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Responsibility assignment matrix and RACI

Short answer

A RAM links project roles to WBS work packages, clarifying who does what. The RACI chart uses Responsible (does work), Accountable (approves, only one), Consulted (gives input), and Informed (kept updated) for each task, ensuring no overlaps or gaps.

What do you mean by responsibility assignment matrix (RAM)? Explain it by sketching a RACI chart.

A Responsibility Assignment Matrix (RAM) is a grid that shows the project resources assigned to each work package of the WBS. It links people, roles or organisational units to the work, so that every task has a clear owner and nobody is confused about responsibility. The RAM at the work-package level is a table of work against people.

A RACI chart is the most common RAM. RACI means:

  • Responsible: does the work (can be several).
  • Accountable: ultimately answerable and approves; only one per task.
  • Consulted: gives input before the work (two-way).
  • Informed: kept updated after (one-way).

Sample RACI chart (website project)

ActivityProject managerBusiness analystDeveloperTesterSponsor
Prepare charterRCIIA
Gather requirementsARCIC
Design databaseICR/ACI
Develop modulesACRII
Test systemACCRI
Final acceptanceRIICA

Rules

  • Each row must have exactly one A.
  • At least one R per row.
  • Avoid too many C and I that slow decisions.
  • Columns with too many R suggest overload.

Benefits

  • Clarifies roles and avoids duplication or gaps.
  • Improves communication, accountability and coordination.
  • Detects overloaded persons.
  • Helps team understand their expected contribution.
  • Useful in matrix organisations.
WBS work package  x  Person / role  =  R, A, C, I

Other forms of RAM include RASCI, RAEW and a resource assignment chart. RAM is part of the human resource plan.

✓ Answer checked by Claude Opus 5.5 (high effort)

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