Choosing the right eDiscovery provider is about more than just expertise in technology and data processing; it’s about finding a partner who can manage projects with a strategic vision. Effective eDiscovery hinges on project management and their people, processes, and technology working in unison. For both buyers and providers of eDiscovery services, understanding the depth of project management involvement can mean the difference between a transactional, task-based relationship and a true strategic partnership that enhances value, streamlines processes, and anticipates needs.
The Pitfalls of Task-Oriented Project Management
All too often, eDiscovery providers have project management teams that are there solely to execute specific tasks with limited awareness of the larger strategy or business context. This “task-oriented” or “data-oriented” approach focuses on individual requests, like processing files without a comprehensive view of the case at hand. While the expertise of handling certain data types is an important part of why you choose an eDiscovery provider, it’s not the only thing you should be concerned with. When looking only at the tasks that can be done, this method limits the potential for strategic insight and misses opportunities to provide consultative value.
The Value of Experienced Project Managers and a Consultative Approach
Experienced eDiscovery project managers, on the other hand, move beyond a checklist approach. They aim to understand not only the “what” but also the “why” behind case activity. By familiarizing themselves with the client’s data landscape, recurring patterns, and specific custodians, they can anticipate needs and avoid redundant work, such as reprocessing or recollecting data.
A well-rounded project management team doesn’t just complete tasks—they understand the context of the matter, the business goals driving the litigation, and the broader strategy. This approach enables them to advise case teams and offer insight into efficiencies, ultimately serving as an extension of the client’s legal department. They become a consultative partner, not just a service provider, offering actionable guidance across all stages of the eDiscovery Reference Model (EDRM).
In complex cases, such as HSR requests, class actions or multi-district litigation (MDL), experienced project managers bring nuanced insights that improve the overall workflow.
Selecting a provider with advanced project management capabilities ensures value at every stage. A skilled project management team stands out by delivering efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and precision, all while keeping the strategic objectives of their work in focus.
Building a Strategic Relationship with Your eDiscovery Provider
For clients, fostering a strategic, long-term partnership with an eDiscovery provider can amplify these benefits. When a provider has consistent, ongoing engagements with a client, they build valuable institutional knowledge that enhances service quality. A relationship based on isolated transactions, on the other hand, may limit the provider’s understanding of the client’s specific needs and, in turn, the value they can deliver.
Not every eDiscovery provider is equipped to offer true project management expertise. When choosing your provider, ask yourself if they’re meeting your expectations or if they’re capable of a more strategic, consultative role. A provider who prioritizes comprehensive project management can become a valuable partner, helping you navigate the complexities of litigation and making every phase of eDiscovery more efficient and effective.
About Sandline’s Approach to Project Management
At Sandline, project management isn’t just a function—it’s the foundation of our partnership with clients. We take ownership of every project’s success, acting as proactive advisors who don’t just respond to challenges but anticipate them, ensuring issues are flagged and addressed early. As trusted partners, we manage every stage of a matter with precision—from data collection, to processing, hosting, advanced analytics, custom solutions, and managed document review—offering tailored solutions that align with our clients’ goals.
Our team’s tenacity and problem-solving expertise set us apart, providing clients with clear recommendations and an optimal path forward. Backed by a roster of industry-leading senior talent, Sandline’s project managers bring unmatched experience and agility, ensuring that your eDiscovery needs are met with confidence and efficiency.
What truly distinguishes Sandline is our ability to stay ahead of the curve. Our project teams remain deeply attuned to market trends and emerging data types, leveraging this insight to design cutting-edge, proprietary solutions for today’s complex data challenges.
From designing and implementing advanced workflows to developing custom technology, our commitment to innovation ensures that we meet the evolving demands of modern eDiscovery with precision and creativity. When you partner with Sandline, you gain a trusted ally dedicated to navigating your most intricate matters with ingenuity and care.
