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How Advanced E-discovery Tools Can Help Simplify Information Gathering, Unify Disparate Information Systems, Standardize Workflows Across Departments, and Reduce Both Costs and Risk
The stakes in internal investigations can turn out to be very high. Companies can often respond effectively if they proactively plan for investigations and leverage technology that can comb through large amounts of data quickly at low cost.
No one welcomes the prospect of an internal investigation. Even a relatively narrow and focused investigation can feel like a distraction from day-to-day business. Broader investigations can become complicated exercises requiring investigators (and sometimes outside counsel) to work with multiple departments and stakeholders, struggle to manage disparate workflows, and sift through mountains of data to arrive at the truth.
While complaints to HR alleging discrimination or harassment based on race or gender are among the most common triggers of an internal investigation, other triggers run the gamut. They include whistle-blower complaints alleging compliance violations or corporate fraud, the loss or theft of physical assets, leaked or stolen data containing sensitive or personal information, and leaked or stolen intellectual property.
The stakes in these matters can turn out to be very high. A purely reactive approach to investigations can not only cause delays in determining the truth, but also increase the likelihood of runaway costs and damage to the company’s reputation.
To read the full article by David Carns, visit Law Journal Newsletters.
