The High Cost of Inefficient Document Review and How to Fix It

As reported by Exterro, inefficient document review is the most resource-intensive and error-prone phase of the eDiscovery process, often consuming up to 80% of eDiscovery budgets. With today’s proliferation of data sources, managing electronically stored information requires effective document review strategies.

A primary challenge in document review is the overwhelming volume of data. Legal teams are inundated with vast amounts of ESI from digital communication channels such as emails, collaboration tools, and social media platforms. This data overload complicates the identification of relevant information. As a result, review methods have become inefficient, leading to escalating costs and extended timelines. In addition, the pressure to meet stringent legal deadlines heightens the risk of errors, potentially compromising the defensibility of legal proceedings.

Legal ops professionals must implement accelerated document review strategies to enhance efficiency and maintain compliance. Streamlining workflows through the integration of advanced analytics and automation allows them to swiftly pinpoint pertinent documents, reducing the likelihood of human error. Moreover, fostering collaboration among legal teams, IT departments, and compliance professionals ensures alignment and improves case outcomes. Compliance risks are mitigated by establishing defensible strategies such as strict metadata preservation and centralized repositories. 

Neglecting to adopt effective document review strategies exposes organizations to significant pitfalls, including missed deadlines, inflated costs, and potential non-compliance with regulatory obligations. As data volumes continue to surge, transforming document review processes is imperative. Organizations that embrace advanced eDiscovery tools and practices not only meet current demands but also position themselves to tackle future challenges effectively.