How to make every project a success with the RASCI model

In your organisation, employees are working on so many projects at the same time, such as implementing new software, achieving a standard and developing new protocols. In all those projects, colleagues might have different roles or responsibilities. You want to create clarity and structure regarding those responsibilities. Is this recognisable?

The RACI or RASCI model offers the solution. In this article, you will read how the RACI model helps you bring complex projects to a successful conclusion, what benefits the model offers and get practical tips on how to start using the model effectively in your organisation.

What is the RACI or RASCI model?

First things first: let us first zoom in on the meaning of the RACI model. The model is a tool that is used to record the roles and responsibilities of employees in a project or process, so that there is no confusion about this afterwards.

The principle of the RACI model is that every colleague collaborating on a project has certain roles, tasks and responsibilities. With the model, improvement teams can establish a clear structure and communication, allowing you to achieve goals more efficiently. This way, colleagues working together on a project know what their tasks are and can successfully execute and monitor them.

The acronym ‘RACI’ stands for Responsible, Accountable, Consultend and Informed, the four main roles in this model:

What is the difference between the RACI and RASCI models?

Often also referred to as the ‘RASCI’ model’. This means adding an extra role to the RACI model, namely the ‘Support’ role. This role is intended for colleagues who assist the responsible person(s). This gives more clarity on who is actively involved in the implementation, besides the person in charge.This role is particularly useful on more complex projects where multiple people help to complete tasks.

5 advantages of the RASCI model

If you apply the RASCI model properly, it offers several advantages in quality and risk management projects. We list the five most important ones for you:

1. Clarity in responsibilities

Thanks to the RASCI model, you can assign clear responsibilities to employees. This prevents misunderstandings and conflicts. Because by agreeing exactly who is responsible (R), who is ultimately responsible (A), who only takes up supporting tasks (S), who is consulted (C) and finally who needs to be informed (I), you create a clear project structure. This way, you avoid duplication of work and important tasks are not forgotten.

2. More efficient risk management

Especially with complex projects, you want to respond quickly and effectively to risks. The RASCI model helps to quickly identify the right people for different parts of your risk management. This allows you to respond to risks faster and proactively – which improves the project’s risk position.

3. Better cooperation and clear communication

There is nothing more annoying than thinking that someone will pick up a particular task, only to find out after a few weeks that this has not happened… Thus, the whole project is delayed. The RASCI model reduces working in silos and ensures that all colleagues involved work together effectively.

4. A greater sense of responsibility

By defining a person ultimately responsible for the project (A), you increase the sense of responsibility. One person is the point of contact and is ultimately responsible for the success of the project. You can thus rely on clear lines of accountability, ensuring the consistency of your quality process.

5. Implementing quality improvements

By clarifying who has what responsibility, you can implement improvement initiatives around quality, for example, systematically and effectively, leading to continuous improvement of your business processes.

Roadmap: Implementing the RASCI model

You now know what the acronym ‘RASCI’ stands for and are familiar with its benefits. When you start working with the RASCI model, you need to take a structured approach to benefit from it. Below is a handy roadmap to successfully apply the model to your project.

1. Define the tasks

Make a list of all tasks to be carried out during the project and make sure the tasks are defined as specifically as possible, clearly and measurably.

2. Define the roles

Who will be involved in the project? Take into account all possible stakeholders, such as team members, managers and but also external parties.

3. Assign roles to tasks

Here, use the RASCI matrix to assign different roles to each task. Below is an example of what this looks like in practice.

4. Communicate the RASCI model

Very good that you have completed the matrix – but don’t forget to share this with all stakeholders as well, because then everyone is unlikely to stick to their responsibilities. Make sure everyone understands what is expected.

5. Implement the model and follow up

The project can begin! Schedule regular consultations and grab the RASCI model regularly to discuss progress and resolve any challenges.

6. Evaluate and adjust

In between, measure the effectiveness of the model and don’t be afraid to make adjustments if circumstances demand it. Also ask for feedback from project members – as this will help you improve the model.

7. Document

Document and archive the RASCI matrix and other relevant documentation for subsequent projects.

8. Train and support your colleagues

Your project team needs to understand the RASCI model. Do they need help? Then offer regular training on the subject, for example.

In conclusion

We hope the RASCI model will create calm and overview for you and your colleagues on your next project. Keep in mind that you need to keep people engaged if you want the model to succeed. Make sure you keep communicating and provide regular updates. Also, don’t be afraid to adjust the RASCI model if necessary – because projects and circumstances do change. In practice, our Zenya experts unfortunately regularly see teams blindly staring at the model and thinking in boxes as a result.

When the model does succeed? If you don’t apply it too statically. We also recommend not cramming RASCI matrices (too) full of information. Keep it clear and understandable for everyone. After reading this article, are you eager to get started with the RASCI model?With Zenya, you get all the tools you need to take your project to the next level.