The essential element for archival success is to be found in the quality of management decisions made and public services provided. Archivists can develop first-class archives operations through understanding the organizational context; planning; hiring, retaining, and developing staff; meeting archival standards for storage and access; and creating a professional environment that is also welcoming to patrons. Once a strong base is created, raising funds is easier. Effective techniques include private fund-raising and networking with friends and family of donors, not taking "no" for an answer or feeling guilty for asking, grant writing, and promotion of archives and collections. (Contains 4 notes.)