Don’t just clean data, clean reports and queries

Don't just clean data, clean reports and queries

One of the reasons I exhort my clients to keep their data as clean as possible is because, over time, "dirty" data causes users to doubt the accuracy of all the data in the system. And when users doubt the data, they'll start using their own systems to manage data, and your data will get worse over time (I call this the cycle of doom.)

Another contributor to this cycle of doom is outdated queries and reports.

In my experience, almost all of my clients are in the habit of creating new queries and reports, but not cleaning out the old ones. Over time that creates a lot of queries and reports that staff has to wade through. (A client recently told me they have over 400 reports and queries in their current system!) And if the reports are out of date or inaccurate, they can also lead to staff doubting the data.

So my recommendation is simple: On a periodic basis (at least twice a year), review all of your saved queries and reports, and get rid of the ones that are no longer used or no longer accurate.

Bonus tip: if you can't decide if a report or query is being used or not, hide it (i.e., don't delete it but make it invisible to users). If no one asks "Where is that report?" you'll know it's no longer in use!

Wes's Wednesday Wisdom Archives

For data governance, ask “Why?”

July 7, 2021

For data governance, ask “Why?” Recently I’ve had the opportunity to work on several data […]

More on Meetings

June 30, 2021

More on Meetings I’ve written before about the importance of making sure your meetings are […]

Action produces momentum

June 23, 2021

Action produces momentum Another great quote from James Clear: “Motivation often comes after starting, not […]

My #1 Best Practice…

June 16, 2021

My #1 Best Practice… A client recently asked me: “If you had to pick a single […]

Encourage engagement with prizes!

June 9, 2021

Encourage engagement with prizes! One of the biggest challenges any organization faces when implementing a new […]

Inertia

June 2, 2021

Inertia One definition of inertia is “to remain unchanged.” My sense is that many association processes, projects, or […]

When’s the “least bad” time?

May 26, 2021

When’s the “least bad” time? When working with clients on a new project, especially a […]

A poor launch can set the stage for YEARS

May 19, 2021

A poor launch can set the stage for YEARS It is not uncommon for me […]

Have the courage of your convictions

May 12, 2021

Have the courage of your convictions Having the courage of your convictions means you’re willing […]

Even your online directory is out of date!

May 5, 2021

Even your online directory is out of date! Back in the day of printed directories, […]

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top