In this paper, the critical role of the archaeological excavation as a source of scientific knowledge is emphasised. The point of departure is the Neolithic on the island of Öland in the Baltic Sea. Examples from three recently performed small-scale excavations on the island are presented, in an attempt to illustrate that not only large-scale excavations in typical locations have a large scientific potential. In connection to this discussion, the concepts of deductive and inductive excavation strategies are presented. Furthermore, the importance of public outreach in connection to excavations is stressed, and it is argued that in order to reach a broader audience, we need to think outside the box and dare tread new paths in terms of communication media as well as in terms of the message we deliver. At one of the excavations exemplified, some effort was put into public outreach, and among other things participant public archaeology was conducted. This was very successful, and it is argued that most excavations situated close to settled areas have the potential of presenting to the public an exciting glimpse of archaeology as an important and valuable enterprise.