Process before technology
In a conversation with a client recently, I was reminded (yet again) of how important people and process are when it comes to managing data. As we discussed their technology options, the client said, "You know, even if this technology is free, it won't do us any good if we haven't established good processes and assigned accountability."
He's 100% correct.
I talk about people, process, and technology all the time, because all three of them are equally important for effectively managing data. You've got to have the right people ("accountability") doing the right things (process) in order for the technology to be most effective.
As a wise consultant once told me, "If your processes are crap and you add technology to those crappy processes, all you'll do is produce crap much faster."
So before you make any decisions about new technology, make sure you've got the right processes in place.
Wes's Wednesday Wisdom Archives
Why “weeding the garden” is so important
Why “weeding the garden” is so important One of the most important activities for maintaining […]
It’s time to stop excusing association professionals
It’s time to stop excusing association professionals I worked in associations for nearly 10 years, […]
More demos is not better
More demos is not better When I work with clients on selecting a new system, […]
The database owner should be “passionate”
The database owner should be “passionate” I’m frequently asked by my clients: “Who should we […]
Discipline is required
Discipline is required Last week I discussed the importance of taking action. To manage data […]
Action is required
Action is required Over my many years of consulting, one thing I’ve noticed about many associations […]
Some data analytics tips from the DAN “Science Fair”
Some data analytics tips from the DAN “Science Fair” Last week I had the opportunity […]
Are all your processes frictionless?
Are all your processes frictionless? I’m not a huge fan of buzzwords, but I love […]
Trends don’t need perfect data
Trends don’t need perfect data When it comes to analyzing data trends (changes in data […]
Start with “Why” before you move to “How”
Start with “Why” before you move to “How” Something I’ve noticed over my years in […]