Investigation is the practice of “close research,” a process that’s used across a wide variety of fields and occupations. For example, an art historian may wish to investigate the origin of a painting through close research techniques. Criminal investigators, of course, are well known for their use of the investigative process in pursuing suspected crimes or violations of workplace standards.
The bedrock of a quality investigation is objectivity and fact. The most critical mistake investigators can make is allowing their own opinions or bias to leak into their reports. The moment you start using loaded language or making assumptions, your report loses credibility. Investigations require a fortress of facts, and your ability to present them in a logical, easy-to-follow format.
This is why developing an effective investigative process and a solid reporting structure are so important. A clear, concise, and objective process provides a formal record that supports organizational decisions, ensures accountability, and mitigates legal risks. In addition, a consistent report structure — executive summary, incident description, subject information, interviews, evidence collected, and findings with recommendations — allows investigators to consistently produce a document that meets professional standards.
Another key component of a good investigation is knowing how to handle the various types of evidence you’ll encounter. From a physical document to a string of encrypted emails, each requires a different approach. Additionally, understanding the legal nuances of digital evidence — from collection to analysis — is critical. This is a skill that McAfee Institute’s certification programs teach, so investigators can produce a report that stands up to legal scrutiny.