CRM Software Advice: Plan Early For Dirty Data

VI. Plan Early For Dirty Data

Inconsistent and incomplete source data for conversion to the new CRM system is a common occurrence which often unnecessarily delays project schedules. To mitigate this potential delay, extract a sample of data very early in the process to validate the data cleanliness. Other data integration pitfalls include the following:

• Not thoroughly understanding data definitions (particularly down to the account activity and task levels)
• Lack of data quality (dirty or unscrubbed data)
• Data not synchronized between different systems (timing differences, multiple versions of the truth)
• Different or incomplete business rules (incomplete data in one system moved to another system; referential integrity breakdowns)
• Failure to vision and prepare for application software updates and upgrades
• Integration scope creep (particularly regarding data specification)

1. Start with Business Strategy
2. Assemble the Right Project Team
3. Leverage an Implementation Methodology
4. Insist Upon Structured Project Management
5. Prepare For Change Management
6. Plan Early For Dirty Data
7. Consider Best Practices Utilization
8. Don't Forget Risk Management