Eliminate to optimize
So much of data management is habit (both good and bad) which is why I love James Clear's Atomic Habits. Implementing better data management habits can help you improve the quality of your data.
Here's another quote from Clear that applies to data management:
"More effort is wasted doing things that don’t matter than is wasted doing things inefficiently. Elimination is the highest form of optimization." - James Clear
Where does this apply? Here are just a few examples:
- Do you actually use all the demographic data you collect during the join process?
- Do you produce a printed directory that no one uses?
- Do you mail printed membership cards or attendance certificates that no one uses?
- Do you produce periodic reports or memos that no one actually reads?
My experience with clients is that most organizations have one or more processes in place that simply aren't needed anymore. They can be eliminated. And as Clear states, elimination is the highest form of optimization.
![]()
Wes's Wednesday Wisdom Archives
More on Meetings
More on Meetings I’ve written before about the importance of making sure your meetings are […]
Action produces momentum
Action produces momentum Another great quote from James Clear: “Motivation often comes after starting, not […]
My #1 Best Practice…
My #1 Best Practice… A client recently asked me: “If you had to pick a single […]
Encourage engagement with prizes!
Encourage engagement with prizes! One of the biggest challenges any organization faces when implementing a new […]
Inertia
Inertia One definition of inertia is “to remain unchanged.” My sense is that many association processes, projects, or […]
When’s the “least bad” time?
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
A poor launch can set the stage for YEARS It is not uncommon for me […]
Have the courage of your convictions
Have the courage of your convictions Having the courage of your convictions means you’re willing […]
Even your online directory is out of date!
Even your online directory is out of date! Back in the day of printed directories, […]
Start small
Start small When I work with my clients on projects that involve measuring member engagement, […]
