No, RACI is not the acronym for Rire Avec ses Collègues c’est Indispensable (Laughing With Colleagues Is Essential)… unfortunately.
RACI rather stands for Responsible (Responsible), Accountable (Approver), Consulted (Consulted), Informed (Informed). It is a matrix primarily used to clearly define the role of each person in specific tasks or even in complete project phases.
Specifically,
Responsible is the person who is 100% in charge of carrying out the work or task properly.
Accountable is generally the quality control agent responsible for ensuring that all details of the request are properly handled. At our agency, the person who often takes on the role of Responsible frequently becomes the Approver.
Consulted is the person who must be consulted in the process. This is also the person with whom we will brainstorm or bounce ideas off to find the best solution to achieve our goals.
Informed is the person who is not directly involved in the task but must still be aware of its progressn, potential issues related to it, and eventually, its completion. Unlike larger organizations, at our agency, the informed person is often the one who requested the task.
At TREIZE, we utilize this model on two levels: internally and externally.
Let’s start by explaining how we use the RACI matrix within the agency.
The RACI matrix in a web agency
Of course, for a task to be accomplished efficiently and clearly, it is essential to properly define everyone’s role. In a website project, as in daily tasks, it is mandatory to fill in the RACI fields before submitting the task to the Responsible party.
In 4 simple clicks, we can determine who should lead, who should give the thumbs up, who should be our coach, and who simply needs to be kept informed.
Since implementing this internal model, we have seen significant improvement in the accountability of our team members. Indeed, clearly defining who does what at the beginning of each task helps prevent duplicate work and ensures that each team member’s responsibilities are clear. The notorious grey areas are also becoming increasingly narrow, which has allowed us to improve our efficiency in communication and task management.
The RACI matrix in collaboration with a client
When collaborating with clients, it is equally essential to establish everyone’s roles and responsibilities (especially when multiple people are involved in the same project).
At TREIZE, we address this topic from day 1. In fact, during our kick-off meeting with a client, we always take the time to fill out the table presented below. 
PSST. If you don’t already have a similar tool, be our guest and download this example!
With clients, we adopt a more macro approach where roles and responsibilities are shared by project phase. Using small virtual post-its, we identify who from TREIZE or the client will be assigned (and at what level) to each project phase.
Expectations are thus defined from the first meeting, which allows the collaboration to begin on solid foundations. It is also at this point that we take the opportunity to explain in more detail what each project phase entails and to identify those that require the most effort from clients.
With all cards on the table, it’s now time to get to work!
In summary, the RACI matrix is an essential management tool for our team. Since its implementation, we have only positive things to say.
And you, we are curious to know if you use this matrix or what your management method is for clearly identifying everyone’s role in their daily work?
