Setting clear roles, expectations, and accountability

Learning objectives:

• Define and communicate team roles, responsibilities, and expectations with precision.
• Establish accountability mechanisms that align individual contributions with team objectives.

1.1. Defining roles and expectations

• Framework: The RACI model:

  • Responsible: Who performs the task.
  • Accountable: Who ensures the task is completed.
  • Consulted: Who provides input.
  • Informed: Who needs updates.

• Steps to implement:

  • Map team responsibilities to project objectives.
  • Clarify expectations in written agreements or charters.
  • Align roles with individual strengths and career goals.

1.2. Setting SMART expectations

• Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-Bound:
  • Example: “Complete the Q4 marketing strategy by October 15th with input from sales and operations teams”.

1.3. Real-world example

• A product development team reduces delays by implementing a RACI matrix, ensuring cross-functional clarity during a critical project launch.

1.4. Interactive exercise

• Activity:
  • Participants apply the RACI framework to an ongoing team project.
  • Define roles, expectations, and accountability for key tasks.
  • Outcome: Present frameworks to peers and refine based on feedback.