Ease & Simplicity

"Nothing is ever simple in <insert donor management system name here>" is a common refrain I hear when working with nonprofit organizations in their database.

When I ask why they feel this to be the case, the answer usually includes one or more of the following:

• We inherited years of dirty data.
• Our processes haven't been updated for years.
• We have no documented procedures to speak of.
• The system wasn't set up correctly.
• We just don't have the time.

My reply usually goes something like, "I feel you! But this doesn't have to be painful. It isn't even really hard. However, it does take time. You will need to make the time. Time to plan. Time to discuss. Time to analyze. Time to clean. Little bits of time over time is fine, but you have to make the time."

Determine what would create a sense of ease and simplicity in the system as well as serve your organization's current fundraising processes. Then chart a path forward to accomplish the changes you wish to make.

The changes don't have to be made all at once. Create a plan. Start simple with three or four tables that need to be cleaned up. Take the plan to your boss. Be sure to include a solid rational for starting with these tables, the proposed changes, and a timeframe. Rinse. Repeat.

If presented in a positive tone, your boss will appreciate the initiative and more than likely support your efforts.