RACI Matrix
DE: RACI-Matrix
A chart assigning roles: Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, Informed.
Detailed Explanation
The RACI Matrix is a responsibility assignment matrix that defines roles for every task or deliverable. R = Responsible (does the work), A = Accountable (has final authority and approves), C = Consulted (provides input before the work), I = Informed (notified after the work is done).
Every task should have exactly one A (Accountable). Multiple Rs are possible but should be limited. The matrix prevents confusion about who does what, who approves, and who needs to be kept in the loop. It is especially valuable in matrix organizations where resources report to multiple managers.
The RACI matrix is typically created during planning and displayed as a grid with tasks/deliverables on rows and team roles/names on columns. It should be reviewed by all parties for agreement and updated when roles change.
Key Points
- R = Responsible (does the work), A = Accountable (approves/owns)
- C = Consulted (input before), I = Informed (notified after)
- Every task must have exactly one A
- Prevents role confusion in complex projects
- Especially valuable in matrix organizations
- Created during planning, reviewed by all parties
Practical Example
For a website launch: 'Content Creation' — Marketing is R, CMO is A, Legal is C, Dev team is I. 'Security Audit' — IT Security is R, CTO is A, Dev Lead is C, PM is I. The RACI matrix is posted in the project workspace and referenced whenever there is confusion about ownership.
Tips for Learning and Applying
Ensure exactly one A per task — if nobody is accountable, nobody owns it
Limit Rs — too many responsible people means diffused ownership
Review the RACI with all parties before finalizing
Use RACI to resolve conflicts early — it makes implicit expectations explicit
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