RASCI/ RACI: what are the key differences

The RASCI, RACI matrices were introduced in the latter part of the 20th century. Their development was gradual and evolved within the context of project management methodologies over time and aren’t accredited to a single person. The matrices are simple yet highly effective visual tools for project management and are generally used interchangeably. In this article we provide you with a quick overview of RASCI, RACI matrices, their definitions, and key differences. 

Definition of the RASCI Matrix

RASCI is a variation of the RACI matrix, a visual tool designed to help project managers define the roles and responsibilities of each stakeholder in a project. It helps teams organize and allocate roles and tasks, while serving as a foundation and reference for all individuals involved in the project. Its primary objective lies in mitigating uncertainties and eliminating duplicates in roles. 

RASCI, is an English acronym comprising five distinct attributes.

• Responsible (R): This person or group is responsible for completing the task or activity. They’re the ones who do the work.
• Accountable (A): This is the person who ultimately owns the task or activity. They’re the ones who make sure that the work gets done and that it meets the required standards.
• Support (S): Individuals actively involved in collaborating with the project leader.
• Consulted (C): These are the people or groups who need to be consulted or provide input before a decision or action is taken. They may have valuable insights or expertise related to the task.
• Informed (I): These are the people or groups who need to be kept informed about the progress or outcome of the task or activity. They may not be directly involved in doing the work, but they need to know what’s happening.

Each of these attributes corresponds to a degree of involvement of the participants in the tasks to be accomplished.

The RACI matrix just like RASCI is a tool for assigning tasks to the different actors and stakeholders of a project. It is a method of managing complex projects and processes that helps different team members remember their level of responsibility.

Example of a RACI matrix

Outlined below is a typical project within a SaaS technology company, engaging key players like the CIO, CTO, CEO, Project Managers, Sales Team, Marketing Team, and other stakeholders.

The project: Launching a New SaaS Product Feature.

1. Responsible (R)
2. Accountable (A)
3. Consulted (C)
4. Informed (I)

What are the key differences?

1. The most obvious difference between the two matrices is addition of the support (S) role in RASCI. This role refers to individuals who can substitute for or assist the responsible (R) party. It can be seen as an expert with a more active and involved role than a simple consultant, for example.
2. Both matrices help determine orphaned activities or unassigned tasks. But, RASCI matrix tends to be used for more complex projects. They both assist in identifying potential duplicates, but also the unwarranted multiplication of individuals to be informed or consulted.
3. By using the approaches, you can analyze the workload per role and better allocate resources. It also helps reduce conflicts related to the ambiguity of assignments or non-assignments. RACI is better suited to smaller projects that require little flexibility.

As you embark on your next project, consider integrating RASCI/RACI matrices into your toolkit. These free and invaluable tools could serve as the catalyst for empowering your team and elevating your projects.

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