What Counts?

Counterparty Data Reconciliation at Scale: A 350,000-Record Case Study - E133

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 04 May 2026 14:27:44 +0000

Most counterparty data reconciliation projects fail at the same assumption: that one identifier — usually a tax ID — can resolve who you're actually doing business with. In Episode 133 of What Counts, Maura Dunn walks through a real two-year project to reconcile 350,000 counterparty records across eight systems at a company built through acquisition: four contract management platforms, one ERP carrying both customer and supplier masters, and three trading systems, each with its own naming conventions, character limits, and overflow fields. She unpacks the 18 months of unproductive matching that came first, the rule-precedence approach that finally worked once Snowflake and Elasticsearch replaced the spreadsheet attempts, and the 10-to-1 collapse from 350K records down to 35K true entities. She also makes the case for where AI fits this kind of work today — and the one thing it still can't do unless you put deep institutional knowledge into the prompt. If you want to see what's hiding in your own shared drives right now, search TrailBlazer Insight in the Microsoft Store — it scans locally for PII, HIPAA, PCI, and other compliance risks with no cloud upload and no IT ticket required. This episode picks up where Episode 132: Data Reconciliation Before AI left off — Maura delivers the full case study we teased last time. Topics covered in this episode include post-acquisition contract data cleanup, duplicate counterparty detection across multiple CLM platforms, rule-based data matching at scale using Snowflake and Elasticsearch, and the role of AI in contract data reconciliation when source systems lack consistent identifiers. Episode length: 00:21:01 0:00 – Pre-roll: TrailBlazer Insight — local compliance scanning for PII, HIPAA, and PCI 0:20 – Show intro 0:47 – Setting up the case study: 350,000 records across 8 systems 1:52 – How growth through acquisition created 7 (then 8) active counterparty sources 3:55 – Why the same legal entity can appear differently in every system 6:22 – The small business analogy: 4 addresses in 13 years 8:09 – The first 18 months: why tax ID matching failed at scale 10:48 – Name matching, character limits, overflow fields, and legacy system formatting 12:41 – Spreadsheet-by-spreadsheet spinning wheels 13:25 – The breakthrough: contract type bucketing + multi-variable matching 15:08 – Moving to Snowflake and Elasticsearch for rule-precedence matching 16:14 – Where AI could accelerate this today — and what it still needs from you 17:41 – The result: 350K records collapsed to 35K true entities 18:13 – What came out of all that work 19:49 – Teaser: next episode covers how to prevent this from happening again What Counts is produced by TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC and hosted by Lee Karas and Maura Dunn. Learn more at trailblazer.us.com or email us at info@trailblazer.us.com. Explore compliance-ready training at the TrailBlazer Learning Academy. Read more from Maura at mauradunn.substack.com. Music by Jason Blake. Full disclaimer.

Your Data Is Lying To You: Why Reconciliation Has To Come Before AI - E132

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 16:25:36 +0000

Episode 132 - Most organizations are being pushed to adopt AI-powered workflows before their data is anywhere close to ready. In this episode of What Counts, Maura and Lee pick up where they left off — diving deep into the concept of data reconciliation and why it must happen before AI ever touches your records. Using a real-world example built across multiple systems — a customer database, a work order system, and a contract management platform — they break down what it means to have duplicate, overlapping, and contradictory counterparty data, and why humans, not algorithms, are the ones who can resolve it. Maura introduces the concept of the golden record, explains the role of metadata mapping and fuzzy matching, and walks through the governance framework — policy, process, and system-of-record designation — that prevents the mess from coming back. If your organization is facing an AI initiative, a system migration, or growing pressure around data privacy and right-to-be-forgotten compliance, this episode gives you the foundational framework you need to start doing it right. Episode length: 00:26:36 Learn more by visiting our website, or by sending TrailBlazer an email at info@TrailBlazer.us.com.

Your Data Is Messy - Can AI Actually Handle It? - E131

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 06 Apr 2026 18:36:42 +0000

Episode 131 - Data governance and AI readiness go hand in hand — and most organizations aren't as ready as they think. In this episode, Maura and Lee take a hard look at what an AI-powered customer support escalation workflow actually requires to function. Spoiler: it's not just a smart model. It's clean, connected, versioned data — customer records, contract terms, and executed agreement instances all properly linked. Using a real-world cable company scenario, they unpack how disconnected systems, outdated identifiers, and missing metadata cause AI to hallucinate answers instead of finding them. The episode closes with an introduction to data objects and metadata mapping — and a preview of the counterparty reconciliation work that has to happen before AI can deliver on its promises. Episode length: 00:19:21 Learn more by visiting our website, or by sending TrailBlazer an email at info@TrailBlazer.us.com.

Contract Data Governance: Why AI Alone Won't Fix Conflicting Terms - E130

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 14:22:43 +0000

Episode 130 - When a company acquires another business, it inherits a tangled web of contracts — each with its own payment terms, clauses, and conditions. Contract one says 30 days, contract two says 45, and contract three says you never have to pay. So what happens when you point AI at this mess? In this episode of What Counts, we explore why contract data governance must come before AI deployment. AI is a powerful governance accelerator, but only when organizations harmonize their terms, configure their systems, and maintain human oversight every step of the way. Episode length: 00:17:12 Learn more by visiting our website, or by sending TrailBlazer an email at info@TrailBlazer.us.com.

Solving the Growth-Governance Tension: How to Accelerate Without Losing Control - E129

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 13:38:54 +0000

In this episode of What Counts, Lee and Maura move beyond diagnosing the tension between growth and governance and dive into what real solutions look like. From the “records police” stereotype to the engineering metaphor of an ungoverned engine ready to blow, they unpack why organizations struggle to balance speed with safety—and how cross‑functional coalitions can change everything. Through stories about generators, pencils, rogue sales promises, and the realities of legal, IT, compliance, and business teams working in silos, they reveal how governance becomes a true accelerator when everyone solves the problem together instead of alone. Episode length: 00:13:12 To find out more about TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC, please visit our website at www.TrailBlazer.us.com.

Growth vs Governance: The Tension Every Leader Feels - E128

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 16:43:24 +0000

Episode 128 - In this episode of What Counts, Lee and Maura dive into one of the most universal challenges leaders face: balancing the urgency of growth with the discipline of governance. From chasing new markets to managing real‑world information chaos—yes, even inside an information governance firm—they unpack why governance always feels like something you’ll “get to later,” and why “later” is exactly when the problems show up. Through candid stories and practical examples, they reveal how founders, operators, and executives can build sustainable growth without sacrificing control. Episode length: 00:14:26 Learn more by visiting our website, or by sending TrailBlazer an email at info@TrailBlazer.us.com.

When Workflow Fails: How Misaligned Policies Break Processes and Create Hidden Risk - E127

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 09 Feb 2026 17:05:33 +0000

Episode 127 - This episode of What Counts unpacks a problem every organization faces but few diagnose correctly: workflows fail when they don’t reflect the reality of how work actually gets done. Through real‑world examples—from delegated invoice approvals to storage and construction contracts—we explore how policy changes, unclear roles, and poorly analyzed workflows create bottlenecks, late payments, workarounds, and operational risk. The conversation highlights why modern workflow design must be grounded in process analysis, role clarity, and meaningful controls that support—not obstruct—the accomplishment of work. Episode length: 00:18:39 Learn more by visiting our website, or by sending TrailBlazer an email at info@TrailBlazer.us.com.

The Maturity Mirage: Why Organizations Think They're Well-Managed (But Aren't) - E126

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 26 Jan 2026 15:18:57 +0000

Episode 126 – Many organizations confidently claim they operate in a mature, well‑managed environment—until someone starts examining how work actually gets done. In this episode of What Counts, Maura and Lee unpack the “maturity mirage,” revealing why teams feel secure in their processes even as undocumented steps, inconsistent workflows, and workaround‑driven habits undermine that confidence. Drawing from real‑world experiences across industries, they explore how evidence often becomes a scavenger hunt, why search‑only strategies fall apart, and how organizations can finally align their perceived maturity with the truth of their day‑to‑day operations. Episode length: 00:16:49 Learn more by visiting our website,...

CLM Fundamentals: Why Readiness Matters More Than Software - E125

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 12 Jan 2026 16:31:47 +0000

Episode 125 - Contract Lifecycle Management touches every corner of an organization—finance, legal, procurement, operations, compliance, and the business itself. But despite the promise of modern CLM platforms, most implementations fail for one simple reason: the organization wasn’t ready for the software. In this episode of What Counts, Lee and Maura revisit a conversation recorded in early 2024, long before TrailBlazer Learning Academy and its governance accelerator templates were publicly available. With the Academy now live and widely adopted, the discussion is more relevant than ever. They explore why readiness, alignment, and governance‑ready templates are the true drivers of CLM success, and how TrailBlazer’s tools help organizations build clarity and confidence long before implementation begins. Episode Length: 00:25:32

Fact or Fiction: Governance Myths Part 2 - E124

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 29 Dec 2025 16:07:16 +0000

Episode 124 - Fact or Fiction. Governance gets a bad rap—too rigid, too bureaucratic, too “records police.” But in reality, good Information Governance is one of the most powerful accelerators a business can have. In this episode, we bust the most persistent myths holding teams back, from the idea that governance stifles innovation to the belief that it’s only for heavily regulated industries. You’ll hear how one startup used IG to fast‑track SOC 2 compliance and close enterprise deals, why every business with customers or content needs governance, and how healthy skepticism—not fear—keeps IG and AI working together. TrailBlazers know: governance isn’t a roadblock. It’s the runway. Episode Length: 00:12:34 Learn more by visiting our website, or by sending TrailBlazer an email at info@TrailBlazer.us.com.

Fact or Fiction: Busting the Myths of Information Governance Part 1 - E123

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 15 Dec 2025 16:08:32 +0000

Episode 123 - Fact or Fiction. Welcome to What Counts by TrailBlazer Consulting, the podcast where we cut through the noise and uncover what truly matters in information governance. In Episode 123, Lee and Maura tackle the most common myths using a “Fact or Fiction” format—debunking misconceptions like “IG is just records management” or “Governance is IT’s job.” From startups to enterprises, you’ll learn why governance isn’t a dusty binder but a growth enabler, a compliance accelerator, and a trust builder. If you’ve ever wondered what IG really is, this episode sets the record straight. Episode Length: 00:18:39 Learn more by visiting our website, or by sending TrailBlazer an email at info@trailblazer.us.com.

From Spark to Scale: Mastering the IP Lifecycle - E122

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 15:49:05 +0000

Episode 122: IP Lifecycle or Intellectual property isn’t just about filing a trademark or patent—it’s the full journey of your ideas, inventions, and creative assets. At TrailBlazer Consulting, we define the IP lifecycle as a living process: creation, documentation, protection, utilization, monitoring, and disposition. When managed strategically, IP becomes more than a legal checkbox—it transforms into a scalable asset that drives revenue, strengthens negotiations, and safeguards legacy. In this episode of What Counts, we break down why most companies get IP wrong, how to build governance-ready systems, and how to treat IP like equity—because it is. Episode Length: 00:20:10

Own What You Know: Turning Expertise Into IP - E121

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 17 Nov 2025 15:21:10 +0000

Episode 121 - Every business starts with a purpose—but sustaining it requires more than passion. It demands clarity. In this episode, we unpack why documenting your know-how isn’t just smart—it’s strategic. Your intellectual capital is the blueprint of your value, the reason clients trust you, and the asset that makes your business scalable, sellable, and defensible. Whether you're a founder, consultant, or executive, it’s time to capture what you do—and own it. Episode Length: 00:13:02

Business Records and Contracts: How Documentation Drives Growth, Compliance, and Strategy - E120

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 03 Nov 2025 16:30:46 +0000

Episode 120 - In this episode, we explore how records and contracts aren’t just administrative necessities—they’re strategic assets that shape the trajectory of a business. From articles of incorporation and bylaws to board minutes and inter-entity agreements, these documents form the governance-grade foundation TrailBlazer Consulting champions. They offer more than a compliance snapshot—they reveal operational intent, strategic alignment, and the maturity of decision-making. While accounting records track financial flow, contracts often introduce performance thresholds, fee structures, and service expectations that can be leveraged to maximize value. A well-structured agreement doesn’t just define scope—it activates outcomes. And with the rise of AI, businesses now have the opportunity to analyze these documents at scale, surface trends, and identify logical connections—provided the human context is clearly defined first. At TrailBlazer, we view documentation as a lens into business integrity, scalability, and readiness for what’s next. Episode Length: 00:17:14

From Press to Pixel: The Evolution of Recorded Communication - E119

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Tue, 21 Oct 2025 21:34:37 +0000

Episode 119 - From press to pixel. In this episode, we journey through the transformative history of recorded communication—from press to pixel. The invention of the printing press to the rise of typewriters and the proliferation of copiers. We examine how Gutenberg’s movable type democratized access to written knowledge, how typewriters standardized documentation across government and industry, and how copiers ushered in the age of mass duplication and desktop publishing. These innovations didn’t just change how records were created—they reshaped governance, education, and the very architecture of information. Whether you're a compliance professional, historian, or tech enthusiast, this episode offers a compelling look at the tools that built our modern recordkeeping systems. Episode Length: 00:20:18

From Clay Tablets to Cloud: The Timeless Power of Records - E118

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 06 Oct 2025 15:42:22 +0000

Discover how recordkeeping evolved from clay tablets to cloud-based systems. Lee and Maura explore the timeless principles of governance, transparency, and accountability that shape how we document and manage information today. Episode length: 00:16:33

Data That Drives You: How Small Businesses Can Protect, Classify, and Retain What Matters - E117

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 22 Sep 2025 15:54:41 +0000

Episode 117 - In this episode, we unpack the hidden backbone of every business: data. From handwritten guest books to sophisticated CRMs, we explore the many forms customer and operational data can take—and why protecting it is non-negotiable. You’ll learn how to classify data by sensitivity, navigate privacy laws, and build retention schedules that meet legal and operational needs. Whether you're managing supplier contracts, employee records, or financial documents, this 10-minute primer will help you understand what to keep, how long to keep it, and where to start. Plus, we share a free resource from TrailBlazer Learning Academy to help you build your own retention schedule with confidence. Episode Length: 00:24:09 Learn more by visiting our website, or by sending TrailBlazer an email at info@TrailBlazer.us.com.

Operational Roots: Building Business Infrastructure That Powers Growth - E116

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 08 Sep 2025 14:22:32 +0000

Episode 116 - In this episode of TrailBlazer, Maura and Lee dive into the essential components of business infrastructure setup—the behind-the-scenes systems that shape how your business communicates, operates, and scales. From branded office supplies that silently reinforce professionalism to hardware and software that streamline operations, every element plays a strategic role. Learn how to embed value positioning into your templates, choose tech that supports compliance and mobility, and create a digital presence that converts. Whether you're launching or leveling up, this episode reveals how infrastructure becomes the root system of sustainable growth. Episode Length: 00:10:58 Learn more by visiting our website, or by sending TrailBlazer an email at info@TrailBlazer.us.com.

Understanding Payroll and Hiring Decisions: Strategies for Your Business - E115

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 25 Aug 2025 17:49:27 +0000

Welcome to What Counts, the podcast where we decode the complexities of information governance and spotlight the strategies that drive operational maturity. In this episode, we’re diving into the foundational—but often overlooked—pillars of business success: payroll and human resources. From navigating payroll taxes and compliance to designing benefits that serve both your team and your bottom line, we’ll explore how intentional HR planning can protect your business, fuel growth, and create a resilient workplace culture. Whether you're scaling a startup or refining enterprise operations, this episode offers actionable insights to help you hire smarter, report cleaner, and build stronger Episode length: 00:20:41

Payroll & HR That Scale: Building Backbone Systems for Growth, Compliance, and Culture - E114

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 11 Aug 2025 20:12:57 +0000

Welcome to What Counts, the podcast where information governance meets real-world strategy. In this episode, Lee and Maura unpack the often-overlooked—but absolutely mission-critical—domains of Payroll and Human Resources. From tax compliance and structured reporting to strategic hiring and benefits that actually benefit the business, we explore how these foundational systems can drive resilience, reduce risk, and support scalable growth. Whether you're a founder navigating first hires or a compliance lead refining your employee life cycle, this episode delivers actionable insights to help you build HR and payroll processes that are audit-ready, culture-conscious, and built to last. Episode length: 00:19;51

Track to Thrive: How Time and Inventory Management Drive Profitability and Compliance - E113

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 28 Jul 2025 14:59:21 +0000

Episode 113 - In today’s fast-paced business landscape, tracking isn’t just a back-office chore—it’s a strategic advantage. Whether you're managing a lean startup or scaling operations, accurate time and inventory tracking can make or break your bottom line. In this episode of What Counts?, we dive into why tracking matters—from streamlining payroll and boosting productivity to preventing inventory loss and improving cash flow. You’ll learn how modern tools like digital timesheets, automated payroll systems, and real-time inventory software can transform your operations. Tune in to discover actionable strategies that help you stay compliant, efficient, and profitable. Episode length 00:18:17

Financial Clarity for Entrepreneurs: Practical Tips - E112

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 14 Jul 2025 13:39:08 +0000

Episode E112 - In this episode of What Counts?, Maura and Lee unpack foundational financial management strategies and practical tips that every entrepreneur should know. From separating business and personal finances to choosing the right accounting software, this conversation is your guide to staying organized, building credibility, and planning for long-term success. Listeners will learn: -Why keeping business finances separate matters: Better organization, smoother tax reporting, and enhanced professional credibility. -How to open a business account: Choosing the right bank, preparing your documents, and selecting account features like checks and debit/credit cards for financial flexibility. -Selecting accounting software: QuickBooks is highlighted as a top choice for automating income and expense tracking, managing invoices, categorizing transactions, and staying compliant with tax regulations. -Best practices for financial success: Weekly transaction reconciliation, leveraging reports for decision-making, and setting up automated reminders for payments and tax deadlines. -Whether you're launching your first venture or fine-tuning your financial systems, this episode offers actionable insights designed to simplify your processes and empower your business journey. Episode length 00:17:10

Why Every Business Needs a Trusted Lawyer and Accountant from Day One - E111

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 17:25:37 +0000

Why every business needs a trusted lawyer and accountant from days one. Welcome to What Counts, the podcast that explores the power of information governance and the strategies behind smarter business decisions. In this episode, hosts Lee and Maura unpack one of the most critical, yet often overlooked, components of entrepreneurial success: professional support. From choosing the right business structure to mastering tax strategy and protecting your intellectual property, the right lawyer and accountant can be the difference between smooth scaling and costly setbacks. Tune in as we share real-world insights and practical guidance on how to build your business with the right experts by your side. Episode length 00:15:20

Future-Proofing Your Business: How to Plan, Lead, and Build for What's Next - E110

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 16 Jun 2025 14:55:26 +0000

Future-proofing your business in today's fast-paced world is a challenge. Businesses that thrive are those that anticipate change before it happens. In this episode of What Counts, hosts Maura and Lee break down the essential framework for smart planning: seeing opportunities, watching for market signals, and building strategic plans that ensure long-term success. Whether it's adapting to industry trends, improving information governance, or strengthening business resilience, this discussion highlights proven methods to lead, work, and build toward a future that works for you. Tune in to learn how top innovators spot opportunities, decode market shifts, and create a strategic blueprint for success. Don't wait for change-get ahead of it. Episode length 00:19:04

Branding Basics: Logo Design & Name Registration - E109

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 02 Jun 2025 16:04:56 +0000

Episode 109 - Branding basics at What Counts, the podcast dedicated to navigating the world of information governance with expert insights and actionable strategies. In this episode, hosts Maura and Lee explore the fundamentals of branding and marketing, covering two essential steps: creating a compelling logo and registering your business name. Whether you're launching a startup or refining an established brand, understanding these key branding elements is crucial to standing out in a competitive market. Learn how strong branding enhances credibility, attracts customers, and sets the foundation for a successful business. Discover expert tips on choosing the right business name, ensuring legal compliance, and designing an effective logo that resonates with your audience. Tune in to gain valuable branding knowledge that will help you build a lasting impression and drive your business forward! Episode length 00:13:04.

Business Foundation: Essential Legal and Strategic Steps - E108

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 19 May 2025 18:23:14 +0000

Building a business foundation requires more than a great idea—it demands proper legal structuring and compliance. In this episode, we explore key foundational steps, including filing Articles of Incorporation to establish your entity, crafting a mission statement to define your business’s purpose, and drafting a General Operating Agreement to clarify roles and responsibilities among stakeholders. Additionally, we break down the essential process of filing with the IRS, securing an Employer Identification Number (EIN), and setting up your corporate details to ensure tax compliance. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or refining your existing business framework, this episode offers actionable insights to protect your assets, maintain alignment, and build a resilient foundation for long-term success. Tune in to streamline your path to business ownership! Episode length 00:16:35

Choosing the Right Business Structure: Legal Formation - E107

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 05 May 2025 14:15:33 +0000

Establishing a business starts with selecting the right legal structure, which impacts taxes, liability, and operational flexibility. Entrepreneurs can choose from Sole Proprietorships for simplicity, Partnerships for shared ownership, LLCs for liability protection, C Corporations for investor appeal despite double taxation, or S Corporations for tax advantages with ownership limitations. Careful evaluation of these options ensures alignment with long-term business goals and financial considerations. Once the legal structure is determined, the next crucial step is filing the Articles of Incorporation, which formalizes the business entity. This documentation includes essential details such as the business name, purpose, registered agent, and incorporators' information. Properly completing and filing these documents ensures legal recognition, compliance, and a strong foundation for growth and operational success. Episode length 00:20:05.

Resilient by Design: Today's Business Landscape - E106

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 21 Apr 2025 15:21:37 +0000

In today's fast-moving market, adaptability isn't a luxury-it's a necessity. Success belongs to businesses that are resilient by design, stay motivated, and build a foundation strong enough to withstand uncertainty. In this episode, we explore what it takes to remain robust in an ever-evolving economy, from fostering a continuous learning mindset to navigating unexpected challenges. Whether you're a startup or an established enterprise, the key to long-term growth lies in agility, innovation, and the courage to keep moving forward. Join us as we break down the strategies that turn obstacles into opportunities and setbacks into stepping stones. Episode length 00:19:05.

Strategic Growth: Defining and Scaling Your Business While Balancing Talent and Profitability - E105

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 07 Apr 2025 13:24:35 +0000

2025 Episode 105 - Strategic growth: defining, building, and scaling your business while balancing talent and profitability are just a few items you will hear about in our second video episode. Launching and strategically growing a business requires more than just a vision—it demands strategic decision-making at every stage. In this episode, we explore the foundational steps of defining your business purpose, crafting an operational strategy, and setting a path for sustainable growth. We tackle the balancing act between hiring the right team, investing in training, and maintaining profitability while continuously evaluating performance to drive success. Whether you're a startup founder or an established entrepreneur, this discussion will provide actionable insights for structuring a business that thrives in an evolving market. Episode length 00:14:53

Starting a Business and Information Governance Challenges - E104

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 24 Mar 2025 17:49:50 +0000

2025 Episode 104 – We're thrilled to bring you something brand-new with our first-ever video episode! As we explore this exciting format, we kindly ask for your patience as we work through learning new tricks to deliver the best possible video experience for you. In this inaugural video episode, we’ll dive into the compelling world of starting a business. From the initial spark of an idea to tackling the tough realities of implementation, we’ll examine the challenges—and specifically, the information governance challenges—that entrepreneurs often face on their journey. To enrich the conversation, we’ll not only introduce essential business concepts but also share practical insights from our own experiences at TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC. We’ll compare the subject matter to how we’ve navigated these very challenges, providing real-world context and actionable takeaways for you. Let’s get started on this journey together as we blaze new trails in business, information governance, and this exciting video format. Stay tuned, and thank you for joining us! Episode length 00:00:00

Infrastructure: Devils in the Details - E103

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 14:14:51 +0000

2025 Episode 103 – The devils in the details when it comes to infrastructure. Following along with the components of TrailBlazer’s Information Design framework, we cover the base component - Infrastructure. Where are the devils in the details when it comes to Infrastructure? Join Information Governance (IG) Consultants, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas, as they explain where devils in the details hide when it comes to Infrastructure. Each episode contains important information gained through our experience working with companies across various industries and we talk about how you can apply this experience to your company. Episode length 00:10:24.

Applications: Devils in the Details - E102

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 24 Feb 2025 16:56:39 +0000

2025 Episode 102 – The devils in the details when it comes to applications. Following along with the components of TrailBlazer’s Information Design framework, we cover one of the supporting pillars called Applications. Where are the devils in the details when it comes to Applications? Join Information Governance (IG) Consultants, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas, as they explain where devils in the details hide when it comes to Applications. Each episode contains important information gained through our experience working with companies across various industries and we talk about how you can apply this experience to your company.

Data | Content: Devils in the Details - E101

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 10 Feb 2025 17:26:10 +0000

2025 Episode 101 – The devils in the details when it comes to data | content. Following along with the components of TrailBlazer’s Information Design framework, we cover one of the supporting pillars called Data | Content. Where are the devils in the details when it comes to Data | Content? Join Information Governance (IG) Consultants, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas, as they give a slightly cautionary tale on how the devils can be in the details when it comes to Data | Content. Each episode contains important information gained through our experience working with companies across various industries and we talk about how you can apply this experience to your company.

What Counts Episode 100 - E100

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 27 Jan 2025 18:30:14 +0000

2025 Episode 100 – We took a break from the current subject matter and pulled together this celebratory What Counts Episode 100. We take a look back at some of the most viewed What Counts episodes. Additionally, we provide insight on who we are doing this podcast for and how you can use the information at your own organization. Join Information Governance (IG) Consultants, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas, as they celebrate their 100 episode by recapping the past 99 episodes. Each episode contains important information gained through our experience working with companies across various industries and we talk about how you can apply this experience to your company.

Process: Devils in the Details - E99

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 13 Jan 2025 16:05:08 +0000

2024 Episode 99 – The devils in the details when it comes to process. Following along with the components of TrailBlazer’s Information Design framework, we cover one of the supporting pillars called process. Where are the devils in the details when it comes to process? Join Information Governance (IG) Consultants, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas, as they discuss how different companies feel about documenting processes. Each episode contains important information gained through our experience working with companies across various industries and we talk about how you can apply this experience to your company.

Policy: Devils in the Details - E98

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Fri, 03 Jan 2025 18:34:06 +0000

2024 Episode 98 – Where do the devils in the details hide when it comes to policy implementation? This episode explains policy-related devils in the details making it clear what to watch out for when creating or modifying company policies. Join Information Governance (IG) Consultants, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas, as they provide recommendations and certain pitfalls to watch out for when implementing IG policies. Each episode contains important information gained through our experience working with companies across various industries and we talk about how you can apply this experience to your company.

Episode length 00:11:56

Governance Devils and Details - E97

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 16 Dec 2024 16:03:00 +0000

2024 Episode 97 - Details are important in information governance planning and implementation. Based off the TrailBlazer Framework, explained in Episode 96, we dive further into the devils in the details when it comes to Governance. This episode ‘Governance Devils and Details’ gives you insights into the important considerations for setting up your information governance. Join IG Consultants, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas, as they help establish the governance section of an information governance program. Each episode contains important information gained through our experience working with companies across various industries and we talk about how you can apply this experience to your company.

Details Are Important In Information Governance - E96

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Tue, 03 Dec 2024 00:27:17 +0000

2024 Episode 96 - Details are important in information governance planning and implementation. The devils are in the details when it comes to trying to get information governance activities moving forward in your organization. Join Information Governance Consultants, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas, as they use the TrailBlazer Framework to help explain where the devils in the details can hide. Each episode contains important information gained through our experience working with companies across various industries and we talk about how you can apply this experience to your company.

Strange Information Governance Moments - E95

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 15:52:12 +0000

2024 Episode 95 - Some of our strange information governance moments over the years. We talk about our strange moments in information governance but would love to hear from you. Drop us a line at info@trailbazer.us.com and tell us about your strangest information governance moments.

The Artificial Intelligence (AI) Episode - E94

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 04 Nov 2024 16:02:33 +0000

2024 Episode 94 – Artificial Intelligence (AI) and how it can help the Information Governance Professional. We have come a long way from the days of autoclassification in records management. Join Information Governance Consultants, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas, as they give their opinion on the good and bad of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Each episode contains important information gained through our experience working with companies across various industries and we talk about how you can apply this experience to your company.

Inundated with too much data daily? - E93

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 21 Oct 2024 20:51:27 +0000

2024 Episode 93 – Inundated with too much data daily? Learn how Information Governance can help you sort through and handle data inundation by using your organization’s records retention schedule (RRS). Your RRS is more than just a records management policy. Join Information Governance Consultants, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas, as they explain how a records retention schedule can become the backbone for automated filing, tagging, and email management. Each episode contains important information gained through our experience working with companies across various industries and we talk about how you can apply this experience to your company.

Raw Data vs Manipulated Data - E92

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 07 Oct 2024 16:13:57 +0000

2024 Episode 92 – What does it mean to give your employees access to raw data instead of manipulated data in the format they are used to? Which is greater, the potential for better reporting and results or disaster and confusion? Join Information Governance Consultants, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas, as they explain the difference between raw data and manipulated data in the context of large scale reporting requirements. Each episode contains important information gained through our experience working with companies across various industries and we talk about how you can apply this experience to your company.

Statistical Sampling Analysis: Backfile Characterization - E91

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 23 Sep 2024 13:26:40 +0000

2024 Episode 91 – This episode will provide you with an understanding of how to use the backfile characterization methodology to perform a statistical sampling analysis. Join Information Governance Consultants, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas, as they explain how the backfile characterization was used to locate certain records instead of searching for records to destroy. Each episode contains important information gained through our experience working with companies across various industries and we talk about how you can apply this experience to your company.

Implement a Backfile Characterization - E90

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 09 Sep 2024 13:44:56 +0000

2024 Episode 90 – Implement a backfile characterization on your organization’s offsite storage boxes or electronic files in line with defensible destruction. This episode will provide you an understanding of how to perform a backfile characterization. Join Information Governance Consultants, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas, as they provide the requirements for performing a backfile characterization project at your organization. Each episode contains important information gained through our experience working with companies across various industries and we talk about how you can apply this experience to your company. Episode length 00:18:40.

Office Clutter: An Introduction to Backfile Characterization - E89

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 26 Aug 2024 15:50:51 +0000

2024 Episode 89 – Does your organization have too much electronic and physical paper cluttering up your systems, hallways, and office space? This episode will provide you with an introduction to a backfile characterization project. Join Information Governance Consultants, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas, as they introduce a backfile characterization project. Each episode contains important information gained through our experience working with companies across various industries and we talk about how you can apply this experience to your company.

Facing an Office Move or Office Closure? - E88

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Wed, 14 Aug 2024 01:30:36 +0000

2024 Episode 88 – How you as an IG professional can help your organization during an office move or office closure. It’s not the end of the world if you are the one stuck having to cleanup after an office move or office closure. Join Information Governance Consultants, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas, as they discuss a couple of ways to deal with the material left behind after an office move or office closure. Each episode contains important information gained through our experience working with companies across various industries and we talk about how you can apply this experience to your company.

IG Documentation - E87

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Wed, 31 Jul 2024 15:35:36 +0000

2024 Episode 87 – IG documentation - what is that all about? Are you, as an Information Governance Professional, interested in learning the important items to document for company prosperity. Join Information Governance Consultants, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas, as they discuss IG documentation routine verses non-routine. Each episode contains important information gained through our experience working with companies across various industries and we talk about how you can apply this experience to your company.

Legal Holds - E86

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 15 Jul 2024 17:40:44 +0000

2024 Episode 86 – Are legal holds important? Does your organization know how to implement a legal hold? Join Information Governance Consultants, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas, as they discuss legal holds and what information should be included in a hold.

Legacy Data Issues? What to do - E85

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 01 Jul 2024 16:26:16 +0000

2024 Episode 85 – Are you having legacy data issues? Are you wondering what you should do with legacy data? Join Information Governance Consultants, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas, as they give their guidance on what companies should do with legacy data. Each episode contains important information gained through our experience working with companies across various industries and we talk about how you can apply this experience to your company. Episode length 00:14:10.

Document Migration - E84

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 17 Jun 2024 16:16:03 +0000

2024 Episode 84 – What are the important steps for matching documents to data to ensure accurate document migration? How do you find all the places where documents are stored to migrate the appropriate documents? Join Information Governance Consultants, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas, as they explain important steps for document migration. Each episode contains important information gained through our experience working with companies across various industries and we talk about how you can apply this experience to your company. Episode length 00:19:46.

Sponsorship Changes - E83

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 18:13:28 +0000

2024 Episode 83 – What do you do when your project sponsor leaves? Project sponsorship changes affect all aspects of your information governance program, including individual projects. What do you do now? How will you position yourself and your program after key sponsorship changes. Join Information Governance Consultants, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas, as they help guide you through steps you can take to ease the impact of a key sponsorship change. Each episode contains important information gained through our experience working with companies across various industries and we talk about how you can apply this experience to your company.

Zombie Systems - E82

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 20 May 2024 20:16:01 +0000

2024 Episode 82 – What do you do with the old data left behind in zombie systems after you start using your brand-new system? IG professionals know that old data cannot just go away and that the appropriate retention should be applied. Join Information Governance Consultants, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas, as they help you use zombie system costs to bulk up your new system business case and help apply retention. Each episode contains important information gained through our experience working with companies across various industries and we talk about how you can apply this experience to your company.

Why IT Should Be Your IG Partner - E81

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 06 May 2024 15:16:47 +0000

2024 Episode 81 – A few reasons why information governance professionals should partner with IT. Join Information Governance Consultants, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas, as they explain the reasons why IG professionals need to understand and partner with IT. Each episode contains important information gained through our experience working with companies across various industries and we talk about how you can apply this experience to your company.

System Testing and Go/No-Go Decision - E80

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 22 Apr 2024 15:27:13 +0000

2024 Episode 80 – A review of the different levels of system testing and help to make that final Go/No-Go decision to put your contract management solution into production a little easier. Join Information Governance Consultants, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas, as they review testing methods like making sure your configuration matches your design, making sure the functions work the way they are supposed to, checking that the integrations work, and involving users to test their specific areas. Each episode contains important information gained through our experience working with companies across various industries and we talk about how you can apply this experience to your company.

Don't Underestimate Contract Data and Document Cleanup - E79

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 08 Apr 2024 15:37:52 +0000

2024 Episode 79 – Don’t underestimate the time necessary for contract data and document cleanup. What items are frequently overlooked when looking at contract data? Join Information Governance Consultants, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas, as they share a few suggested approaches to help you not underestimate contract data and document cleanup. Each episode contains important information gained through our experience working with companies across various industries and we talk about how you can apply this experience to your company. Episode length 00:15:23

Why Capture Current Contract Processes - E78

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 25 Mar 2024 16:31:44 +0000

Do you think process mapping is just a bunch of consulting buzz words? Learn how important it is to capture current contract processes before you implement software. Join Information Governance Consultants, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas, as they discuss where to start in order to capture current contract processes. Each episode contains important information gained through our experience working with companies across various industries and we talk about how you can apply this experience to your company. Episode length 00:12:17

Contract Lifecycle Management Functionality - E77

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 11 Mar 2024 15:08:21 +0000

2024 Episode 77 – How to understand Contract Lifecycle Management functionality to apply it to your organization’s needs. What are some of the unique things about CLM functionality that you should know to aid in the setup of new processes for your organization. Join Information Governance Consultants, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas, as they discuss contract lifecycle management functionality. Each episode contains important information gained through our experience working with companies across various industries and we talk about how you can apply this experience to your company.

Implementing Software - Read This! - E76

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 26 Feb 2024 15:06:57 +0000

2024 Episode 76 - Implementing software at your organization? This episode is a great guide to all the elements necessary to make implementing software or any program a success. Join Information Governance Consultants, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas, as they discuss the TrailBlazer Information Design Framework. Each episode contains important information gained through our experience working with companies across various industries and we talk about how you can apply this experience to your company.

Contract Management - E75

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 12 Feb 2024 14:38:51 +0000

What is contract management? Why is it sometimes called contract lifecycle management? Why should you be concerned? Do contracts really rule the world? Join Information Governance Consultants, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas, as they introduce contract management and explain what contract lifecycle management means for your business. Each episode contains important information gained through our experience working with companies across various industries and we talk about how you can apply this experience to your company.

Lessons Learned - E74

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 29 Jan 2024 17:12:36 +0000

You figured out whether to do a pilot project or a proof of concept, now document your lessons learned. How many hypotheses are too many to test for with a pilot project? What do you do with the lessons learned that you collected? Join Information Governance Consultants, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas, as they give real life examples to help document and follow up on lessons learned. Each episode contains important information to help guide businesspeople with project implementation.

Pilot Project vs Proof Of Concept - E73

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Tue, 16 Jan 2024 16:33:30 +0000

2024 Episode 73 – What’s the difference between a pilot project vs proof of concept? Can one be more technical in natural than the other? Is a pilot project all about people and process? Join Information Governance Consultants, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas, as they give real life examples to help explain the difference between a pilot project vs proof of concept.

Changes, What Changes? E72

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Wed, 03 Jan 2024 00:26:23 +0000

Changes, what changes? What do you do after you tested your organization for implementation readiness? Be prepared, remain flexible, and make sure your change management person is ready.

Organizational Readiness E71

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 18 Dec 2023 15:52:41 +0000

After setting up your project success factors it’s time to assess the readiness of your people, processes, and technology.

Project Success Factors - E70

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 04 Dec 2023 17:23:53 +0000

Just assess the impact on people, process, and technology. That’s easier said than done. Join Information Governance Consultants, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas, as they give real life examples to help better understand people, process, and technology for more effective project implementation.

Key Team Members Make Information Governance Change Happen! - E69

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 20 Nov 2023 18:34:10 +0000

Do you struggle to understand why your information governance project is not gaining the traction you expected? Join Information Governance Consultants, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas, as they discuss best practices developed over the past 10 years for engaging key team members in your organization for keeping your project on track. Each episode contains important information to help information governance professionals make an even greater impact at their organizations.

Assessment Questions - E68

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 06 Nov 2023 15:41:48 +0000

This episode is great for individuals who want to explore the root cause of information governance issues at their organization and find out how information is flowing across the organization.

Republishing Data and Information Management Challenges - E67

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 23 Oct 2023 15:45:53 +0000

I'm sure at one point or another you were looking for a file, report, or email and said "I can't find what I want when I need it". If this is you, then listening to this episode may give you some practical insight into the root of your problem, and help get organized and increase efficiency.

From Records Management to Information Governance - E66

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 09 Oct 2023 15:41:44 +0000

Information governance is helping companies actively use their information to make better business decisions and contributing to overall cost savings. Information governance transitioned from an administrative cost to value and capital investment.

Asset Data Management Summary - E65

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 25 Sep 2023 15:22:20 +0000

This summary will review the steps necessary for creating an asset data management program that links to your asset management strategy and your company’s overall business strategy.

Depreciation and Taxes for Physical Assets - E64

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 11 Sep 2023 14:00:35 +0000

Learn the importance of having a strong asset data structure and asset information model to create the links between how the finance, engineering, capital development or construction teams can plan for the financial impact of your assets.

Inventory Management - E63

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 16:38:08 +0000

Linking parts and inventory management to your asset information management activities.

Revenue Generating Assets - E62

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 14 Aug 2023 16:27:03 +0000

Knowing how many contracts are depending on an asset in your company fully functioning at optimal capacity will help focus maintenance. Join Information Governance Consultants, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas, as they discuss a plan for having revenue generating assets.

Finding Your Assets: Asset Definitions And Location Hierarchies - E61

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 31 Jul 2023 16:20:03 +0000

Real-life examples of how detailed design documents may not help in finding your assets without asset definitions and naming conventions.

Follow The Yellow Brick Road Of Data - E60

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 17 Jul 2023 13:56:09 +0000

The challenge is to trace the important data that meets your asset definitions and get it into your systems so that your information is up to date.

Building Practical Asset IDs - E59

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Thu, 06 Jul 2023 16:57:56 +0000

Deciding on practical asset IDs does not have to be difficult and should not include building meaning into a long string of characters.

Deciding on Practical Definitions for Assets - E58

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 19 Jun 2023 15:25:23 +0000

Deciding on practical definitions for your infrastructure assets. What key factors can you use to help define these assets?

Define What Constitutes An Asset - E057

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 05 Jun 2023 14:19:19 +0000

Why is it important for your whole company to have the same understanding on what are its physical assets? You’ll be surprised by the answers you get when you ask different parts of your organization to define what constitutes an asset.

Introduction to Asset Data Management - E056

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 22 May 2023 17:34:15 +0000

An introduction to asset data management for physical infrastructure assets.

Business Process Map vs Records Process Map - E055

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 08 May 2023 15:43:01 +0000

Records Process Maps are an excellent way to help uncover and reduce the number of silos within an organization.

Identify Data For a Spinoff or Divestiture - E054

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 24 Apr 2023 19:36:02 +0000

What information governance professionals can do to help their organization ensure the correct data gets delivered to the new organization.

Merger - Now What? - E053

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 10 Apr 2023 16:32:08 +0000

A merger is a great opportunity for an information governance professional to help their organization get through all the data challenges.

The Information Governance Professional's Ultimate Guide to Mergers & Acquisitions - E052

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 27 Mar 2023 18:04:56 +0000

How can an IG professional help prepare their organization to handle an M&A event and better position themselves in the process?

Is an ECM Solution Right for Email Management? - E051

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 13 Mar 2023 15:12:29 +0000

Would an ECM solution be the right fit for your organization to use to manage email?

Steps to Email Management - E050

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 27 Feb 2023 17:38:56 +0000

Steps to email management.

The Importance Of Email Management - E049

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 13 Feb 2023 16:50:08 +0000

The Importance of Email Management

Spreadsheets: Do They Mask More Serious IG Issues? - E048

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 30 Jan 2023 16:50:51 +0000

2023 Episode 48 – Who knows what lurks behind the use of spreadsheets in your organization? Could spreadsheets be masking serious information governance issues? Join information governance consultants, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas, as they share the top three issues masked by the use of spreadsheets at various organizations. Each episode contains powerful information to help improve the visibility of your information governance program and help reduce risk throughout your organization. Also included are the beginning steps to Master Data Management (MDM) and how closely connected MDM is to Information Governance. Episode length 00:13:37 Learn more by visiting our website,...

The Secret To Process Improvement - E047

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Tue, 17 Jan 2023 16:18:37 +0000

Best kept secret to implementing process improvement

Top 5 Information Governance Challenges - E046

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Tue, 03 Jan 2023 15:40:05 +0000

Top 5 IG Challenges

Why Your Organization Needs An Electronic Communications Policy - E045

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 19 Dec 2022 16:45:33 +0000

Does your organization struggle with whether or not to capture chats, text messages, or to record conference calls?

Records Retention Schedule Implementation - E044

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 05 Dec 2022 16:26:21 +0000

Do you struggle to have your Records Retention Schedule gain utilization across your organization?

Policy Rollout Best Practices - E043

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 21 Nov 2022 16:36:06 +0000

Each episode contains powerful information to help improve the visibility of your information governance program and increase its effectiveness across your organization.

The Importance of Connecting Information Classification with Records Retention - E042

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 07 Nov 2022 15:08:52 +0000

2022 Episode 42 – Connecting information classification with your organization’s records retention schedule can help protect high risk records. Selecting the correct classification levels and applying those classifications to record categories in your records retention schedule will result in more practical implementation. In this episode, your hosts, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas, provide guidance on developing information classification categories and linking that information to your records retention schedule. (Episode length 00:16:19) Learn more by visiting our website, or by sending TrailBlazer an email at info@TrailBlazer.us.com. This is What Counts by TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC. In this podcast, we highlight proven solutions...

How to Create a Practical Records Retention Schedule - E041

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 24 Oct 2022 16:05:49 +0000

2022 Episode 41 – Creating a practical records retention schedule for your organization to implement should not be a complicated endeavor. More and more, organizations are encountering challenges to managing their records making it important to keep what is necessary and remove what is not. Some organizations choose to ignore the risks associated with storing unnecessary information too long, and some organizations take steps to mitigate future challenges. If you are ready to create a practical records retention schedule to document the legal, regulatory, and statutory timeframes related to storing your records, then this episode is for you. In this...

Practical Policy Implementation - E040

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Tue, 11 Oct 2022 16:28:39 +0000

2022 Episode 40 – Policy implementation is made easier when policies contain the “what needs to happen” and procedures contain the “how to make it happen”. Both work best when policy creation becomes a collaborative approach and the group that dictates the “what” works closely with the group or groups that help implement the “how”. In this episode, your hosts, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas, give policy implementation examples that they have seen work and not work. (Episode length 00:15:48) Learn more by visiting our website, or by sending TrailBlazer an email at info@TrailBlazer.us.com. This is What Counts by TrailBlazer...

How Has Policy Development Evolved? - E039

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Tue, 27 Sep 2022 13:51:00 +0000

2022 Episode 39 – Policy development has evolved over time. There are some do’s and don’ts in this episode that you should know. We look at how policies have evolved over time and how to best develop policies in today’s day and age for your organization as they relate to information governance. Your hosts, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas, describe the process of information governance policy development. (Episode length 00:22:23) Learn more by visiting our website, or by sending TrailBlazer an email at info@TrailBlazer.us.com. This is What Counts by TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC. In this podcast, we highlight proven solutions that...

The Importance of Asset Data Management - Part 2 - E038

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 12 Sep 2022 13:40:00 +0000

2022 Episode 38 – Tracking asset data is essential for making informed decisions. Does your company keep asset data in separate siloed systems? Are manual processes needed to link the appropriate asset information from system to system? In this episode, we look at asset data challenges related to varying asset identification and naming methods that are prevalent within most asset-heavy organizations. Your hosts, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas, describe the complex processes behind tracking large volumes of design, construction, maintenance, and operation data for physical assets. (Episode length 00:19:58) Learn more by visiting our website, or by sending TrailBlazer an...

The Importance of Asset Data Management - Part 1 - E037

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 29 Aug 2022 13:26:00 +0000

2022 Episode 37 – Do you have a document management problem or an asset data management problem? If your organization is not able to accurately trace the business case for capital investments backwards to its original purpose, funding, and design you may have an asset data management challenge. The age of an asset does make it harder to keep track of all the records, but it’s not an excuse for not maintaining traceable, verifiable, and complete asset data. Solving for a document management problem will not fix your asset data management challenge. In this episode, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas...

The Importance of Using Your Project Champion Network Correctly

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 15 Aug 2022 14:13:31 +0000

2022 Episode 36 – Your project champion network is one of the most vital components to successful implementation of an […]

The Importance of Using Your Project Champions Correctly - E036

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 15 Aug 2022 13:13:00 +0000

2022 Episode 36 – Your project champions are one of the most vital components to successful implementation of an information governance project. As noted in this episode, project champions are typically senior-level leaders in your organization. Therefore, use their time wisely and keep them involved in carrying a consistent company message back to their teams. Project champions understand information governance risks and will motivate their departments to mitigate those risks. Discover the main ways you can keep project champions engaged throughout your project in this episode. In this episode, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas describe proven ways of keeping your...

Three Key Steps to Achieving Organizational Change - E035

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 01 Aug 2022 15:10:22 +0000

2022 Episode 35 – This episode points out three key steps to achieving organizational change and using your champion network effectively. This is What Counts, by TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC, a podcast for the information and data governance do-it-yourselfers. Want to grab your audience’s attention without sending emails or doing more training? Give a listen to this episode to find out how. In this episode, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas describe three key steps for achieving a desired organizational change that they have seen work for other organizations. (Episode length 00:11:02) Learn more by visiting our website, or by sending TrailBlazer...

Donna V.: Steps to Take to Achieve Successful Training - E034

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 18 Jul 2022 16:34:32 +0000

2022 Episode 34 – Using training to implement change management seems logical. What type of training best fits your organization’s learning style? What kind of training is available; who is your audience; how do you gauge impact; is more better when training for change? These are all good questions that will be answered in this episode regarding achieving successful training to help improve your chances for successful information and data governance project implementation. In this episode, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas bring back our special guest, Donna Vitalie, to discuss how to use training for change management. Understanding what to...

Using Your Project Plan As A Communication Tool - E033

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Tue, 05 Jul 2022 14:22:29 +0000

2022 Episode 33 – This is our fourth episode in a series on using change management to help improve your chances for successful information governance project implementation. Today, we talk about using your project plan as a communication tool to connect with your stakeholders at every stage of a particular project. In this episode, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas discuss how your project plan should be used to incorporate and communicate change management activities through out project implementation. A project plan is a great way to show your clients all the work that needs to go into a particular project....

Creative Change Management - E032

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 20 Jun 2022 14:47:04 +0000

2022 Episode 32 – This is our third episode in a series on using change management to help move your information governance projects forward. We continue our conversation with Donna Vitalie to uncover creative ways to implement change management and understand the “why” and “how” to do change management. In this episode, Maura Dunn, Lee Karas, and special guest Donna Vitalie talk about using push and pull communications, champions, project plans, and quick reference guides to help change certain aspects of your organization. (Episode length 16:48) Learn more by visiting our website, or by sending TrailBlazer an email at info@TrailBlazer.us.com....

Change Management - A Tool In Your Toolbox - E031

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 06 Jun 2022 19:29:38 +0000

2022 Episode 31 – This is our second episode in a series on using change management to help move your information governance projects forward. Today, we welcome Donna Vitalie to the conversation to help give us an understanding of this important tool in your toolbox. In this episode, Maura Dunn, Lee Karas, and special guest Donna Vitalie define and discuss change management (CM), organizational development (Org Dev), management of change (MOC), digital transformation (DT), and process improvement when it comes to information governance projects. (Episode length 12:46) Learn more by visiting our website, or by sending TrailBlazer an email at...

Change Management - Linking Assessment Questions - E030

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 23 May 2022 14:11:36 +0000

2022 Episode 30 – This is the first episode in a series on change management approaches we have used to implement successful information governance projects. Remember back to Episode 3. That’s where we discuss our process for developing assessment questions and how to hone in on data management challenges. In this episode, we discuss linking what you learned during the assessment to refine your change management approach. Maura Dunn and Lee Karas discuss in this 13 minute 46 second episode making your information governance project a leadership effort and not just a technology implementation and the importance of listening when...

Monitoring Project Progress - E029

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 09 May 2022 15:32:31 +0000

2022 Episode 29 – Monitoring progress, showing immediate impact, and keeping stakeholders engaged is an important part of project status reporting. In this episode, we discuss a few ways for measuring and monitoring project progress, as well as, celebrating key victories along the way. Maura Dunn and Lee Karas discuss in this 16:51 episode a few important real-time progress reporting suggestions for keeping people updated and in the loop. Learn more by visiting our website, or by sending TrailBlazer an email at info@TrailBlazer.us.com. This is What Counts by TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC. In this podcast, we highlight proven solutions that we...

Knowledge Transfer Process - E028

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 25 Apr 2022 16:20:45 +0000

2022 Episode 28 – Hey, who was that person that worked on the customization of XYZ software? Who was the vendor that made the decision to fill in the requirements gaps during the implementation process? It is a substantial risk to any organization not to plan for the knowledge transfer process when taking on large-scale projects. Documentation is key to the knowledge transfer process, but what else can help an organization ensure important information gets passed on when the time is right. In this episode, you will learn what to do and what not to do for making the knowledge...

Risk Management - A Key Project Management Tool - E027

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 11 Apr 2022 16:43:18 +0000

2022 Episode 27 – Taking a risk management approach to project planning. Thinking through large-scale risks and assigning cost to those risks will help focus resource allocation in your project plan. Does this approach add more time to the planning process? Is it worth assessing all these risks upfront? Decide for yourself after listening to this episode where we share our experience developing project plans for client organizations. Maura Dunn and Lee Karas discuss in this 14 minute episode how they use risk management as a key project planning and project management tool. Learn more by visiting our website, or...

Key Resources To Have On Your IG Team - E026

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 28 Mar 2022 14:40:00 +0000

2022 Episode 26 – Internal and external key resources to have on your team to get your information governance (IG) projects completed. From IT to Legal, but more importantly, the business side of your organization. Maura Dunn and Lee Karas discuss how selecting the correct key resources to have on your team will dramatically increase buy-in and commitment for implementing your information governance projects. Learn more by visiting our website, or by sending TrailBlazer an email at info@TrailBlazer.us.com. This is What Counts by TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC. In this podcast, we highlight proven solutions that we have developed through our experience...

Building a Project Plan For Information Governance Projects - E025

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 14 Mar 2022 16:22:29 +0000

2022 Episode 25 – In this episode, we discuss developing a detailed project plan for implementing your information governance projects. From simple to complex projects, learn certain activities and tasks that you should build into your project plan that will help prepare stakeholders and better communicate project timing and milestones. Listen as Maura Dunn and Lee Karas discuss how to document the important activities, tasks, and milestones that depend upon each other and help build up your resources. Learn more by visiting our website, or by sending TrailBlazer an email at info@TrailBlazer.us.com. This is What Counts by TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC....

Business Case Development For Information Governance Initiatives - E024

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 28 Feb 2022 17:49:48 +0000

2022 Episode 24 – In this episode, we discuss business case development for moving your information governance initiatives forward through your internal process. We include areas where you can find hard and soft costs to use in your return on investment calculations. Listen as Maura Dunn and Lee Karas talk about building your information governance business case, including areas to perform efficiency calculations to determine cost savings. Learn more by visiting our website, or by sending TrailBlazer an email at info@TrailBlazer.us.com. TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC, is a small, woman-owned business that provides information and data management services to client organizations in...

Projects Resulting From Your Information Governance Roadmap - E023

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 14 Feb 2022 17:56:48 +0000

2022 Episode 23 – In this episode, we talk about our approach to information governance projects resulting from your information governance roadmap and taking into consideration high risk areas and high-level business strategy. Listen as Maura Dunn and Lee Karas talk about three to five year information governance projects and how to avoid the pitfalls of point solutions. Learn more by visiting our website, or by sending TrailBlazer an email at info@TrailBlazer.us.com. TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC, is a small, woman-owned business that provides information and data management services to client organizations in the public and private sectors. Our work with infrastructure,...

Restructuring Information Governance Initiatives Into Multi-Year Phases - E022

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 31 Jan 2022 21:41:25 +0000

2022 – In this episode, we break down information governance initiatives into phases to strategically span multiple years and show actionable progress along the way. Listen as Maura Dunn and Lee Karas talk about the importance of establishing the appropriate phases for your information governance initiatives so that activities get accomplished, resources are shared, and budget is not wasted. Learn more by visiting our website, or by sending TrailBlazer an email at info@TrailBlazer.us.com. TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC, is a small, woman-owned business that provides information and data management services to client organizations in the public and private sectors. Our work with...

Developing an Information Governance Roadmap - E021

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 17 Jan 2022 19:27:23 +0000

2022 – We work with organizations to develop an information governance roadmap to illustrate, at a high-level, how they can go from current state assessment to an improved information governance program end state. Listen as Maura Dunn and Lee Karas discuss how to develop a multi-year roadmap/plan that will help guide and track your information governance implementation progress. Learn more by visiting our website, or by sending TrailBlazer an email at info@TrailBlazer.us.com. TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC, is a small, woman-owned business that provides information and data management services to client organizations in the public and private sectors. Our work with infrastructure,...

Performing a Visioning Discussion - E020

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 03 Jan 2022 16:26:17 +0000

2022 – How to use a visioning discussion to determine your information governance program’s near, mid, and long-term goals. Listen as Maura Dunn and Lee Karas discuss the best way to setup, prepare, and lead a visioning discussion for your information governance program. Learn more by visiting our website, or by sending TrailBlazer an email at info@TrailBlazer.us.com. TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC, is a small, woman-owned business that provides information and data management services to client organizations in the public and private sectors. Our work with infrastructure, energy, renewables, and healthcare clients, both in the United States and globally, gives us practical...

Where do you file your records? - E019

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Tue, 21 Dec 2021 15:41:51 +0000

Business process redesign may be in store for organizations storing records in 3rd Party repositories, SharePoint sites, file shares, or e-mail. It may be best to initiate a business process redesign to drive employees to use the organization’s systems of record. Listen as Maura Dunn and Lee Karas talk about the most common records storage locations that organizations use and the risks associated with them. Learn more by visiting our website, or by sending TrailBlazer an email at info@TrailBlazer.us.com. TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC, is a small, woman-owned business that provides information and data management services to client organizations in the public...

Look Out For These Specific Workaround Risks - E018

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 06 Dec 2021 16:19:48 +0000

Workarounds and manual processes can lead to serious risk for your organization. Two specific risks are discussed in detail in today’s episode. Look out for these specific workaround risks in your organization and learn what to do to keep your organization compliant. Listen as Maura Dunn and Lee Karas talk about information governance risks that they have found working at different client organizations. Learn more by visiting our website, or by sending TrailBlazer an email at info@TrailBlazer.us.com. TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC, is a small, woman-owned business that provides information and data management services to client organizations in the public and private...

Enterprise Information Map (EIM) Part 3 of 3 - E016

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Fri, 12 Nov 2021 15:14:20 +0000

This is the final part of this three (3) part series that pertains to a valuable tool called an Enterprise Information Map (EIM). An Enterprise Information Map provides a comprehensive view of all of the information systems throughout your organization and how they interact. In this episode, we discuss how to use the EIM to dive deep into your organization’s systems to support strategic objectives. Listen as Maura Dunn, Lee Karas, and Jeff Pierantozzi discuss an EIM case study where we use the EIM to help build a roadmap for system modernization and system of record selection. Learn more by...

Enterprise Information Map (EIM) Part 2 of 3 - E015

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Wed, 10 Nov 2021 15:34:07 +0000

This is part two (2) of a three (3) part series that pertains to a valuable tool called an Enterprise Information Map (EIM). An Enterprise Information Map provides a comprehensive view of all of the information systems throughout your organization and how they interact. In this episode, we talk about the beginning steps for creating an EIM and building a basic system profile. Every information governance program could use an EIM to assist with staying compliant with data privacy and data retention regulations. Learn more by listening to Maura Dunn, Lee Karas, and Jeff Pierantozzi talk more about an EIM...

Enterprise Information Map (EIM) Part 1 of 3 - E014

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 08 Nov 2021 17:05:18 +0000

This three part series pertains to a valuable tool called an Enterprise Information Map (EIM). An Enterprise Information Map provides a comprehensive view of all of the information systems throughout your organization and how they interact. An EIM catalogues what systems your company uses, records how information is stored within those systems, and shows how information moves across your organization. A powerful tool for any information governance program that wants to stay compliant with data privacy and data retention regulations. Learn more by listening to Lee Karas and Jeff Pierantozzi talk about an EIM in this episode, or by sending...

Three Approaches for Prioritizing Information Governance Challenges - E013

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 25 Oct 2021 15:32:11 +0000

How do you decide which information governance challenge to tackle first within your organization? In today’s episode, you will learn three key approaches for prioritizing your organization’s information governance challenges that TrailBlazer uses to help sort out the complexity. Learn more by listening to this episode, or by sending TrailBlazer an email at info@TrailBlazer.us.com. TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC, is a small, woman-owned business that provides information and data management services to client organizations in the public and private sectors. Our work with infrastructure, energy, renewables, and healthcare clients, both in the United States and globally, gives us practical insight into making...

TrailBlazer's Framework Facilitates Information Governance Program Implementation - E012

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 11 Oct 2021 18:42:19 +0000

TrailBlazer’s framework facilitates regulatory compliance and addresses critical aspects of an information governance program. Our framework takes into consideration various components to ensure program implementation is comprehensive. The components of TrailBlazer’s framework consist of governance, policy, process, data|content, applications, and infrastructure. These are all the components necessary to make your information governance program complete. TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC Framework Learn more by listening to this episode, or by sending TrailBlazer an email at info@TrailBlazer.us.com. TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC, is a small, woman-owned business that provides information and data management services to client organizations in the public and private sectors. Our work with...

The Importance of Sponsors, Champions, Liaisons, Steering and Governance Committees for an Information Governance Program - E011

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 27 Sep 2021 15:11:08 +0000

In this episode, we discuss the importance of Sponsors, Champions, Liaisons, Steering and Governance Committees for driving an organization’s Information Governance Program forward. Change management is a large part of moving an organization towards regulatory records compliance. Do you have the correct components together to make an organizational change? Part of your business case for moving people towards regulatory compliance is to show them that they are doing this work now and it only needs support in order to have employees follow the same process. Learn more by listening to this episode, or by sending TrailBlazer an email at info@TrailBlazer.us.com....

Capitalizing on Recordkeeping Strengths Found In Your Organization - E010

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 13 Sep 2021 14:47:44 +0000

You may find recordkeeping strengths during your data and information management assessment that are worth capitalizing on to use within other departments of your organization. Capitalizing on recordkeeping strengths found within your organization can facilitate change management in other departments. Listen as the owners of TrailBlazer, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas, discuss what to do when you find strong examples recordkeeping practices within your organization during an assessment. Learn more by listening to this episode, or by sending TrailBlazer an email at info@TrailBlazer.us.com. TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC, is a small, woman-owned business that provides information and data management services to client...

Data and Information Governance Risks - E09

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 30 Aug 2021 15:13:25 +0000

Finding unexpected data and information governance risks. It is very possible that you may discover unexpected data and information governance risks and vulnerabilities that may cause your organization serious problems. In this episode of What Counts we discuss some examples of hidden risks that we discovered hiding behind the original goal of our assessment. You could be set out to discover and fix a document management challenge and discover that you have contract management issues. Or, maybe your current assessment goal is to review critical document sets your organization acquired through a recent merger and/or acquisition and find antiquated system...

Data and Information Management Workarounds and Shadow Repositories - E08

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 16 Aug 2021 20:15:02 +0000

Can workarounds and shadow repositories be putting your organization’s data and information at risk? Do your employees fill gaps in business processes when the systems they use are not convenient? Data and information management workarounds and shadow repositories are serious problems that companies must get a handle on or risk noncompliance. Listen as TrailBlazer’s owners, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas, explain more about what workarounds and shadow repositories are within this episode. Learn more by listening to this episode, or by sending TrailBlazer an email at info@TrailBlazer.us.com. TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC, is a small, woman-owned business that provides information and data...

Surprise! Data and Information Assessment Findings - E07

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 02 Aug 2021 15:41:39 +0000

You may have a surprise finding from your data and information assessment interviews that cause you to be non-compliant with company policies. If you ask why during a data and information management assessment interview be prepared to get a surprise. You may find out that individuals are avoiding the official records repository, creating workarounds to make their job easier, and developing shadow repositories that they didn’t know they were making. Listen as the owners of TrailBlazer, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas, discuss capturing the real findings from data and information assessment interviews. Learn more by listening to this episode, or...

Scheduling Strategies for Interviews - E06

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 19 Jul 2021 17:58:56 +0000

Scheduling strategies for data and information management assessment interviews. Easy process, right? Actually, it’s not as simple as one would think. Should you start with top leaderships positions, should you start with mid-level positions, or should you start in a particular department, for example Information Technology. Listen as the owners of TrailBlazer, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas, discuss scheduling strategies for setting up and conducting data and information management assessment interviews. Learn what their experience has shown to be the key ways to organize your interview list and make an interview as effective as possible. Learn more by listening to...

Interviewees: Data & Information Assessment - E05

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Tue, 06 Jul 2021 13:03:12 +0000

Selecting the right interviewees for your data and information recordkeeping assessment is a critical component to understanding the flow of information throughout the organization. This is not a simple process. Sometimes the interviewees are selected for you, sometimes it’s a different person for each process within a department, sometimes the list of people to interview grows and grows, and sometimes you get one person that tells you everything about how your organization does data and information recordkeeping in every department. Listen as TrailBlazer consultants, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas, tell you about their experience helping organizations select interviewees for a...

Data and Information Assessment Background Collection Process - E04

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 21 Jun 2021 17:46:10 +0000

If you are planning on performing a data and information management assessment within your organization, consider listening to the information discussed in this episode. Listen as Maura Dunn and Lee Karas discuss the data and information background collection process. The data and information background collection process is an important step in the assessment planning process. Information about your organization can be found in a number of different places. Review public facing information and collect internal organization charts, policies, data inventories, and other available information to give you a head start on your assessment. Learn more by listening to this episode,...

Developing Information and Data Management Assessment Questions - E03

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 07 Jun 2021 17:25:27 +0000

In this episode, consultants from TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC, Maura Dunn and Lee Karas talk about how to best structure your information and data assessment questions to get the appropriate results. Sometimes, it might just be best to have a conversation with the person you are interviewing about how they get things accomplished at their organization, because we want to know how do they do their job. Focus your information and data management questions to get to the root of the problem at your organization. Learn more by listening to this episode, or by sending TrailBlazer an email at info@TrailBlazer.us.com. TrailBlazer...

Developing Information and Data Management Assessment Goals and Scope - E02

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Mon, 07 Jun 2021 16:58:43 +0000

When it comes to analyzing your organization's information and data management environment, it is important to establish the appropriate goals and scope for an assessment.

Data and Information Management Challenges - E01

TrailBlazer Consulting, LLC — Thu, 03 Jun 2021 22:10:39 +0000

Is it a challenge to find something in your co-worker's office or on their computer?