsibilities to individuals and teams so that everyone knows who is responsible for what aspect of the project.
• Make sure that the Responsibility Assignment Matrix PMP is kept up to date as the project progresses so that everyone is aware of any changes in roles and responsibilities.
• Use the RAM matrix as a tool to help identify potential risks and issues related to the project so that they can be addressed early on.
• One stakeholder leads a task.
• The lesser number of people are accountable, the better.
• Act efficiently with meetings.
• Continuous communication.
• Stakeholder agreement on final RAM.

Responsibility Assignment Matrix Examples and Templates

• Responsibility Assignment Matrix (RACI) 
• RACI-VS (Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, Informed- “V”erification and “S”ign off)
• RASCI (Responsible, Accountable, Support, Consulted, Informed)
• RAC (Responsible, Accountable, Consulted)
• ARCI (Accountable, Responsible, Consulted, Informed)
• RATSI (Responsibility, Authority, Task, Support, Informed)
• PACSI (Perform, Accountable, Control, Suggest, Informed)
• RACIQ (Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, Informed, Quality Review)
• DACI (Driver, Approver, Contributors, Informed)
• CAIRO (Consulted, Accountable, Informed, Responsible, Omitted)

Downloadable Responsibility Assignment Matrix Template Excel

Download the Responsibility Assignment Matrix Template (xlsx) here!

This Responsibility Assignment Matrix template is available for free in both Excel and OpenDocument Spreadsheet formats. The template can be completely modified using Microsoft Excel and adjusted to meet the needs of your project. To make it simple to understand what is required of each worker on each task, the template employs conditional formatting to change the color of each cell.

Download a Printable Responsibility Assignment Matrix PDF

Download the Responsibility Assignment Matrix Template (PDF) here!

If you intend to design a Responsibility Assignment Matrix (RAM), you may require samples and templates to use as a guide, regardless of whether you are managing an event, a construction project, or a restaurant. Some of the templates are-

• Responsibility Assignment Matrix Sample
• Responsibility Assignment Matrix for Construction Project Template
• Basic Responsibility Assignment Matrix Sample
• Responsibility Assignment Matrix in PDF

Benefits of Responsibility Assignment Matrix

There are many benefits of the Responsibility Assignment Matrix. One benefit is that it helps to ensure that everyone on a project team understands their roles and responsibilities. This can help to prevent misunderstandings and conflict between team members. Another benefit of using RAM is that it can help to improve communication between team members.

By clearly defining roles and responsibilities, team members will know whom to go to for specific information or tasks. This can help to avoid confusion and delays. Lastly, RAM can help to improve project management by providing a clear overview of who is responsible for what. This can help project managers to identify potential problems or areas where there may be a lack of resources.

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A Responsibility Assignment Matrix (RAM) is a tool used to identify and define the roles and responsibilities of individuals and groups within an organization. It is a means of clarifying who is responsible for what and ensuring that everyone understands their roles and responsibilities. RAM can be used to create accountability and ownership for tasks and projects, and to identify potential areas of conflict.

It is a valuable tool for effective project management and can help to ensure that everyone involved in a project is aware of their roles and responsibilities. It can also help to identify potential areas of conflict and ensure that tasks are properly assigned. The KnowledgeHut online PMP course will give you an insight into the Responsibility Assignment Matrix and can be a helpful tool for any project manager.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. what is included in a responsibility assignment matrix.

A Responsibility Assignment Matrix (RAM) is a tool used to help define and assign roles and responsibilities for a project or process. The matrix typically includes a list of tasks or deliverables and the people or groups responsible for each. 

2. What can a Responsibility Assignment Matrix (RAM) eliminate?

RAM eliminates ambiguity and confusion over who is responsible for what on a project. It also provides a clear overview of who is responsible for each task, making it easier to hold team members accountable.

3. What does a Responsibility Assignment Matrix not show?

The duty assignment matrix links resources to the tasks or work packages they must do, but it does not indicate when they will be required to do their work.

Kevin D.Davis

Kevin D. Davis is a seasoned and results-driven Program/Project Management Professional with a Master's Certificate in Advanced Project Management. With expertise in leading multi-million dollar projects, strategic planning, and sales operations, Kevin excels in maximizing solutions and building business cases. He possesses a deep understanding of methodologies such as PMBOK, Lean Six Sigma, and TQM to achieve business/technology alignment. With over 100 instructional training sessions and extensive experience as a PMP Exam Prep Instructor at KnowledgeHut, Kevin has a proven track record in project management training and consulting. His expertise has helped in driving successful project outcomes and fostering organizational growth.

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What is a Responsibility Assignment Matrix (RAM) in Project Management?

Fahad Usmani, PMP

March 30, 2024

A responsibility assignment matrix (RAM) in project management is a key document that distinguishes stakeholders’ roles and responsibilities. The RACI chart is the most popular example of a RAM that clarifies stakeholders’ roles and defines their involvement.

RACI stands for Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, and Informed. Each team member in the RACI chart has at least one role.

All stakeholders refer to RAM in case of conflict regarding the roles and responsibilities in assignments or duties. RAM helps reduce conflict in projects to a great extent. Using this document, every team member will know their roles and the responsibilities of other team members.

The roles in the RACI matrix are as follows:

• Responsible: This stakeholder is responsible for completing the task.
• Accountable: This stakeholder is accountable for the task. They will make decisions and delegate work to the stakeholders who are responsible for completing the task.
• Consulted: These stakeholders will be consulted on any decisions made about the task.
• Informed: These stakeholders only require an updated status report on the progress of the task.

Responsibility Assignment Matrix Example

As I said, the RACI chart is the most popular example of RAM.

The table below shows the RAM example using the RACI chart:

Some other less-popular responsibility assignment matrix examples are as follows:

• RASCI Chart: This chart is also known as the “RASCI matrix,” as the letter S is added, which means “supportive.” 
• DACI Chart: DACI stands for “Driver, Approver, Contributor, and Informed.” 
• RAPID Chart: RAPID stands for “Recommend, Agree, Perform, Input, and Decide.” 
• CARS: CARS stands for “Communicate, Approval, Responsible, and Support.” 
• CLAM: CLAM stands for “Contribute, Lead, Approve, and Monitor.” 

Responsibility Assignment Matrix Template

The table below shows the basic template for the responsibility assignment matrix.

RAM is a key tool in project management . It helps the project manager assign roles and responsibilities. Additionally, it ensures that the team stays on its path and that no one interferes with each other’s roles. Finally, RAM ensures that every task has responsible and accountable stakeholders assigned to it.

This topic is important from a PMP exam point of view.

I am Mohammad Fahad Usmani, B.E. PMP, PMI-RMP. I have been blogging on project management topics since 2011. To date, thousands of professionals have passed the PMP exam using my resources.

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What Is a RACI Chart? Definition, Template, and Examples

July 5, 2023 - 10 min read

Whenever you undertake a major project , there’s the risk of misunderstandings, miscommunications, and other misdemeanors throwing you off course.

To navigate the obstacles that inevitably arise with most projects, it’s best to have a reliable system to lean on that clearly outlines roles, responsibilities, and processes. The RACI chart does exactly that.

So, what is RACI? 

The RACI definition is an acronym that stands for responsible, accountable, consulted, and informed. The RACI chart is a way of proactively combating potential project issues before they arise. 

This guide will act as a primer to the RACI diagram, covering everything from the basics of the system to how you can make your own. We’ll provide a template and examples to help you down the way. We’ve even included alternatives if the RACI diagram doesn’t suit your project needs.

What is RACI? A definition 

As mentioned, the acronym RACI stands for r esponsible, a ccountable, c onsulted, and i nformed.

• Responsible : Who is responsible for a task or decision
• Accountable : Who is accountable for the overall project
• Consulted : Who must be consulted for their input on tasks or the overall project
• Informed : Who should be informed of the ongoing status of the project

With a RACI chart, you can define all the roles and related responsibilities pertaining to a project. It’s a common tool for project managers who want to start off on the right foot with each project and ensure there’s little to no space for confusion from the outset.

What are the benefits of a RACI matrix?

A RACI matrix is used to determine every detail of a project before it’s underway, but it also helps keep communication lines open during the work process. 

If you’re about to start a complex project, the RACI matrix can be your north star. The RACI chart can guide your progress as a robust blueprint — something you can reference throughout the project to get clarity on roles and responsibilities.

Here are the top three reasons to use a RACI chart:

1. Clearly define roles and expectations

At the start of any new project, there are a lot of moving pieces up in the air.

Common questions you might ask yourself could include:

• Who will be in charge of executing each task in the work breakdown structure ?
• How much work should each team member get done in a day?
• What will the deadline be and are there milestones to reach along the way?

A RACI chart will help clear up all these questions. The chart makes the project management process easier by promoting full transparency from day one.

With a RACI matrix, also known as a responsibility assignment matrix (RAM) , every team member will know exactly what they should be doing at all times. 

2. Streamline communication

For project harmony, you need effective communication lines between team members.

There’s nothing worse than lengthy email threads where you lose sight of relevant project information. Likewise, instant messages can be equally ineffective as you can get caught up in endless back and forth with your coworkers.

So what’s the solution to haphazard communication?

A RACI chart can help you plan out project details with streamlined approval systems, context-specific communication, and clearly outlined roles.

If you use a RACI chart with a project management platform such as Wrike, you can set up custom approval requests to make sure relevant team members are notified upon taking certain actions. You can also tag coworkers with comments and update the project status.

3. Distribute workloads evenly

In addition to setting up the conditions for project success, RACI charts can also help leadership reduce the risk of individual employee burnout . 

Seeing every team member’s responsibilities in a RACI chart can provide workload information at a glance. It can show just how much work each team member has on their plate, which makes it easier to balance the workload. That way, you won’t end up in a situation where silos develop and a few individuals bear the burden of most of the work.

In light of the recent quiet quitting movement , a form of labor protest where employees “work their worth,” it’s important to make sure each individual has a manageable workload. If stress levels soar due to rising workloads, the risk of disengagement increases, which can lead to burnout.

What are the disadvantages of a RACI matrix?

One of the primary limitations of the RACI matrix is that it can create more problems than it solves in some cases.

Assigning all stakeholders with a tag such as “responsible” or “consulted” can lead to a situation where you have input coming from all directions on the smallest of decisions. Too many voices can slow down the decision making process and ultimately delay your progress with the project.

Plus, if you’re about to take on a complex project, you also need to consider how often you’ll want to solicit input from key stakeholders. Will it be for every minor decision along the way or just the major ones? And if it’s the latter, how do you determine which are the most important decisions?

Spending too much time thinking about these questions can prevent you from getting a quick start on your project and leave you bogged down in the planning process.

Finally, when using a RACI matrix, you run the risk of creating a convoluted approval process whereby every stakeholder has to give up a lot of their time to leave feedback and push the project along.

How to make a RACI chart

At this point, you now know why you might need a RACI chart, so you’re probably wondering how to make your own. If you’re looking for a head start, try the Wrike RACI template to set up your matrix in record time.

Creating your own RACI chart is a straightforward process too, and you can do so with the following five steps:

1. Identify all project roles

The first step is to compile a list of everyone involved in the project.

This can include:

• Team members
• Department heads
• Stakeholders

When you come up with this list, think about every stage of the project so that you don’t leave any roles out. It isn’t limited to internal team members either so if you plan on working with subcontractors, it’s worth including them for full transparency.

When it comes to project roles, there are various ways of labeling them depending on what the specific project requires. 

For example, you may have “project manager” listed as a role, which suggests that whoever holds that position will execute the project manager’s responsibilities. Alternatively, you could make a list of the names of the people involved in the project if their responsibilities are more nuanced.

When you use individuals’ names instead of job titles, you can help them feel a greater sense of ownership of their work. It also makes it easier for every team member to instantly identify their roles whenever they glance at the RACI chart.

Once you have all the roles, you’ll plot each one out along the horizontal axis of your RACI chart.

2. Identify all project tasks

Now that you have all the roles (or the individuals responsible for various tasks) it’s time to list the tasks themselves.

Tasks can be broken down into any of the following:

• Deliverables
• Important decisions

All tasks you identify will go down the vertical axis of your RACI chart so that you can easily connect them to the various roles you’ve laid out. 

It can be tempting to create a lengthy list covering every single task imaginable but sometimes, less is more with a RACI chart. Try to think of the broad strategic objectives and milestones so as not to get too bogged down in the minutiae, which can make your chart hard to digest quickly.

Again, it’s important to be as thorough as possible, so nothing falls through the cracks.

3. Create a chart with a column for each role and a row for each task

Now, put the structure of your chart together using the vertical and horizontal axes to visualize all roles, responsibilities, and tasks.

One way to plot out your RACI chart is with Microsoft Excel since it will provide you with all the rows and columns you could ever need. Yet it can be more beneficial to set one up with a work management tool , and we’ll explain why later.

Once it’s all set up, you can edit it to fit your expectations. For example, you might like to color-code roles and responsibilities, add additional information, or leave a space at the bottom for relevant notes and comments.

4. Assign RACI to each role and task

When the RACI chart looks exactly how you want it, the next step is to assign the RACI to each role and task.

That means identifying who is:

• Responsible 
• Accountable
• To be consulted
• To be informed
• Deliverable

In practical terms, this means adding the letters R, A, C, and I into your chart where it makes sense to do so. 

For example, if your head of marketing has to be informed when you publish a blog post, find the head of marketing’s name on the top row and the task “publish blog post” on the left-hand column, then add the letter I in the corresponding box between them.

Bear in mind that not every task will require every letter. For instance, some may only require you to specify who’s responsible and accountable.

Typically, you should only have one person accountable for each task. If others are involved, then they should be consulted or informed.

5. Review with your team and all involved stakeholders

Finally, check in with your team and any involved stakeholders to go over your RACI chart. Review all the roles and tasks and make sure everything is on the same page.

This is a great opportunity to call a meeting and make sure you haven’t accidentally missed anything — or anyone. Ask your team and each member individually if they’re satisfied that the information is correct and that they know exactly what is expected of them.

As for any external stakeholders, meet with them and see if they have any input on how you’ve planned the project before you get underway. It’s best to get any feedback they have on board before you start the work since you can implement any suggestions they have without disrupting anything.

Make a point to set up a cadence for checking in with the RACI chart. It could be that you ask each team member to review the chart at least once a week if it’s a major project that will take several months.

The last thing to do will be to share access to the RACI chart so that everyone can view it. If you all work in the same office, you could even print out a copy and put it up on the wall for quick referencing.

RACI matrix rules and best practices 

If you want to make sure you create the best RACI matrix possible for the upcoming project and your team, there are some best practices you can follow:

• Establish project scope: When creating a RACI matrix, it’s important that you outline the scope of the project. With a clearly defined project scope, you can avoid scope creep and easily identify what the key tasks and activities will be.
• Use clear descriptions: If you want your RACI matrix to limit the potential for confusion and miscommunications, it starts with your descriptions. Leave no room for misinterpretation with your task and role outlines, so everyone is on the same page.
• Assign roles based on team experience: When assigning roles within a RACI matrix, factor in team expertise, skills, and overall experience. This will help ensure everything goes to plan.

RACI responsible vs. accountable 

Since responsible and accountable imply a similar role, it’s important to distinguish the two and have it clear in your mind what each term means within the context of your RACI matrix.

Here’s a brief overview of each:

• Responsible: Apply the responsible tag to team members who have to achieve a specific outcome such as completing a task
• Accountable: Apply the accountable tag to a single team member whose job it is to report to stakeholders with an update about a specific task

To summarize, you’re responsible if you have a task to complete, and you’re accountable if you have to check in with stakeholders with a progress update.  

RACI chart example

If you’re still a little unclear on what a RACI chart should look like, here’s a visual:

The RACI chart in this example is color-coded, which makes it easy for everyone to see what’s expected of them. This helps project managers visualize workload balance, so they can see if any team member has too much — or too little — on their plate.

RACI charts are just one tool project managers and PMOs can use to streamline project planning. If you’re curious about what other resources are out there for simplifying task management and execution, you can start your two-week free trial of Wrike’s project management solution today!

RACI chart real-life examples 

To give you a clear idea of what the RACI chart looks like in action, let’s take a look at two RACI examples.

Writing a white paper 

Let’s say the project in question is writing a white paper to outline your product’s features and how it can be used to solve a particular problem your customers may have.

With a RACI chart, you can plot out the whole process, from outlining to publishing the white paper. 

The main roles for this project would be:

• SEO specialist/agency

And the responsibilities would most likely include:

• Carrying out research and putting together an initial white paper draft
• Editing the draft to make sure it’s in line with your editorial standards
• Learning which keywords can help boost the white paper in search engine rankings
• Publishing the white paper

Now let’s see how the RACI chart would come together:

• R : The writer is responsible for writing the white paper
• A : The editor is accountable for making sure the white paper is fact-checked, error-free, and ready to publish
• C : The SEO specialist or agency is consulted to target particular keywords and boost the search engine ranking as much as possible
• I : The CMO is informed as to the status of the white paper and when it’s ready for publishing

Developing a software application

In our second example, we’re going to explore a more complex project: developing a new software application.

Let’s examine how you might use a RACI chart to develop a new software application.

Here are some likely roles:

•  Project manager
•  UI/UX designer
•  Developers
•  Testers
•  DevOps engineer
•  Technical writer

And responsibilities within the project:

•  Establishing app requirements
•  Designing the user interface
•  Executing both frontend and backend software development
•  Carrying out testing and quality assurance
•  Deploying the software
•  Writing up technical documentation

Your RACI chart would look something like this:

• R: The project manager and their team outline the core requirements for the app, so that the development process goes smoothly
• A: The developers are accountable for the frontend and backend app development
• C: Quality assurance experts and testers are consulted to ascertain how the software could be better
• I: The project manager and any stakeholders are informed once the app is ready to launch and the technical documentation has been drafted

RACI template: Streamline your project management

Creating a RACI chart or one of the several alternatives is one thing, but putting all the moving pieces together and setting up a reliable system for ongoing project success is another.

If you want to take your company-wide project planning and execution to the next level, it’s worth seeking out support in the form of a powerful project management solution. 

Introducing Wrike: a versatile and robust project management tool that can help you find clarity in your projects and ensure every team member is on the same page at all times.

So how exactly can you use Wrike’s features to implement and get the most out of RACI charts in your projects?

Assign and delegate roles

With a RACI chart in a spreadsheet or a sheet of grid paper, you have a snapshot of everyone involved in the project, their roles, and the tasks they’re responsible for.

What you don’t get is a system of assigning tasks that you can pull up along with notes and comments whenever you need, notifications that let you know when deadlines are approaching, and communication tools that allow team members to support each other and solicit information.

Wrike provides all of these features and much more.

From the moment you set up your RACI chart, you can assign the roles and responsibilities in Wrike and delegate tasks so that each team member knows what they should be working on at every moment.

Sync RACI with task management

Once your project is underway, project management can give way to task management . The process of managing individual tasks can be incredibly challenging if you don’t have a system in place to support you.

With Wrike, you can set up individual tasks that correspond with the activities your team identified when you made your RACI chart.

Wrike’s task management features break down your project into digestible tasks and notify you as they move through the custom statuses you assign. This also makes Wrike an excellent option for the RACI alternatives that include an approver role since they’ll have a straightforward way of approving and moving tasks along.

Plus, with Wrike’s 360-degree visibility, your project will be completely transparent, meaning external stakeholders can stay up to date.

Use the RACI model template

Finally, Wrike makes it effortless to set up a RACI chart, even if you have no experience with them.

The Wrike RACI model template allows you to kick-start your project the right way and prepare accordingly. 

Here’s what you can do with the Wrike RACI model template:

Identify roles and relationships

The Wrike RACI model template allows you to clearly outline all roles and responsibilities so that you can meet your project and timeline expectations every time. 

To further clarify the project details, you can use the template to:

• Set up dashboards to promote full project visibility from the outset
• View reports to summarize tasks and their statuses 
• Speed up the approval process with built-in automation

Ensure even workload distribution

One of the most significant challenges with any major project is ensuring an even workload across the board. The last thing you want is to pile undue pressure on a few individuals as they pick up the slack of others.

With the Wrike RACI model template, you can quickly and easily determine whether any team member has more than their fair share of work to complete and address the inequality accordingly.

Communicate and collaborate effectively

Finally, you can use Wrike’s RACI model template to streamline communication, as every project detail is clearly visualized for all team members. This helps create a coherent structure for each project you take on — one in which everyone understands the part they play.

The RACI chart is a popular tool in project management, as it helps project managers clarify roles and responsibilities. Yet it’s arguably even more useful in Agile processes, where there’s a need for cross-functional collaboration and it can be easy to get confused about who should be doing what.

Considering that Agile processes such as sprints require a lot of effort in a short space of time, you want to make sure everyone is moving in the same direction from the start. That’s where the RACI chart comes in.

Some teams will benefit more from the RACI project management chart than others, though, since it’s an extra element in the process that can slow down progress and potentially create more confusion. One of the disadvantages of the RACI matrix is that project progress can halt after every small milestone reached — for example, to check in with accountable parties — which might prove counterproductive.

What is the difference between a project plan and RACI? 

In short, a project plan is the roadmap for completing a project, whereas a RACI chart simply clarifies what each team member should do at every step of the way.

With a project plan template , you would consider factors such as:

•  Strategic alignment 
•  Tasks to complete
•  Team member involvement

Then, with a project schedule template , you would map out the timeline for your project and consider due dates, milestones, and other important factors.

With a RACI chart, you’re thinking more about how each team member fits into your project plan and schedule. Consider who will be responsible for the completion of individual tasks, who will be held to account, who you need to consult, and who needs to be informed along the way. 

RACI chart alternatives

Not every team or project type is well suited to the RACI chart and, as such, it’s a good idea to have a few alternatives at the ready.

Here are three RACI chart alternatives that serve a similar purpose but suit different needs:

The CARS model stands for:

• Communicate: Anyone who should be consulted or informed
• Approve: Anyone who approves requests and makes key decisions
• Responsible: Anyone who carries out the work
• Support : Anyone who supports the responsible individual in completing the tasks

The CARS model is different from the RACI chart in that it breaks everything down further, making it easier to differentiate and identify the nuance in various roles and responsibilities. The inclusion of the support category allows you to identify mentor-type roles or highlight small teams or individuals that will work closely together. 

With CARS, you could also argue that you forego any redundancy that the RACI chart model potentially creates. For example, it wraps the Consulted and Informed categories into one, assuming they convey a similar meaning.

Best for: Highlighting close working relationships where one party supports another

The DACI chart stands for:

• Driver : Anyone who does the work
• Approver : Anyone who approves requests
• Contributor : Anyone who contributes to or is consulted on a task
• Informed: Anyone who should be informed about the project’s ongoing status

If you’re looking for a more action-based model that outlines the main drivers of progress and the decision makers in the form of approvers, then the DACI chart might be a better fit than the RACI model.

Best for: Projects where someone will take the lead and guide the action forward, deliberately supported by approvers and contributors

RASCI matrix

The RASCI matrix stands for:

• Responsible: Anyone responsible for completing tasks
• Accountable: Anyone who is accountable for the project
• Supportive: Anyone who can lend a hand to the responsible team members
• Consulted: Anyone who should be consulted
• Informed: Anyone who should be informed about project progress

Similar to the CARS model, the RASCI model takes a similar approach to RACI but adds space for supportive roles. For some projects, it’s important that someone is waiting in the wings, ready to jump in and support a responsible team member when they’re required. 

The supportive role could be anything from a proofreader or editor who can co-author an article alongside the responsible writer, to an external agency that will provide resources or materials to assist the responsible team member.

This model accommodates that supportive role, thus going a step further than the standard RACI chart.

Best for: Standard projects that involve additional internal or external support

Wrike has all the features you need

Still undecided? Here are a few more ways you can use Wrike to create an effective RACI chart:

• Cross-tagging: With cross-tagging, you can avoid confusion between team members as everyone can see how their tasks align with your overall strategic objectives. This allows all team members to visualize the process, and who to report to at every stage.
• Dashboards: Real-time dashboards allow project managers and stakeholders to track project progress and check that the RACI matrix is being used as planned.
• Automation: Task automation and triggers allow for a frictionless project management experience . Team members can pass completed tasks onto the accountable, consulted, or informed parties with the simple click of a button.

With the aforementioned RACI chart template and the above powerful work management features, Wrike has everything you need to simplify the process of creating your own matrix. And the best news? You can try Wrike for free for 2 weeks!

Try our RACI template

Samuel Christopher Dixon

Samuel is a freelance writer who specializes in SaaS and e-commerce.

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Understanding the Responsibility Assignment Matrix (RACI Matrix)

The Responsibility Assignment Matrix also referred to as RACI Matrix or Responsibility Accountability Matrix is a key tool an organization can use to ensure successful completion of projects. The matrix helps managers know who plays what role or performs which duties during a project.

If this isn’t clearly defined it can lead to a common problem when carrying out projects, where conflicts arise over who is to do what, some team members having more workload, understaffing of the project and so on. That is why the RACI matrix comes in handy in project management . By developing the matrix a manager can ensure everybody knows what is expected of them and team members stick to specific roles assigned to them, therefore avoiding confusion and problems in the project.

The Four Roles in RACI Matrix

RACI is an acronym for Responsible, Accountable, Consulted and Informed  the four roles team members can be assigned in a project. In the matrix, tasks are listed in the first column and project members in the top row of the table.

The Acronym RACI Stands For:

Responsible (r).

This refers to the individual who will perform a task. Each task has to have at least one person who completes it. If an R is missing in any of the matrix rows that task has not been assigned to anyone creating a gap that needs to be filled immediately. For tasks, they can be several people expected to perform it who then report to the person accountable.

Accountable (A)

This is the individual who is ultimately answerable for the decisions to be made for a task. They most likely are the project manager or a senior official who have final say over the tasks. To be efficient the number of people accountable for each task should not be many. For most projects one listed accountable person is ideal.

Consulted (C)

This is the go-to person for advice on the project.  They should be an expert on matters relating to the project whose opinion is sort before making final decisions or taking certain action. For example, if you are working on technical tasks consultations with the IT administrator for expert advice will be necessary. The number of consultants per task, however, should be minimum. Too many C’s may prolong a task because of a lot of unnecessary deliberations and they might be a risk of poor plan execution.

Informed (I)

These are people in the team who have to be updated on the project progress or decisions. These individuals are in most cases informed once a task is completed and then take the necessary next step i.e. to mark that project as done, once update. Communication with the informed is usually one-way and they don’t contribute directly to the task.

Creating a RACI Matrix (Step-By-Step)

• Identify all project tasks and activities and put this on the left-hand side of the matrix according to how they will be completed.
• Identify all the individuals and groups involved in the project and list them at the top of the chart.
• Figure out who does what-This is a very crucial part of the formation of the matrix. Here the project manager identifies the people to be assigned to each task. While doing this ensure you match skill sets to tasks.
• Develop the matrix- At this stage, you assign team members their association . They will either be Responsible, Accountable, Consulted or Informed for each task. Best practice dictates that you start with the “R’s”- because they are the people performing the tasks necessary to complete the project. Then move on to the “A’s” who are ultimately answerable for the process. Finally, assign the “C’s” and ‘I’s” individuals who have no direct responsibility in the project but are needed for it to succeed.
• Share and discuss the RACI Matrix- when done constructing the matrix send it out to the team members involved and ask for feedback. From their feedback make any necessary changes. By doing this you will be ensuring you haven’t left anything important out and all involved are clear about what is required of them. The final matrix should be one that all stakeholders agree on before starting work on the process.

RACI Example

A company is working on developing an App that will boost its online sales. David is developing this App that will run on software developed by Mark. Simon is overseeing the project as manager and Irene is in marketing. David has the task of coming up with the App so in the matrix, he is the Responsible person. Simon is Accountable and Mark needs to be consulted because his software will run the App. Finally, Irene needs to be informed when the App is ready so that she can take the next step and promote it.

Questions to Ask Before Finalizing Your RACI Matrix

To be certain assignments are reasonable to ask these questions

• Are too many responsibilities given to one person? If so should they be given to someone else?
• Does every task have an appropriate number of consulted and informed?
• Does every role have a responsible and accountable person?
• In the case of complex tasks can smooth decision making be done by one accountable person or should there be more than one to ease decision making?

Once you answer these questions positively you can begin working with your matrix. That, however, doesn’t mean that the matrix should remain the same to the conclusion of the project. You have to constantly re-evaluate it and make changes when the need arises due to work changes over time.

Variations of RACI Matrix

They are other Responsibility Assignment models that add on to this matrix. Examples include :

RASIC – This has the RACI Matrix associations Responsible, Accountable, Consulted and Informed but adds a 5 th association which is Supportive. These are individuals tasked with assisting the responsible party to perform the task.

RACIO – Also has a Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, Informed person but also includes Omitted. This is employees not involved in a task. This helps give clarity and ownership of roles.

RACI-VS – Here two more associations are also included. The two are “Verify” and “Sign off”. Verify, this means reviewing a task at the end to ensure it has been done and completed properly. Sign Off mostly happens at the very end and gives a seal of approval that a task has concluded successfully. These two steps should not be done for all project tasks, it should only be for tasks that absolutely require it.

As a project manager having a RACI Matrix will make you confident that roles and responsibilities are clearly defined for the team. Every task has a person doing it and duplication of work is unlikely to happen.

One of the best things the RACI Matrix helps get rid of is the passing of blame amongst team members because if work is not done it is very clear where the buck stops and who is letting the others down. The RACI Matrix is a good project management tool but it should be noted that it cannot address issues such as poor teamwork or low morale among employees for that you would have to figure out how to motivate the group, maybe by giving rewards for a successful project.

About Sonia Kukreja

I am a mother of a lovely kid, and an avid fan technology, computing and management related topics. I hold a degree in MBA from well known management college in India. After completing my post graduation I thought to start a website where I can share management related concepts with rest of the people.

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