How many lists do you have?

One of the first questions I ask before taking on a consulting client is, "How many lists do you have?" Members, donors, students, grandparents, prospects, friends, board members are sometimes found in a multitude of places.  Consolidating and updating data is the most important first step to take before launching a capital campaign or other special effort.  Some key steps to take are:

1. Review and/or replace your current data management system.  Does it give you the capacity to manage the basic fund raising functions outline in this chart--recognition, receipting etc.?
2. Start today to gather e-mail addresses-I'm amazed at the number of annual fund response envelopes or membership forms that don't ask for email.
3. Consolidate list management responsibility. There needs to be a single portal.