Action Plans and the RACI Approach

Action Plans

An action plan is a specific list of tasks to achieve a particular goal. Breaking down the goal into smaller, manageable steps, makes it easier to stay motivated and track progress.

Components of an action plan include:

• A well defined description of the goal

• Steps that need to be carried out to reach the goal

• People who will be in charge of carrying out each task (RACI Matrix)

• When will these tasks be completed (deadlines and milestones)

• Resources needed to complete the tasks

• Measures to evaluate progress

An action plan is not something set in stone. As your organization grows, and surrounding circumstances change, you will have to revisit and make adjustments to meet the latest needs.

The RACI Approach

A responsibility assignment matrix, also known as RACI matrix, describes the participation by various roles in completing tasks /deliverables for a project / business process.

RACI is an acronym derived from the four key responsibilities most typically used : responsible,  accountable, consulted, informed. It is used for clarifying and defining roles and responsibilities in cross-functional or departmental projects and processes.

RACI Roles

A role is a descriptor of an associated set of tasks; may be performed by many people; and one person can perform many roles.

R = Responsible

Those who do the work to complete the task. There is at least one role with a participation type of responsible, although others can be delegated to assist in the work required.

A = Accountable

The one ultimately answerable for the correct and thorough completion of the deliverable or task, the one who ensures the prerequisites of the task are met and who delegates the work to those responsible. In other words, an accountable must sign off (approve) work that responsible provides. There must be only one accountable specified for each task or deliverable.

C = Consulted

Those whose opinions are sought, typically subject-matter experts; and with whom there is two-way communication.

I = Informed

Those who are kept up-to-date on progress, often only on completion of the task or deliverable; and with whom there is just one-way communication.

Below is an example of a RACI Matrix:

And the notifications that the respective roles would receive when an action plan is set up:

Lets go through how to set up an Action Plan.