Stop Collecting Data You Can’t Use: How to Focus on What Matters

In a recent video, I explored the idea of collecting the right data—not just more data. Now, I want to dig a little deeper into what that means in practice, and how your organization can use data to drive smarter decisions and real results.

Only Collect Data You Can Act On

It’s easy to fall into the trap of collecting all the data you can—but the better question is: what data will actually help you make decisions?

The first rule of meaningful data collection is this: Only collect data you can take action on. That means you need to start with a clear understanding of the problems you're trying to solve and the specific questions you need answered.

Without this clarity, it’s easy to waste time chasing metrics that look important but don’t help you move forward. The goal isn’t just to gather numbers; it’s to collect insights that drive action.

Use Data to Prioritize and Focus

Once you know what you’re solving for, data becomes a powerful tool for prioritizing your efforts. Instead of doing busy work or spreading your time thin across various activities, data can help you focus on what actually makes a difference.

It also helps guide your team’s time. By framing your data collection around specific questions, you give context and direction to your efforts—ensuring that your work is grounded in purpose, not just activity.

Build a Data-Driven Culture

Getting buy-in across your organization is just as important as identifying the right data. Many teams struggle to embrace data because it feels overwhelming, unfamiliar, or intimidating.

The solution? Start small and make it consistent.

Try this: for the next 90 days, bring data into every single meeting. Use it to ground conversations in reality, guide your decision-making, and reinforce your organizational goals.

When you consistently pull meaningful, actionable data into everyday discussions—and connect it back to the problem you're solving—your team will begin to see the value. Over time, they’ll shift their attitudes, behaviors, and habits in a positive direction.

Break It Down and Communicate Clearly

It’s not enough to have data experts. You also need people who can communicate insights clearly and in a way the whole team understands. This helps create a shared understanding of what’s working and what needs attention.

Keep in mind: your team is often the one collecting the data. If they don’t understand how it will be used, they’re less likely to document it well—or at all. When people understand that their contributions support the entire organization, not just future tasks or individual goals, they’re more likely to engage meaningfully.

Make Data a Habit

Sometimes, staff are hesitant to document because they’re protective of relationships or unsure of how the data will be used. This is natural—but it can be overcome by consistently using data in team settings, where its purpose and value are clear.

Start bringing data to your team meetings and let it shape how you work. This will refine how your organization thinks about, uses, and values data in the long term.

If you’d like to explore how to strengthen your organization’s data strategy or simply want to chat about how to get started, I’d love to help.