Why do we need a responsibility matrix?

2024 Author: Henry Conors | [email protected]. Last modified: 2024-02-12 02:46

Project activity allows you to most effectively operate the ratio of available resources, time and quality of the final product. With the help of competent planning, it is possible to timely implement corrective management actions at any time at each stage of the project life cycle. The use of an appropriate methodology makes it possible to calculate in advance the total cost of producing technical documentation, the average duration of implementation, and determine the responsible persons at each stage (OBS structure, RAM matrix). It is important to correctly plan the complete list of works (build the WBS basis of the project) and the sequence of their implementation (depict the PDM network). A chain of tasks should be identified in advance, the progress of which should be most carefully controlled. Since they do not have a reserve, the total duration of their implementation determines the total duration of the project (according to the critical path method).

Significant facilitation of management is facilitated by such a tool as the responsibility matrix (or linearschedule). It is built on the basis of a pre-developed WBS structure (a hierarchical basis for the work performed) and an OBS structure (organizational structure by performers). It is used to exercise leadership through the introduction of the principle of responsibility (Principle Responsibility).

It is necessary to personalize each of the tasks contained in the program according to the appropriate specialists. A responsibility matrix is created for the project - this is a display of planned connections (most often graphic). It is depicted in the form of a table based on the basis of the ratios of WBS and OBS structures. Then the first is represented as the vertical rows of the matrix, and the second as the horizontal columns. For each WBS element, an employee is identified who will coordinate its implementation. The corresponding sign is put down at the intersection of the two components.

The Responsibility Matrix, if it is done correctly, should give an idea of who manages the implementation of each link in the lower-level hierarchical structure. Only one person can be responsible for the execution of any of the WBS elements. But the progress of several components of the work can be controlled by a single person.

RAM - this is how the project responsibility matrix (Responsibility assignment matrix) is briefly denoted - the distribution of reporting and responsibilities in the form of a table. For a well-organized program, the rule must be observed that the execution of anygoals were controlled by a certain governing body. For example, the project manager - the mission (all tasks), the responsible executors - individual elements, etc. In fact, in this way a goal tree is built. It must correspond to the order of the division of the structure, which is entrusted with the implementation of the idea. The functional responsibilities of all persons involved in the planned work are determined by the responsibility matrix. It serves to specify a set of tasks, and people are personally accountable for their implementation.

Dedicated software makes project preparation easier. With its help, you can make WBS and OBS structures, lists of works with organization by phases and control much faster. The same RAM responsibility matrix is created, but in a more detailed form. Thus, without undue effort, it is possible to obtain the necessary tables in the appropriate software packages. And also, if necessary, quickly change any data on the project, while simultaneously receiving their updated graphical display.