RACI Chart

A RACI chart (RACI matrix) clarifies roles and responsibilities, making sure that nothing falls through the cracks.  RACI charts also prevent confusion by assigning clear ownership for tasks and decisions.

RACI charting is easy (here’s the Excel file for the one below).

The following RACI chart was made by a plant manager and his staff for a parking lot repaving project –

RACI chart example

The first three lines in the above RACI chart illustrate each of the R, A, C, and I definitions:

Task or DecisionR, A, C, and I
Identify ContractorsThe first task is to identify outside contractors to quote on the job.  This responsibility (R) falls to the project manager, meaning that she will do the work.  The project manager must consult (C) with her boss, the facilities manager, while completing this task.  In other words, the facilities manager needs to have a say in how the three contractors are selected for quotes.
Arrange for Contractor Visits and QuotesThe project manager is responsible (R) for meeting with the contractors and obtaining their quotes.  In this case the facilities manager only needs to be kept informed (I), so the project manager is free to complete this task without any oversight – she simply needs to keep the facilities manager in the communication loop.
Select a ContractorThis is a big decision that will result in a large cash outlay going to a contractor.  Once again, the project manager is responsible for  reviewing the quotes and making a recommendation, but the facilities manager is accountable (A) for the decision.  In other words, the “buck stops” at the facilities manager if any problems arise with the contractor who was selected for the job.  Also in this case, the plant manager and human resources manager must be kept informed (I) regarding the contractor selection.

Notice also how a RACI chart encourages strong communication between team members with the Informed and Consulted roles.  In the hectic environment that most businesses operate in, this communication will oftentimes be neglected without a tool like RACI.

RACI charts are simple yet powerful tools for assigning clear ownership and communication responsibilities for any situation – give them a try!

Jump to –

Tips on completing the Excel template
R-A-C-I definitions
RACI training file (PPT)