When people hear I provide independent advice on eDiscovery software options, inevitably I still get “So, what’s the best eDiscovery software?” But there’s no simple answer to that question.
It does make me laugh to still get this same question as I did 10+ years ago – sometimes from the same people too !
Like most technology, eDiscovery software is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Each product has its own unique features, and some are better suited for certain matters than others. Even with all of the advances in AI technology, we are still a long way of a magic button that handles all your discovery requirements – no matter what some salespeople may lead you to believe.
In saying that so much is changing and quickly ! We are only now starting to see some really exciting generative AI capabilities that are going to greatly transform eDiscovery, and some of the other tasks around litigation.
With the ever-increasing data volumes and the rising cost of managing that data, it’s crucial your software should help you reduce the time-consuming and costly aspects of discovery.
Don’t shape your practices solely around the capabilities of your software
Too often I see firms persist with existing software when its capabilities are limited. How they work is dictated by and considerably impacted by the limitations of their existing software. Their practices then get shaped around the capabilities of the eDiscovery software, instead of finding a solution that compliments and enhances how they want to work.
If you don’t like a product, or if it no longer works for you – move onto something better suited !
You do have many options.
The catalyst for change
So often people want to know what others are doing. Usually someone senior asks “so what are XX using?”, then inevitably “lets start by having a look at that”.
This can be the catalyst to look at other options.
Evaluate eDiscovery options every 12-24 months
To ensure you are equipping yourself with the most effective tools, you should evaluate your eDiscovery software options every 12-24 months. Like most technology, so much can change and quickly with eDiscovery software – Your requirements change; the options available change; and costs can go up or down.
With what is happening so fast with generative AI, this has never been so important.
In your evaluation process it is important to seek impartial advice to help you evaluate your best options – again not just from those selling the product !
Please do reach out if you would like help in exploring the options available and more importantly finding the right solution for you.