"It's more than I have, but less than I want."
"It's more than I have, but less than I want."
These are words uttered by a client of mine recently when looking at new data management software for their organization.
There is some deep truth in both parts of that sentence:
- "It's more than I have..." Obviously if you're going to make a system change, you should be getting "more" than what you have now. This should include things like simplifying/automating processes and allowing you to capture and analyze more data about your members and customers.
- "...but less than I want." When I work with my clients we look at things from a "blue sky" perspective first. "If you could have anything you want, what would it be?" The purpose of the exercise is to make sure we're thinking as big as possible, because I've found clients can often be self-limiting in their perspective, due to what they're experiencing with the status quo. But by definition, "blue sky" means we'll be asking for things we probably won't get. And that's ok, as long as everyone understands that going in.
In almost all cases, when my clients changes systems they get more than they have but less than they want. And it's important to keep in mind that as long as the "more than I have" is a fairly dramatic improvement over the status quo, then it's ok that you didn't get all that you wanted. Life is about success, not perfection.
Wes's Wednesday Wisdom Archives
MVP: Minimum Viable Product
MVP: Minimum Viable Product In product development there is a concept known as MVP, or …
You always need a reason for collecting data
You always need a reason for collecting data When you ask for data from someone …
If you’re unhappy, speak up!
If you’re unhappy, speak up! My clients will often ask me something along the lines …
Does it advance the mission?
Does it advance the mission? Because associations are mission-driven, everything you do should be seen …
How should you start a new data project?
How should you start a new data project? When you’ve got a new data project …
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 …
A change of systems requires a change of mindset Read More »