From Emily Simi, Consultant
Providing clients with efficient and accurate outcomes in the fast-paced and complex world of eDiscovery requires certain skills and knowledge. However, to be a true specialist partner to eDiscovery clients in the litigation process requires another level of investment and engagement.
As well as a comprehensive and deep understanding of the tools, the litigation process and the desired outcome in each situation, I have found this can only be achieved in an environment that encourages curiosity, continuous learning and a desire for continuous improvement.
Since joining eDiscovery Collab I have been immersed in these key areas to ensure I can meet the very high standards the team sets in delivering exceptional results for our clients.
This extends beyond the technical skills and requires us to develop the soft skills that help make client service stand out as an attribute of our team.
The Litigation Process
Understanding the litigation process is essential for anyone working in eDiscovery, as it provides context for a matter’s legal requirements, deadlines and preferred outcomes. As an eDiscovery consultant, I am responsible for identifying, collecting and processing key data, work that can directly impact the outcome of litigation.
Knowing how the legal process unfolds—from initial pleadings, through discovery and to trial—helps to ensure that evidence is preserved and presented in the most efficient manner possible. This knowledge also allows me to anticipate the needs of the legal team ensuring effective collaboration aligning my technical expertise with the demands of each case.
At eDiscovery Collab, all consultants must have an in-depth understanding of all stages of the litigation process. To ensure consistency across the team, we have designed and developed a program that provides any consultant joining eDiscovery Collab with a comprehensive training on all stages and processes.
Since my onboarding earlier this year, I am regularly engaged in real-time training with a senior consultant and provided with access to an extensive video training library full of helpful guides. This has helped me to upgrade and further develop my skills and knowledge in litigation databases so I can:
- accurately and promptly provide critical insights to legal teams;
- know where to look for potential errors during document review or production;
- help meet deadlines; and
- avoid costly common mistakes.
This enhanced knowledge has significantly increased my value to clients as I am much more confident in collaborating with legal teams and supporting effective case management.
Client Service
Client service training is another area of investment and focus at eDiscovery Collab.
Providing us with tools and know-how to strengthen our communication skills, build trust and effectively collaborate with legal teams means when timelines are tight, data volumes are large and the stakes are high, I know how to ask effective questions to help understand our clients’ needs, actively listen and engage in developing solutions, manage expectations and provide clear guidance.
Strong client service is making sure our clients feel supported throughout the eDiscovery process. This involves navigating complex technical issues, explaining the implications of certain data, or adjusting strategies as a matter evolves. My client service training has empowered me to build long-term relationships with my clients and understand how to work most effectively with them, providing what they need and reassuring them that they are in safe hands.
Our goal is always successful outcomes for our clients.
Client Training Offering
To help our clients, the eDiscovery Collab team has designed, built and continues to improve an eDiscovery and Technology Training Program specifically for them.
It helps our clients understand the technology, learn as much or as little as they want to know about operating the platforms and to become technology wizards.
If you are interested in learning more about our external programs, contact us as we are now scheduling client trainings well into 2025.
If joining the eDiscovery Collab team is something that might interest you, I highly recommend them as an employer who is heavily invested in their team and their clients.
About Emily
A qualified lawyer, Emily joined the eDiscovery Collab team earlier this year – after three years of wooing her via our International Women’s Day lunches. Her background delivering innovative and technical solutions to lawyers in a large Australian law firm, Emily joins us with a broad knowledge of eDiscovery solutions.