Published 1 Aug 2025
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3 min read
What is a RACI Matrix Template?
A Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, and Informed (RACI) matrix template, also known as a roles and responsibilities matrix or responsibility assignment matrix, is a project management tool that helps align your team on who is responsible for what during a project, especially when handling complex tasks in industries like manufacturing.
RACI stands for:
Responsible: Those assigned to complete the work or task.
Accountable: The one person who owns the task’s outcome and gives final approval.
Consulted: Experts or stakeholders who provide essential input through active two-way communication.
Informed: Individuals who are kept up to date on progress and outcomes.
Importance
Effective project management systems are essential when handling complicated tasks. Without clear roles, team members might not know what they’re supposed to do, who to ask for help, or worse, start blaming each other for tasks they weren’t responsible for. An RACI matrix clarifies roles and responsibilities for the specific task or project, so everyone in the operations knows what they need to do. It’s an integral part of the ISO 9001 quality management standard, giving teams structure to accomplish projects efficiently.
Let’s say, for example, that a machine in a manufacturing facility breaks down. If there’s no RACI matrix in place, the maintenance team might assume the line supervisor will report it, while the supervisor thinks the responsibility lies with quality control. As a result, the issue may take longer to address due to the lack of direction, leading to unnecessary downtime and production delays.
What to Include in a RACI Matrix Template
Most RACI matrix templates use a chart format with an x- and y-axis. The x-axis lists the people or roles, while the y-axis lists the tasks such as equipment inspection, quality checks, or production line setup. The letters R, A, C, and I are placed in the grid to show each person’s role for each task, helping ensure everyone is aligned.
But simpler RACI templates or checklists just look for the following:
The role or position of a person
The quality responsibilities of a person
Who they are accountable to or for
Authority level from lowest to highest
How to Use a Roles and Responsibilities Matrix Template
Integrating a roles and responsibilities matrix template into your workflow is essential for success—especially when it comes to clearly defining Governance, Risk Management, and Compliance (GRC) roles. A digital version can help streamline operations by storing data in the cloud, sending automatic daily reminders, identifying team members who may be overworked, and allowing feedback from other users.
Here’s how to use a digital RACI matrix template, using a manufacturing company as an example:
Choose the manufacturing process or workflow you want to optimize—for example, production line setup, equipment maintenance, or quality inspection—along with the team members involved.
Download the digital RACI matrix template and integrate it into your system, ideally one that supports your plant’s operations.
Assign roles for each task in the matrix for each member (Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, and Informed).
Record all assignments and review them with your manufacturing and operations team to ensure everyone agrees and understands their roles.
Do a trial run using the RACI matrix and watch for any confusion, delays, or overlapping responsibilities. Make necessary adjustments and updates as team roles or production priorities change.
Sample RACI Matrix Report
Below is an example of a completed RACI matrix report, done using a template that’s fully editable for your own operations:
