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What is a RASCI matrix?

A RASCI matrix is a valuable tool used in software development project management. It is a framework that helps to define the roles and responsibilities of a project before it begins. The intention of using such a matrix is to make the project more efficient and productive and to keep a team working seamlessly together. 

The definition of a  RASCI matrix and how to use it are both vital pieces of knowledge for those in the software development field. A software development company can add a lot of value to their business through effective use of the model. 

So, let’s learn more about it. 

 

What does RASCI stand for? 

R – Responsible

A – Accountable

S – Supportive

C – Consulted

I – Informed 

This acronym defines roles that need to be included in the structure of a software development team. As development projects can so often be complex and multifaceted, assigning these roles helps to make a project cohesive and smooth-flowing. Knowing who is responsible for what makes a big difference when it comes to steady, sustainable, and measurable progress throughout development. 

Assigning such roles helps to reduce conflict, eliminate inefficiency, and stop projects from turning into a “blame game” in which accountability is shifted back and forward. Defining roles within a RASCI matrix keeps everything crystal clear for the entire team. 

The roles within a RASCI matrix 

Let’s look into those RASCI roles in a little more detail. 

 

R – Responsible. Someone in this role is responsible for the completion and success of a certain project. This is usually a product owner. It can also be used to define who is responsible for certain individual tasks, too. If someone is responsible for a task, then they will be held to count for its completion and accuracy to requirement. It may be multiple people at one time. 

 

A – Accountable. The accountable role in a RASCI matrix is only given to one person at any given time. Someone accountable for a task or project is held to account for its entire process. They have a bigger-picture role that includes delegation and team management. Decision-making and final approval are important aspects of the accountable role. 

 

S – Supportive. Someone in a supportive role in a development team provides support to those in a responsible role. This support can come in all shapes and sizes and will depend on project needs. They help to provide the right resources and backup when necessary. Sometimes we see this letter cut out of the acronym, often as some teams may not have the resources to have supporting roles or may not feel it necessary in their project. 

 

C – Consulted. Consultancy is becoming a more prominent aspect of software development. Consulting roles in a RASCI matrix help provide expert knowledge and perspective to decisions made and work planned in a project. They can help bridge the gap between client requirements and project end results. Having ‘consulted’ members in a project can really boost how accurate those results are. 

 

I – Informed. A person in an informed role must be kept up-to-date on progress and movement throughout a project. People in responsible roles will often make this happen. This will involve a process of continuous information right from the project’s beginning to its completion. 

How does a RASCI matrix work?

The roles of a RASCI matrix are used to plan a project’s progress. A chart is used to break up a project into tasks and then define who is responsible for those tasks. 

The chart structure is very simple and allows a complicated project to be broken down into much more manageable and accessible chunks. Having a team in a software development company follow this structure ensures that every member of the team knows exactly what they are doing and what they are responsible for. This kind of structure works efficiently for both small and large projects. 

Defining such a structure and delivering it to your team before a project begins allows for: 

  • Streamlined and consistent communication 
  • Consistency and clarity
  • Consistent progress
  • High-quality results 
  • Team satisfaction 
  • Lack of confusion or miscommunication 
  • Adherence to deadlines 
  • Teamwork and co-operation 

Everything that a software development project needs to be successful. 

Find your team of tech experts 

 

At 6B, we are well-versed in tech teamwork. Our software development company puts cooperation at the top of our priority list. We know that the better we work together, the better the results we can produce for our clients. 

 

If your company needs an efficient development team for your next project, we could be the one for you.

 

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