Which step in the basic processing workflow is considered optional?

In the basic processing workflow, creating an inventory is considered an optional step. This means that while taking stock of the data you have can be beneficial for organizing and understanding the overall dataset, it is not strictly necessary for the process to move forward.

The other steps in the processing workflow play more critical roles. For instance, creating processing profiles or sets establishes the parameters for how data will be handled. Discovery involves assessing and analyzing the data within a legal context, guiding subsequent steps effectively. Publishing becomes essential when the processed data needs to be shared with stakeholders or presented in a specific format.

The optional nature of inventory highlights its use as a preliminary or supplementary task, which can aid in quality control or planning but does not impact the fulfillment of the primary processing goals. Thus, its omission does not prevent the workflow from proceeding.