Free RACI matrix template for Excel and Google Sheets
A RACI matrix lists the deliverables or decisions in a project down the side and the roles across the top. Each cell says how a role is involved. This template checks the two rules people most often break: exactly one Accountable and at least one Responsible per row.
The .xlsx file opens in Microsoft Excel, LibreOffice Calc and Google Sheets (File, then Import). No macros.
What is in the template
- Rows for 30 deliverables or decisions and columns for six roles you can rename.
- R, A, A/R, C and I drop-downs in every role cell.
- A check column that says OK, Needs one A or Needs an R for each row.
- Six example rows from project charter to launch announcement.
How to use it
- Rename the role columns to match your project. Use roles, not people's names.
- List deliverables and decisions, not every task. Twenty rows is plenty for most projects.
- Give each row exactly one A: the person who signs off and answers for the result.
- Mark R for whoever does the work, C for people whose input is needed before, and I for people told after.
- Fix every row the check column flags, then share the matrix at kickoff.
Common RACI mistakes
Too many Cs slow everything down: each Consulted person is someone the work must wait for. If a role is Consulted on most rows, ask whether Informed would do.
Two As on one row means nobody is really accountable. If two people must approve, name one as Accountable and the other as Consulted.
A role with no R anywhere is either not needed on the project or doing invisible work. Check both before kickoff.
Common questions
What do R, A, C and I stand for?
Responsible: does the work. Accountable: owns the result and signs off. Consulted: gives input before the work is done. Informed: is told about the result.
Can one person be both R and A?
Yes, on small teams that is common. Choose A/R in that role's cell. The check column counts it as both the one Accountable and a Responsible.
Should a RACI list tasks or deliverables?
Deliverables and decisions. A row for every task makes the matrix too long to read, and task ownership belongs in your task tracker.