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eDiscovery is an intricate process involving precision, clarity of thought, and a keen eye for detail. However, only very few can boast of these attributes as even seasoned litigators can lose track while attempting to perform successful eDiscovery. The difficulties faced by some litigators during the eDiscovery process can be attributed to possible neglect of tactics, strategy and procedures. Those involved in the eDiscovery process must understand the fact that anything built on a faulty foundation will not yield forth a solid edifice for the case. Hence, for successful eDiscovery, it is necessary to have a strong base, and that strong foundation is provided by the EDRM model.

Electronic Discovery Reference Model

The Electronic Discovery Reference Model, or simply EDRM, as the name implies is a reference model, created by George Socha and Tom Gelbmann in 2005. The idea to develop a reference model came to be when, as part of the Socha-Gelbmann Electronic Discovery survey, it was found that both vendors and consumers are groping in the dark due to lack of proper standards and guidelines in the eDiscovery field. Hence, the process for developing a framework for successfully conducting an eDiscovery process was started and subsequently completed in 2006. Later, two subset standards were developed, called EDRM Metrics and EDRM XML.

The EDRM model divides the entire eDiscovery process into six stages, which include:
1.      Information Management
2.      Identification
3.      Preservation/Collection
4.      Processing/Review/Analysis
5.      Production
6.      Presentation

Explaining the EDRM Model
Let’s explore the functions of all the necessary areas to grasp completely the true essence of the EDRM model.
Information Management
Information management is all about getting the eDiscovery process started. During this stage, risk factors and expenses are assessed, and an eDiscovery process that is risk-free and economical is put on track.
Identification
During this stage, the volume of electronically stored information that needs to be considered for eDiscovery is evaluated. Any claims and defenses, discovery demands, disclosure requirements and preservation demands are taken into consideration.
Preservation
During this stage a suitable system is put in place to ensure that the electronically stored information collected is not altered or destroyed, either intentionally or unintentionally.
Collection
During the collection stage, electronically stored information is gathered from various sources.
Processing
This is the process of culling down the volume of ESI by dismissing duplicate as well as irrelevant data. During this stage, the format of the data is also converted, if necessary, for carrying out effective review.
Review
The collected electronically stored information then goes through the stage of review and redaction.
Analysis
The electronically stored information is analyzed to uncover important summary information, such as vocabulary and jargon, important people and so on before it goes through a detailed review. This kind of analysis improves the productivity of the remaining discovery activities. The advantage of analyzing ESI is that new information may be uncovered that can in turn help the case positively.
Production
During this stage the electronically stored information is delivered to recipients in relevant forms using relevant delivery mechanisms.
Presentation
Finally, the electronically stored information is presented before audiences at depositions, trials, and hearings.

As the volume of electronically stored information is increasing at an alarming rate, the need to standardize the eDiscovery process has become even more essential. Hence, the EDRM model is definitely the right step in the right direction as it makes eDiscovery an effortless and relatively less complex process.