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Lean Six Sigma Green Belt: How Does Project Charter’s Roles and Responsibilities Section Define Accountability?

Why is a RACI Chart Essential for Clarifying Roles in a Six Sigma Project Charter?

Understand the critical ‘Roles and Responsibilities’ section of a Six Sigma project charter. Learn how this element defines accountability for project success by clarifying the duties of the Project Sponsor, Project Manager, and team, often using a RACI matrix.

Question

Which element of the project charter defines who is accountable for project success?

A. SIPOC
B. Timeline milestones
C. Roles and responsibilities section
D. Process map

Answer

C. Roles and responsibilities section

Explanation

This clarifies accountability and ownership.

Defining Accountability for Success

The Roles and Responsibilities section of a project charter is the foundational element that formally defines authority and assigns ownership for the project’s outcome. Its primary purpose is to eliminate ambiguity by clearly stating who is responsible for specific tasks and, most importantly, who is ultimately accountable for the project’s success. This clarity ensures that every person involved understands their specific duties and the reporting structure.​

Key Roles and Their Accountabilities

This section provides a formal structure for the project team. While specific titles may vary, it typically defines the accountabilities of key positions:​

  • Project Sponsor (or Champion): This is usually a senior leader who is ultimately accountable for the project’s success. The sponsor secures funding and resources, provides high-level direction, and acts as the final decision-maker.​
  • Project Manager: This individual is responsible for the day-to-day execution of the project, ensuring it meets its objectives on time and within budget.​
  • Team Members: These are the subject matter experts who are responsible for completing the project tasks assigned to them.​

The RACI Matrix

To provide granular clarity, project charters often include a RACI matrix within the Roles and Responsibilities section. RACI is an acronym that stands for:​

  • Responsible: The person or people who do the work.
  • Accountable: The one person who is the final approving authority and has ultimate ownership of the task or deliverable. This directly answers the question of who is accountable.
  • Consulted: The experts who provide input and whose opinions are sought.
  • Informed: The people who are kept up-to-date on progress.

By documenting these roles, the charter ensures that there is no confusion about who has the authority to make decisions and who bears the ultimate responsibility for achieving the project’s goals.

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