Whose Job is it Anyway?

“That’s not my job. I did my part already; it’s up to them now.”

How often have you heard statements like these on a project or even said them yourself?

When it comes to project success, roles and responsibilities are the backbone of coordination, efficiency, and accountability. Clear ownership is the difference between a project that moves forward seamlessly and one that pauses in confusion.

Following some of the suggestions below at the onset of a project ensures clarity and alignment on roles and responsibilities:

  • Documented Responsibilities Matter: Tools like a RASCI matrix (Responsible, Accountable, Supportive, Consulted, Informed) and process documentation for critical activities are invaluable. These tools reduce ambiguity, minimize variation, and establish clear ownership from the start.
  • Integrate Responsibilities into Daily Workflows: Documents should not be designed to sit on the shelf. They should be active, interactive tools that teams use daily. Effective project management means creating resources that are accessible, efficient, and seamlessly integrated into how teams operate.
  • Training Drives Comprehension: Determining roles is not enough; team members need to understand them. Training fosters alignment and ensures everyone comprehends their tasks, dependencies, and how their work fits into the bigger picture.
  • Foster Proactive Attitudes: A successful project culture isn’t built on “I’m done” mentalities. PMOs and project managers should reinforce a “go-do” attitude, encouraging team members to look beyond their immediate responsibilities and help drive the project toward success.
  • Coordination Across Functions: Stakeholder coordination is critical, especially when bridging gaps between teams with different skill sets and focus areas. The PMO (Project Management Office) plays a pivotal role in keeping functional groups aligned, ensuring handoffs are seamless, and avoiding silos.

Ultimately, the PM’s (Project Manager) role isn’t just about delivering tasks; it’s about creating an environment where everyone knows their role, feels empowered to execute it, and understands how their contributions impact the project’s overall success. At Mesa’s PMO, we specialize in helping organizations achieve better coordination, clarity, and accountability. Want to talk more about how we can support your next project? Let’s connect.