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Unlike information archiving and content management systems, there are several applications and information management software solutions that don't have embedded search and indexing technology. Fortunately, you have the option of making information more accessible by deploying intelligent storage systems that embed search and indexing functionality. As data is sent to the storage device from any application, the attributes of the content are indexed, allowing authorized users to locate information retained within a specific device. These intelligent systems leverage enterprise search technology to facilitate information access regardless of the application that stores it.
As you seek to mitigate electronic discovery costs by deploying products with enterprise search features, you should also determine where some of these applications can be used to support other business departments challenged with understanding where information is and how it can be mined.
Electronic discovery provides initiative for search efforts
Many IT departments have deployed enterprise search within business applications such as electronic commerce and custom portal software. Yet most corporate information--information that may be a treasure trove of electronic evidence--sits idly within storage systems. As a result of the arguments surrounding tape restoration costs, storage-related electronic discovery expenses and other issues surrounding digital data evidence production, the FRCP were amended and put into effect December 2006.
The FRCP will keep electronic discovery processes at the forefront of the minds and budgets of general counsels for the foreseeable future. Some of the rules are directed at understanding corporate information quickly; an unenviable task for many IT departments, especially storage groups that already have plenty to deal with. If attorneys need this information, IT and storage folks can help with enterprise search solutions or products that embed this capability. The good news is that attorneys typically have budgets to reduce litigious risk, and enterprise search features are extensible to marketing, engineering and other departments.
Click here for challenges organizations face when producing electronic records as part of an electronic discovery (PDF).
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