In a work environment where operators, managers, and engineers collaborate to optimize processes and ensure safety, it is extremely important that everyone knows their responsibilities. Without this clarity, tasks can be left undone, decision-making slows down, and misunderstandings can lead to errors and downtime. Creating clarity in roles and responsibilities is therefore essential. The RACI matrix is a powerful tool to help achieve this. In this blog, we explain how the RACI matrix is applied and what a basic RACI model looks like.
What does RACI stand for?
Want to see at a glance who has which role in a project or process? The RACI matrix is the perfect tool. But what does RACI stand for? The RACI model consists of four types of roles: Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, and Informed—abbreviated as RACI. These roles can be assigned to employees or positions for a specific task or activity that needs to be carried out. The RACI model is also referred to as the roles and functions matrix or the roles and responsibilities matrix, reflecting its purpose. By linking the four RACI roles clearly to various tasks, a clear picture emerges of who does what and who holds final responsibility. Let’s take a closer look at each role in the RACI matrix.
Responsible
Someone assigned the role of “Responsible” is responsible for actually carrying out the task. This must be done according to the agreed standards and deadlines. In practice, Responsible employees in a production environment are often operators, technicians, or other specialists. This role is primarily about performing the activities. An important feature of this role in the RACI matrix is that multiple people can be Responsible for the same task—for example, a maintenance task where several mechanics work together.
Accountable
The person who makes the final decision and ensures that a task is completed correctly and fully is the “Accountable” employee. Unlike the Responsible role, there can only be one person Accountable for a task to prevent confusion. This could be a team leader, production manager, or project leader. The Accountable person does not perform the work themselves but monitors progress, quality, and the final result. By clearly distinguishing between Responsible and Accountable roles, frustration is avoided and tasks are not left undone.
Consulted
People who provide expertise or advice during the execution of a task are assigned the role of ‘Consulted’. Consulted employees are frequently asked for input before decisions are made or actions are carried out. In practice, this could be a quality employee, safety coordinator, or engineer. They provide valuable input to ensure the work is carried out safely, efficiently, and according to the correct standards. For this role in the RACI matrix, it is essential that advice is sought in a timely manner to prevent avoidable errors in the process.
Informed
Someone who does not directly influence execution or decision-making but needs to be kept updated on the progress of a task is assigned the role of; Informed’. In a factory, this could include operators on the next shift, planners, or the logistics department. They do not need to advise or decide but must know when a process change has been implemented or a task completed. By keeping these people informed, misunderstandings and delays on the production line are prevented.
What are the benefits of the RACI model?
Applying a clear roles and responsibilities matrix offers many advantages for both small teams and larger organizations. Without such a responsibilities matrix, confusion, errors, frustration, and delays can arise. By implementing a simple RACI model, you can benefit from:
- Clarity and structure – Everyone knows their role.
- Better collaboration – Teams understand how they complement each other.
- Less duplicate work – Responsibilities do not overlap unnecessarily.
- Faster decision-making – It is clear who can and may make decisions.
- Higher engagement – Employees know what is expected of them.
- Better communication – The right people are consulted or informed.
How to create a RACI table
Creating a RACI table is easier than it may seem. The most important thing is to clearly map all involved tasks and roles and then agree on who will take which role. It is recommended that this process is guided by someone with an overview, such as a project manager. Together, follow these five steps to complete the RACI table:
Step 1: Make a list of all tasks or activities within a project or process.
Step 2: List all involved functions or people at the top of the matrix.
Step 3: For each task, indicate who is Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, and Informed.
Step 4: Discuss the matrix with the team and adjust where necessary.
Step 5: Use the matrix as a flexible document. Update it whenever there are changes in the process or team.
RACI matrix template
To ensure that the RACI matrix always looks consistent, you can use a RACI matrix template. A standard template also makes filling out the table much more efficient. For example, in a production environment, you could use the following template:
| Activity | Operator | Team Leader | Engineer | Safety Coordinator | Manager |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prepare installation | |||||
| Test machine | |||||
| Perform safety check | |||||
| Train operators | |||||
| Official handover |
You can also choose, within small teams, to replace job titles with individual names. Then, for each activity, indicate which role is responsible. For example, the operator could be Responsible for preparing the installation.
Example of a RACI matrix
Suppose you start a project in your factory to commission a new machine. A RACI matrix example could look like this:
| Activity | Operator | Team Leader | Engineer | Safety Coordinator | Manager |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prepare installation | I | A | R | C | I |
| Test machine | R | A | C | C | I |
| Perform safety check | I | C | R | A | I |
| Train operators | R | A | C | I | I |
| Official handover | I | C | C | I | A |
Questions about the RACI matrix? Contact us!
Would you like to learn more about how to use the responsibilities matrix in your factory or team? Or are you curious how EZ Factory can help create clarity, accountability, and efficiency on the shop floor? Get to know EZ-GO and contact us today!