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RAM (RACI) chart exercise

Paul Naybour Paul Naybour

Published: 6th February 2014

 

 

Hi Paul,

 

Can you please check over the below? Thanks.

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Describe the use of a RAM (RACI) chart and the use of its benefits, making 5 points in your answer.

The RAM chart is a matrix for mapping roles from the OBS to activities (work packages) from the WBS. The chart is used to show the levels of involvement and responsibility for completing a work package. The RAM’s use is to clarify to the team/stakeholders who is involved in which of the work packages and the person who is ultimately accountable for its completion.

Communication tool – The RAM is valuable to communicating to both the project team and stakeholders who is involved in the completing of an activity. It acts as a quick reference guide to inform all involved in the project the responsibilities in completing an activity and removes any ambiguities. For example, the RAM can be used in status reports to communicate any role changes.

Demarcation of authority – Each person working on a work package knows exactly what is expected of them and the boundaries of the authority. This helps to resolve decisions by identifying the decision maker quickly. For example, if a Consulted (C) manager needs to decision then a check of the RAM will advise who is Accountable (A) for making it.

Clear accountability – There is only one role accountable per each of the work packages and this is shown in the RAM chart. This is a benefit as it informs the project team who is the decision maker (Accountable) for the work package is completed. For example, if the work package has been completed by the engineers then the RAM will show which Director signs-off the work as completed.

Reduces duplication – The RAM is beneficial to the project team in identifying which work packages have too many resources allocated to them. This saves the project time and money in planning execution. For example, only one IT engineer needs informing of a products completion of a work package but the RAM highlights two engineers listed as being Informed (I).

Clarifies roles – All of the project team benefit from the RAM’s content as they can see who else is involved in which work packages production with them. This also helps when new team members join the project team so they know who to consult. For example, if advice is needed during producing a product, then the team can check the RAM to see who needs to be consulted in the decision.