The RACI Matrix

Unless you are deeply involved with ITIL or project management, you've probably not had much opportunity to use a RACI matrix. If you've never used or even heard of a RACI matrix, you're probably wondering what it is and what it can do for you.

In an nutshell, a RACI matrix is a two dimensional diagram (see below) that shows the role assignments for the resources participating in a project or process. RACI (pronounced ray'•see) is an acronym for the four most commonly used roles—Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, and Informed. The definitions of these roles are:

• Responsible – This is the resource responsible for performing the work for the outcome or task. There is typically one resource with this assignment for each task, although the work effort can be delegated to others.
  
  
• Accountable – The resource who ensures the work is completed satisfactorily. This resource may or may not perform the task work. There should be exactly one resource with this assignment for each task/outcome.
  
  
• Consulted – These are resources whose opinions are sought. This is a two-way communication, and is mutually exclusive with Informed.
  
  
• Informed – These are resources who are kept informed on progress. This is a one-way communication, and is mutually exclusive with Consulted.

RACI Matrix

	Resource A	Resource B	Resource C	Resource D
Task 1	R	A	C	I
Task 2	R/A
Task 3	A	R	I
Task 4	R	A		C

In the sample above, the left-hand column contains the tasks or outcomes, and the top row contains the resources (functional roles or people). The role type code in the intersecting cell defines the role for that task and resource. For example, Resource B is assigned the responsible (R) role for Task 3.

Generally, each resource is assigned a single role. The only acceptable exception is that the resource with the accountable (A) role may also be assigned a responsible (R) role. Otherwise, a resource should only be assigned one role for each task/outcome.

Variations On A Theme

Some practitioners use an alternative set of definitions for the RACI matrix that switches the meanings of the R and A codes (C and I are the same). This alternative definition is used in cases where the terms responsible and accountable might cause some confusion. These alternative R and A code definitions are:

• Responsible – The resource responsible for the successful completion of the task. This resource may or may not perform the task work. There should be exactly one resource with this assignment for each task.
• Assists – The resources who assist in completing the task. There may be one or more resources with this assignment for each task. These resources may do all or only some of the work.

There are several other variations of the RACI matrix that include different or additional codes/roles. Some of these versions are used for specific applications such as decision authorizations, and others expand on the basic RACI use. An example of an expanded version is the RACI-VS or VARISC matrix that adds a V to verify that the task/outcome meets acceptance criteria, and S for the person that signs off and approves the task/outcome.

Another variety of the RACI matrix is the Responsibility Assignment Matrix or RAM. Similar to the RACI matrix, a RAM is primarily used in project management and is recommended by the Project Management Institute for assigning activities to resources. The RAM may also use a RACI-VS or RASCI matrix model (the latter adds a supportive role with the S code).

In Summary

A RACI matrix clarifies the roles and responsibilities in cross-functional and departmental projects and processes. In ITIL, a RACI matrix defines the functional roles and responsibilities for performing the activities and producing the outcomes of the various ITIL processes.

Including RACI diagrams in operational documentation (procedures and work instructions) adds pictorial clarity to operational roles and responsibilities. For project management, a RACI matrix is invaluable for clearly defining stakeholder roles and responsibilities for the work breakdown structure (WBS) tasks, outcomes and deliverables.

For more information and references on the RACI matrix, see this Wikipedia entry.

By Harry Hiles, HBH Technology LLC — 5 Apr 2009

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