Some history IS important!
When I'm advising clients on data conversion (moving data from one system to another) my advice is always the same: "Convert as little data as possible."
There is one big exception to this rule: volunteer and award history. Almost all volunteer history (and certainly all award history) should be kept, essentially forever.
I've written extensively about how important volunteers are to associations and non-profits. So it's critically important to be sure we keep a history of volunteer activity because we should be treating all of our volunteers (current and past) like the gold they are. And I shouldn't have to explain why it's important to keep a record of awardees!
So when you're converting to a new system (or even cleaning up your existing system) make sure you're keeping that volunteer and award history!
Wes's Wednesday Wisdom Archives
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 […]
The power of users groups!
The power of users groups! Last week I had the honor and pleasure of speaking […]
Associations are complex businesses!
Associations are complex businesses! One of the reasons managing data at an association can be so […]
Snapshots are required
Snapshots are required Recently a couple of different clients have asked me why it’s necessary […]
“It’s in the database…”
“It’s in the database…” I often joke with my clients that AMS nirvana looks like […]