Bumper Hostetler, Vincennes University, read my handout, “Creating an effective fund development program.” She says that my writing is clear and concise and helpful. Thanks, Bumper, for the praise.
And Bumper adds one major point: “The single biggest failure always ends up being the creation of what I call a ‘Data Management system.” Bumper goes on to say: “Not just the list of names and information on people, but a functional daily system that all board members and staff understand and work with in order to effectively, efficiently, and systematically manage the information and thereby communicate with the donor base.”
And an additional important insight: “Board members and staff usually do not appreciate the critical nature of having a well-planned thought process for managing and using their information.”
Well said! How is the management information system in your organization? How much information do you have? What information do you lack? How will you get it? How will you use it well to nurture relationships with your donors and qualified prospects?
