Top Ten Tips For Winning eDiscovery Data Maps

By Michael Swarz, eClaris, Inc.

Both applicable state law and the amended Federal Rules of Civil Procedure (FRCP) mandate each party to create a data map to gain an understanding of the other's electronically stored information. Having a viable data map is critical to the eDiscovery process and could very well be the difference between obtaining a favorable verdict or being hit with higher expenses, inadvertent spoliation and -- even worse -- losing the case altogether.

• Keep Your Data Map Current

Many businesses, especially the larger ones, have thousands and thousands of data repositories. Do not lose focus. Zoom in on the storage locations most likely to be subject to discovery and create your data map out from there. This approach will allow your business to minimize the risk of losing data that is critical to a discovery request.

• Collaborate With All Knowledgeable Individuals

Incorporating the knowledge of others when creating a data map will allow for greater customization. Working as a team will allow your organization to maximize the benefits to be seen from the data mapping process as soon as possible.