ISMS RACI Matrix Template

The ISMS RACI Matrix is a tool to help ensure that an organisation's information security management system (ISMS) is effective. The matrix is used to map out who is responsible for what within the ISMS and identify gaps in responsibility. The matrix can be used by organisations of all sizes and is especially helpful for larger organisations with complex ISMS. It can be used to help prevent problems and conflict and ensure everyone is on the same page regarding expectations.

How Does the ISMS RACI Matrix Work?

The ISMS RACI Matrix works by mapping out the roles and responsibilities of individuals and groups within an organisation's ISMS. The matrix can be used to identify who is responsible for each task within the ISMS and any gaps in responsibility. A matrix consists of four quadrants:

• Responsible: The individual or group who is responsible for completing the task. This person or group has the authority to make decisions about the task and is accountable for its successful completion.
• Accountable: The individual or group who is responsible for the task. This person or group has the authority to delegate the task to others but is not responsible for its successful completion.
• Consulted: The individual or group who is consulted about the task. This person or group provides input on the task but does not have the authority to decide.
• Informed: The individual or group who is informed about the task. This person or group is kept up to date on the task's status but does not have a role in its execution.

Benefits of RACI Matrix

• Streamline communication- Using a RACI matrix, you may streamline communication and involve the right individuals at the right time. The decision-making process can be sped up and simplified due to this.
• More accessible to delegate- There is also a designated person in charge of the project, to whom others can seek guidance, ask questions, or provide criticism. By using the matrix, delegates can ensure that tasks are delegated appropriately and that everyone involved knows their roles and responsibilities.
• Expectation is clear- Because everyone involved in the project knows who is responsible for finishing each task, there is no confusion. It also aids important stakeholders in comprehending their responsibilities.
• Streamlines stakeholder input- You may reduce feedback delays by distinguishing between essential stakeholders who need to be approached for information and those who merely need to be informed. You may ensure that only those who should be kept informed are kept up to date.

How to create a RACI matrix

• List the tasks- Make a list of all the tasks and deliverables that must be completed for the project to be completed successfully. All of these should go in the chart's far left column. While the graph can have as many activities as you want, try to avoid going too granular to keep the chart as quickly read as possible.
• Conduct meetings and assign RACI codes- Running a successful business requires taking care of many moving parts. One way to ensure everyone is on the same page and working towards the same goal is to have regular meetings with stakeholders. In these meetings, it's crucial to assign RACI codes to each member of the team. By giving these codes, you can ensure that everyone knows their role in the meeting and the larger goal.
• Share the matrix- Your matrix should be discussed and shared with the rest of your team. To resolve potential conflicts or misunderstandings among duties or assigned roles, discuss everyone's roles and responsibilities, and solicit input.

How to implement ISMS RACI matrix in your business

• Layout the roles and responsibilities of everyone in your organisation. This can be done by creating a position description for each part or using an existing organisational chart. Once you clearly understand everyone's role within the organisation, you can begin to assign tasks and activities to them. When assigning tasks and activities, it is crucial to consider who is best suited for each task. For example, suppose you are implementing a new security system. In that case, you will likely want to assign the responsibility of designing and implementing the system to someone with experience in information security. Likewise, if you are rolling out a new training program, you will want to assign the responsibility of developing and delivering the training to someone with experience in training development.

• Once you have assigned tasks and activities to individuals, you can begin filling out the ISMS RACI Matrix. The matrix comprises four quadrants: responsible, accountable, consulted and informed. Each quadrant corresponds to a different individual within your organisation.

• The responsible quadrant is typically occupied by the individual responsible for carrying out the task or activity. In most cases, this will be the person who has been assigned the task or activity. However, there may be times when multiple individuals share responsibility for a single task or activity. In these cases, all individuals involved should be listed as the responsible.

• The accountable quadrant is typically occupied by the individual who is ultimately responsible for successfully completing the task or activity. This individual may be the project manager, department head, or CEO. In some cases, there may be multiple individuals in this quadrant.

• The consulted quadrant is typically occupied by individuals who should be consulted before carrying out the task or activity. These individuals usually have expertise or knowledge that could benefit the individual carrying out the task. However, consultation is not required, and these individuals may choose to opt-out if they wish.

• The informed quadrant is typically occupied by individuals who need to be kept up-to-date on the progress of the task or activity. These individuals are typically not directly involved in the task or activity but must be aware of its progress.