On May 19, 2014, EDRM released the third version of their eDiscovery process diagram available here. The changes reflect increasing industry awareness regarding;
- the significance of proactive information governance (IG) to the eDiscovery process,
- the essential nature of ongoing institutional data management beyond an individual case lifecycle and,
- the constant battle between volume and relevance
As always, the EDRM provides guidance and the updated version acknowledges and memorializes evolving attitudes about how discovery fits into legal practice/client counseling and the broader concern about ever-increasing data. However, we should consider the use and purpose of the diagram. For eDiscovery practitioners, using the EDRM as a case roadmap is like using your grandfather’s Rand McNally globe for a road trip…it may start you in the right direction but, the devil is in the details and organizations will need to map out specific protocols and processes for their workflow and casework.
I have always found that the EDRM is most effective as an education and marketing tool and a template for conversations with colleagues or clients. eDiscovery professionals are well-served using the EDRM as a foundation for an internal discovery curriculum and in a firm or corporate environment, it can be leveraged for discussions with legal, administrative, business development and IT interests. The EDRM is also elucidating when tackling strategies regarding vendors, budgeting, billing, staffing and software/hardware purchasing. Finally, especially at the outset, the EDRM should form the basis of your case eDiscovery strategy and the EDRM should provide the context for communications with colleagues and clients as you proceed through your detailed eDiscovery plan.
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