DACI model template

There is such a thing as too many cooks in the kitchen. This scenario is made worse when the head chef isn’t apparent. Meet Mural’s DACI model template, your go-to playbook for project management. It ensures everyone’s on the same page in terms of accountability, transparency, and nailing decisions. The DACI model assigns everyone a specific role, so collaboration is clear and efficient. 

What is the DACI Decision-Making Framework?

A DACI decision-making framework is a structured project management approach designed to clearly set out roles and responsibilities in decision-making processes within teams. Many knowledge workers believe that less than 20% of their meetings are productive; decision templates help make meetings worth it.

DACI stands for: Driver, Approver, Contributor, and Informed. Each position is a crucial puzzle piece, making sure projects succeed. While it rubs shoulders with frameworks like RACI and RAM, DACI's got an edge with its all-inclusive approach, spotlighting the “Driver” front and center.

What are the roles and responsibilities in the DACI Decision Model?

Each role in the DACI model is important in ensuring decisions are made effectively and efficiently. 

Driver: Oh captain, my captain! The driver is the person who leads the project and coordinates efforts, ensuring the decision-making process moves forward smoothly.

Approver: The key decision-maker who has the final say on outcomes. This role is often filled by a senior leader or stakeholder who reviews the inputs from the Driver and Contributors.

Contributor(s): Contributors are folks that make the magic happen. These team members provide valuable insights, expertise, and support during discussions. They help shape the direction of the project by contributing ideas and information.

Informed: Those who need to stay updated on the project’s progress and decisions but do not participate directly in the decision-making process. Keeping them informed ensures transparency and alignment. They’re likely the approver’s boss.

What are the benefits of using the DACI model

• Clarity: Clearly define roles so your team can reduce confusion and increase clear collaboration.
• Accountability: Ensure everyone knows their responsibilities so they can work effectively together and separately.
• Efficiency: Streamline discussions to get to decisions quickly.‍
• Engagement: Encourage your team to participate while keeping relevant stakeholders in the loop.

How to use Mural’s DACI template

Step 1. Identify the decision

Whether it’s about an upcoming campaign or a wide-sweeping company decision, determine what needs to be decided, making sure to think of all the internal and external factors before you assemble your working team.

Step 2. Assign roles

Figure out who will be the Driver, Approver, Contributors, and Informed on your working team.

Step 3. Document responsibilities

Before you meet, outline exactly what everyone will be doing during this decision-making process.

Step 4. Talk with your team

Share the framework with the team and schedule meetings to go over the framework and any upcoming milestones that you’ve laid out.

Tips for using Mural’s DACI model template

• Think through all scenarios: Make sure that you’ve considered everything that goes into the decision-making process. Nothing’s worse than almost getting to the finish line and then having to double back to talk through something that wasn’t considered.
• Visualize it: Create a colorful DACI chart that everyone can see. Use fun graphics or icons to represent each role. A visual reminder keeps everyone engaged and focused on their responsibilities.
• Don’t forget to celebrate: Once a decision is made, celebrate it! Acknowledge everyone’s contributions and the teamwork that got you there. A little celebration goes a long way in boosting morale!