Preparing A RACI Matrix

Following are the steps that should be performed while preparing a RACI matrix:

STEP 1: Identification:

a) Identify and list all the activities or processes that are in scope of the RACI definition exercise.

b) Identify or define and list all functional roles that are or could be required for performing the identified activities or processes.

STEP 2: Definition:

Conduct meetings with all identified functional roles and assign RACI codes for each listed activity or process. Draft RACI matrix is prepared.

STEP 3: Verification:

a) Identify gaps or overlaps in the draft matrix and take steps to eliminate the same.

b) Distribute RACI matrix to concerned functional roles for their review and feedback.

c)  Incorporate the feedbacks provided.

STEP 4: Control:

Ensure that allocations as defined in RACI are being followed. This can be ensured by performing periodic audits.

RACI Matrix

RACI is a matrix that is used to assign and describe responsibilities of roles in completing any task or activity.

RACI stand for Responsible Accountable Consulted Informed.

Responsible: Role that does the work in order to complete a task or activity. Typically one role will be Responsible for an activity.

Accountable: Role that is the final approving authority and has the overall accountability for completion of an activity. They approve the work that Responsible does. There must be only one Accountable specified for a task or activity.

Consulted: Role that is consulted for seeking opinion or advice on a task or an activity. There is a two-way communication with this role.

Informed: Role that is kept up-to-date on progress or completion of a task or activity. There is a one-way communication with this role.

SAMPLE RACI MATRIX:

	Role A	Role B	Role C	Role D	Role E
Activity 1	AR	C	I
Activity 2	A	R	I	I	C
Activity 3	I	C	C	AR
Activity 4		AR	C		I
Activity 5	I	I	AR	C	I

 EXTENDED FORMS OF RACI

a) RASCI:  Extended form of RACI where ‘S’ stands for Supportive or Support. It is the role that provides support or assists in implementing the task or activity.

b) RACI - VS:  Extended form of RACI where ‘V’ stands for Verifies and ‘S’ stands for Sign-off.

Verifies: Role that checks if the acceptance criteria has been met.

Signs-Off: Role that approves the Verify decision and gives the final sign-off for handing over the task or activity.

C) RACI - O:  Extended form of RACI where ‘O’ stands for Omitted. It specifies that that role is not part of the task.