Little by little, a little becomes a lot
"Little by little, a little becomes a lot."
I don't know where I first read it (a google search says it's a Tanzanian proverb; I'm dubious), but I love the phrase, especially as it relates to data management.
One of the many challenges of data management is that it can be so overwhelming. Even the smallest organizations have tons of data. Where to begin when it comes to cleaning up and maintaining?
They key is to just start somewhere, and to build in small habits for data cleaning. These small steps, little by little, will lead you to much cleaner data over time.
And with cleaner data you'll move into the cycle of virtue (click here to read all about that).
And cleaner data begets cleaner data!
Where to begin? Consider these baby steps or weeding the garden. Soon a little becomes a lot.
![]()
Wes's Wednesday Wisdom Archives
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 […]
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 […]
