The RASCI Matrix is a simple tool that brings structure and clarity to assigning the roles people play within a project team. It is a simple grid system that project managers can use to clarify people’s responsibilities and ensure that everything the team needs to do is taken care of.
Using this tool, the project manager can list all the project work and clarifies who is responsible, who is accountable, who is supporting, and where appropriate, who needs to be consulted or informed.
The acronym RASCI stands for:
- R = Responsible
- A = Accountable
- S = Supports
- C = Consulted
- I = Informed
Responsible– these people are the “doers” of the project work. They must complete the task or objective or make the decision. Only one person can be responsible. Although, others can be delegated to support in the work assigned.
Accountable (or authorize)– this person is the “owner” of the work. He or she must sign off or approve when the task, objective or decision is complete. This person must make sure that responsibilities are assigned in the matrix for all related activities. For each task or objective, only be one person can be accountable.
Supports – The role of these people is to provide support to the person responsible for the task or activity. There could be more than one person with this role, they provide resources, information, or general support to help get the work done.
Consulted (or collaborate) – these are the people who need to give input before the work can be done and signed-off on. These people are “in the loop” and whose opinions or collaboration is sought, and with whom there is two-way communication.
Informed – these people need to be kept “in the picture.” They need updates on progress or decision, but they do not need to be formally consulted, nor do they contribute directly to the task or decision. These people are kept up to date on progress, often only on completion of the task or deliverable; and with whom there is just one-way communication.
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