Tasks without owners slip. Responsibility is the obligation to perform assigned duties and to be answerable for the results of that performance.

It attaches to roles and to specific commitments. Clear responsibility prevents diffusion of ownership when work crosses boundaries. Responsibility differs from authority: one may be responsible for outcomes without full control of every input, which is why escalation paths matter.

Cultures that celebrate responsibility make commitments visible and follow through. Cultures that punish every shortfall without distinguishing bad luck from bad process eventually train people to avoid ownership. Written role descriptions help, but day-to-day reinforcement matters more.

• Obligation to perform and answer for duties
• Attached to roles and specific commitments
• Distinct from but linked to authority
• Strengthened by clarity and fair follow-through