A short, friendly course for anyone who keeps the data wheels turning in a charity. A strong database manager doesn’t just “run reports” or “fix data quality issues”. They help the whole organisation understand supporters better, spot opportunities earlier, and make decisions with confidence. This course gives people a clear, human starting point for the skills, habits and mindsets that make the biggest difference day-to-day. Across five quick, practical modules, we explore what it really takes to thrive in the role:
- Welcome: The Role of the Database Manager
This 90-second introduction shows that you are more than a system administrator — you are the quiet engine behind insight, income, and smoother supporter journeys. - Traits of a Great Database Person
A light, honest look at the blend of skills that matter most. Yes, technical knowledge helps — but curiosity, clarity and kindness often move the needle faster. Includes a short reflection worksheet to help you understand your own strengths. - Managing BAU vs Projects
How to juggle the daily essentials with the bigger changes your organisation needs. A mix of slides, text and a short video to help you protect accuracy while still making space for improvement. - Building Team Reputation
Why visibility matters, and how simple, steady communication builds trust. Comes with a downloadable checklist you can use straight away. - Reflection & Next Steps
A short pause to gather your thoughts and decide what you want to do differently in the weeks ahead.
By the end, learners will feel clearer, more confident, and better equipped to make data work for their charity — without needing to become a technical wizard.
Level:
Foundation
Membership Access:
Free
Learning Objectives:
- Understand what makes an effective database professional in a charity.
- Recognise the balance between BAU and project work.
- Learn how to build confidence, visibility, and credibility within your team.
Modules (Lesson Pages):
| Module | Title | Format | Key Takeaway |
| 1 | Welcome: The Role of the Database Manager | 90-sec video + short text | “You are the engine of your charity’s insight and fundraising success.” |
| 2 | Traits of a Great Database Person | Text + reflection worksheet | Technical and soft skills both matter; kindness and curiosity are your superpowers. |
| 3 | Managing BAU vs Projects | Text + Planner Template | How to balance daily accuracy with long-term change projects. |
| 4 | Building Team Reputation | Text + downloadable checklist | Visibility and communication build trust. |
| 5 | Reflection & Next Steps | Quiz | Plan one action to raise your data game this month. |
Related Downloads:
| Download Link | Format | Purpose | Practical Application |
| https://actuallydata.net/craft/resource/data-job-description-templates/ | PDF – Documents | Job Descriptions | Example job descriptions if you need to recruit a database role in your organisation. Junior / Mid and Senior roles |
| https://actuallydata.net/craft/resource/handover-checklist/ | PDF – Checklist | Resource for things to think about during a handover process | Checklist for when a database person leaves |
Lessons
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The role of a database manager
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Traits of a Great database person
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Managing your time
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Building a teams' reputation
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Reflections on your knowledge
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What you've learned through this course