In a typical workflow, does discovery come before file inventory?

In a typical workflow, file inventory precedes discovery because inventorying files involves cataloging and organizing all the documents and data that exist within the system before any review or analysis occurs. This step is crucial as it provides a comprehensive list of all files that may be relevant to the case. By performing file inventory first, the team can ensure that they have accounted for all necessary data sources, which aids in planning the discovery phase effectively.

Discovery then involves the process of identifying and collecting potentially relevant information from the inventories created. This step includes analyzing the contents, applying search terms, and determining the documents that will be reviewed further. The order of operations is significant; without a proper understanding of what files exist, it's impossible to conduct an efficient and thorough discovery process.

In various projects, although the specifics may change, the foundational sequence of inventorying data before embarking on discovery is a standard best practice that supports a more organized and systematic approach.