RASCI

The key element of process management is the ability to manage the process with an eye to the results obtained. A process must therefore provide precise insight into who is responsible for which result and who carries out which activities to achieve the result and make use of it. The RASCI module is widely accepted as a basis for describing these tasks, authorities and responsibilities.

The RASCI module uses a method in which business processes are described in a simple and practical fashion. The goal of providing these process descriptions is to make it clear to the employees and management exactly what the organisation expects of them.

In order to describe the process, it is visualised in a flow diagram. Within this diagram, RASCI links the tasks, responsibilities and authorities of employees to the activities that need to be carried out. This also clarifies the mutual relationships between employees in relation to these activities. The end result is a handy and transparent description of the process concerned.

The RASCI method originated in America, and its name is an acronym for the roles present within an organisation. The method works on the assumption that there are a maximum of five different roles in connection with an activity:

Within the RASCI method, the relationships between the various employees and the role(s) that they play are clearly defined. As a result, the method identifies any overlapping activities, superfluous activities, confusion and omission. This, in turn, improves the effectiveness of the organisation.