Receiving large amounts of GIS data can be complex, not only from a procedural standpoint but also from the staffing and training perspectives. An efficient data acceptance process promotes a stable application development environment and speeds database implementation. This paper describes the preparations an organization should undertake to ensure that the data acceptance phase of its GIS project is a success. These preparations include scheduling, acceptance criteria, client/vendor communication, problem tracking and resolution, database design configuration management, and system administration.