How to Create a RACI Matrix in Microsoft Azure DevOps (ADO)

Introduction

Microsoft Azure DevOps (ADO) is a powerful tool for managing Agile projects, CI/CD pipelines, and development workflows. However, it does not provide an out-of-the-box RACI matrix or Gantt chart functionality. This makes it challenging for teams to define clear roles and responsibilities in complex projects.

This blog will walk you through how to manually create a custom RACI matrix in Azure DevOps, but if you’re looking for an easier way, we’ll also introduce ezRACI, a purpose-built tool for RACI and Gantt charts. With ezRACI, you can:

• Integrate with Azure DevOps in just a few clicks.

• Synchronize all ADO work items automatically into a pre-built RACI matrix.

• Invite unlimited collaborators to define and manage accountability.

• Mirror the RACI matrix into a Gantt chart for better visualization.

Let’s explore both options—the manual method in ADO and the faster alternative with ezRACI.

How to Manually Create a RACI Matrix in Azure DevOps

Step 1: Open Azure DevOps and Navigate to Project Settings

1. Log into Azure DevOps at https://dev.azure.com.

2. Select your project workspace.

3. Click Project Settings in the lower-left corner.

Step 2: Create Custom Fields for RACI Roles

1. Navigate to Project Configuration > Process.

2. Choose the Work Item Type (e.g., User Story, Task, Bug).

3. Click New Field and create the following custom fields:

   • RACI - Responsible (Person assigned to execute the task)

   • RACI - Accountable (Person ultimately responsible for the task)

   • RACI - Consulted (Person providing input before decisions are made)

   • RACI - Informed (Person needing updates on progress)

4. Save and apply the fields to all relevant work items.

Step 3: Assign RACI Roles to Work Items

1. Go to Boards > Work Items.

2. Open a task or user story and edit the custom fields.

3. Assign team members under Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, and Informed fields.

4. Save the changes.

Step 4: Generate a Custom RACI Report in ADO

1. Navigate to Analytics Views.

2. Create a new Work Item Query to filter tasks with RACI roles.

3. Export the report to CSV or Excel for offline RACI tracking.

Challenges of Creating a RACI Matrix Manually in ADO

• Manual data entry for every task is time-consuming.

• No built-in visualization to view the RACI matrix at a project level.

• Lack of integration with Gantt charts to track dependencies.

The Easier Way: Use ezRACI to Automate Your RACI Matrix in Azure DevOps

Instead of manually setting up RACI assignments in ADO, ezRACI automates everything:

• Easy-to-setup integration with Azure DevOps at www.ezraci.com

• Syncs all ADO work items into a pre-built RACI matrix

• Invite unlimited collaborators to manage accountability

• Automatically generate Gantt charts from your RACI matrix

How to Set Up ezRACI with Azure DevOps in Minutes

1. Sign up for free at www.ezraci.com.

2. Click Integrate, then Azure DevOps and authorize access.

3. Select your ADO project and sync your work items.

4. Assign RACI roles in an easy-to-use drag-and-drop interface.

5. Automatically mirror your RACI matrix into a Gantt chart for better tracking.

Why Choose ezRACI Over Manual ADO Setup?

• No manual setup—instantly syncs with ADO

• Real-time visibility with built-in RACI reports

• Smoother collaboration—invite unlimited users

• Gantt chart integration for easy timeline tracking

Azure DevOps does not provide built-in RACI matrix or Gantt chart functionality, which means managing accountability manually can be time-consuming and inefficient. Instead of struggling with workarounds, take the easy path with ezRACI—a dedicated RACI and Gantt chart tool that integrates seamlessly with ADO.

Save time and automate your RACI matrix. Try ezRACI today at www.ezraci.com!