This may sound like the end, but with a living, breathing database, there is no end! Once your database is rolled out and people are happy using it, it still needs care and attention.

You will already have assigned someone as the main Project Lead in Stage 2. For most small charities and community groups this is unlikely to be a dedicated role, but should be written into someone’s job description to formalise it and allocate appropriate training. 

These are some of the key tasks that will need to be allocated:

• Updating the database to meet changing organisational needs
• Checking data quality and consistency
• Adhering to GDPR procedures, such as gaining consent and deleting personal information on request
• Training and giving access to new users
• Providing first line support to users 
• Keeping track of new requirements as they come up 
• Working with the vendor to implement new requirements
• Keeping up-to-date with updates & improvements made by the vendor

A well-functioning database that continues to be fit for purpose, requires tender loving care!

Learn from Home Start Richmond, Kingston and Hounslow's experience of implementing a database and the benefits it brought to their organisation in this short YouTube video.