Case Study: University of Minnesota consolidates rogue databases and streamlines communications with thedatabank

University of Minnesota - Customer Case Study

The University of Minnesota’s Center for Youth Development (CYD) struggled with fragmented contact and program data: individual units and even staff members kept their own Excel sheets and Access files, which led to duplication, inconsistent communications, and limited visibility across the organization. Efforts to standardize were complicated by staff concerns about learning a new system, losing control of data, and university software policies.

CYD selected the Databank CRM to consolidate spreadsheets and Access databases (while keeping a few specialized systems in place), paired with clear policies, stakeholder involvement, and training. The shared platform reduced duplicate mailings, coordinated online and offline outreach, gave staff a single view of communications, clarified data responsibilities, and introduced online event registration and email automation—freeing time and improving outreach effectiveness.

University of Minnesota

Dale Blyth

Associate Dean