Data Management Skills

Five Data Management Skills that are important for successfully managing and using information.

Data Usage. The ability to use data effectively to improve your programs. Includes familiarity with the data available to you, knowledge of the goals of your program and needs of your clients/audience, and creative approaches to using data.

Software Skills. Knowing how to use database software to find records, sort, print, and other functions. Knowing how to use built-in forms and reports in a database. Exploring the software and learning new commands. Writing queries and reports in Access, using formulas in Excel or developing new layouts in FileMaker Pro.

Data Integrity. Understanding definitions, program guidelines, and sources of data. Developing clear channels of communication.

File Management. Knowing how to install files, import and export data, maintain backup files, make copies of files, create new folders. Knowing how to email files and how to download files from email or from websites. Understanding Windows concepts, including how to explore folders and file. Knowing how to create or remove shortcuts from the Desktop and/or the Start menu.

Planning and Design Skills. Understanding database design concepts, including relational database design (table structure; one-to-many relationships). Understanding the benefits and limits of various types of databases, including PC and online databases. Ability to participate in short-term and long-term planning about database projects and to decide how to efficiently store and analyze various types of data.

Developed by: The Skills Library * Jennifer Leonard * http://www.skillslibrary.com