The RACI model clearly lays out roles and responsibilities for any activity or group of activities. Here are the basic elements of a RACI model –
- Job functions or titles are noted across the top, such as “IT,” “Human Resources,” “Project Manager,” etc.
- Tasks or responsibilities are noted down the left hand side, such as “Conduct weekly communication meeting with sales team,” or “Analyze prior-month performance and send out summary the first week of each month.”
- The cells inside the RACI model or chart are filled in based on the following criteria –
- R = Responsible = The person who performs the work. There must be one “R” on every row, no more and no less. “R” is the only letter that must appear in each row.
- A = Accountable = The person ultimately accountable for the work or decision being made. Use this letter where appropriate, but not to excess – only when a key decision or task is at hand. There can be from zero to one “A’s” in each row, but no more than one.
- C = Consulted = Anyone who must be consulted with prior to a decision being made and/or the task being completed. There can be as many “C’s” as are appropriate in each row.
- I = Informed = Anyone who must be informed when a decision is made or work is completed. There can be as many “I’s” as are appropriate in each row.
Here is a high-level view of the RACI model. See our home page or templates page for an actual example.
