Don't be a hoarder!
The simple truth is that it's almost "free" to collect data. Or at least that's how it seems.
Set up a field in the database, send out an email and ask for the data, and voila, you're collecting new data.
The problem is that, in many (most?) cases, the data that we start out to collect doesn't get maintained over time, even with the best of intentions. And so, over time, we become data hoarders, keeping data that we really don't need.
I would guess that almost every one of my clients (now several hundred over 25 years) has one or more data points in their AMS that are no longer being used, or if they are being used, haven't been updated in many years. I'd bet the same is true for your organization.
When is the last time you looked at your database and cleaned out what you're no longer using? Is it time to do it again?
Wes's Wednesday Wisdom Archives
A Data Integrity Report…for Reports!
I’ve written elsewhere about the value of data integrity reports. But one of the most […]
Simple rules for complex systems
Simple rules for complex systems I first heard the phrase “simple rules for complex systems” […]
Accentuate the positive
Accentuate the positive I’ve written before about the importance of database public relationsand celebrating success. I’ll add […]
Annual dues vs. anniversary dues
Annual dues vs. anniversary dues I served as director of membership for several years at […]
A change of systems requires a change of mindset
Every AMS vendor will tell you that the toughest part of implementing a new system […]
It doesn’t have to be optimal to be beneficial
It doesn’t have to be optimal to be beneficial I’m a big fan of the […]
Look for small wins
Look for small wins One of the toughest things about system implementation is simply how […]
Are you closing the loop?
Are you closing the loop? If your association does a call for presentations for any […]
Declare victory and move on
Declare victory and move on The law of diminishing returns is the point at which the […]
Clean as you go
Clean As You Go A good cook or baker knows that, when working in the […]