What is a RACI chart and how is it used?

• A. A risk scoring matrix for prioritization.
• B. A communications flow diagram.
• C. A responsibility assignment matrix that specifies who is Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, and Informed for tasks; used to clarify roles.
• D. A project schedule chart.

Answer: (C)

A RACI chart maps tasks or deliverables to roles and creates a responsibility assignment matrix that specifies who is Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, and Informed for each item. This clarifies ownership and expectations, helping to prevent gaps or overlaps in work. In practice, the person who does the work is Responsible; the person who signs off on the work is Accountable; those whose input is needed are Consulted; and those who must be kept in the loop are Informed. Using a RACI chart improves communication and decision-making, especially when many stakeholders are involved. It’s different from a risk scoring matrix, which prioritizes risks, a communications flow diagram, which shows channels, or a project schedule chart, which maps timing.