Have you ever wondered why you collect some of your customer details?
For each data item can you identify the process in your organisation where it is actually used?
Have you developed documentation listing each data item and how it is used?
Do you regularly review such documentation to ensure it is up-to-date?
Not sure how to get started? >> access the Data Management Guide here

Ask yourself: Does the collection of this data justify the cost of looking after it?
Data may be collected on paper. Consider the paper used for no business return.
Data may be collected online. Consider the cost of implementing the software to collect that data so that it is validated, submitted safely, stored, and backed up... for no business need.

Is your data held in paper folders and/or electronic devices which are safely guarded?
Have you got backups on separate physical sites so that neither a fire, flood, or theft would stop your business from running?
Have you checked that the data collected online is appropriately handled by your website and website provider? At the very least, are the web pages encrypted?

Do you know what it costs your organisation to handle incorrect data?
Have you developed ways to look after the quality of this data which is the backbone of your business/group/or personal well-being?

Data comes in your world - somehow -, and it gets used - somehow -. All processes are in place but the human kind is very skilled at taking shortcuts especially if the importance of that data is not well understood. Take steps to ensure anyone involved with your data treats it as the great asset it is.

Invest in training people and measure a better return on investment.

Interested in reading more on the People Factor in Data Management, >> access the Presentation here