Network Storage Device Collector for Automated E-Discovery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electronic discovery methods are labor-intensive and rely heavily on employee participation, leading to potential omission of relevant data during litigation, as they require manual identification and collection of files from network storage devices, which can be time-consuming and prone to errors due to employee forgetfulness or intentional omission.
Innovation Solution
An automated system that uses a mapping tool to identify network storage areas, a collection tool to access and copy data, and a database server to manage and transmit the data to a collection server, reducing the need for employee input and ensuring comprehensive data collection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual identification and collection methods are used, then employee participation is required, but this leads to potential omission of relevant data due to forgetfulness or intentional omission
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service by having the network storage device automatically identify itself and provide metadata about stored files without requiring employee intervention. The device autonomously responds to discovery requests by generating file lists and facilitating data collection, eliminating the need for employees to manually identify their storage locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical process of employee identification and discovery manager collection is replaced by an automated electronic system. The network storage device automatically generates metadata, responds to discovery requests, and enables automated data collection, substituting human effort with automated electronic processes.
2Measurement precision
If manual collection processes are used, then discovery managers can identify files, but this is time-consuming and may overlook files due to network architecture complexity or aliases
Solution Approach 1:
The network storage device performs preliminary actions by automatically generating and maintaining metadata about files stored on it, including file names, types, sizes, and creation/modification dates. This preliminary organization of information is available before discovery requests are made, enabling rapid and accurate file identification without manual searching.
Solution Approach 2:
Metadata acts as an intermediary between the network storage device and the discovery process. The metadata provides a structured, searchable representation of stored files that facilitates automated identification and collection, serving as a mediator that eliminates the need for discovery managers to manually navigate complex network architectures.
3Productivity
If automated collection is implemented, then employee input is reduced, but the system complexity increases with mapping tools and collection tools
Solution Approach 1:
The network storage device performs multiple functions: it stores user files, generates metadata about those files, responds to discovery requests, and facilitates data collection. By consolidating these functions into a single multi-functional device, the system achieves high productivity without proportionally increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges the functions of file storage, metadata generation, discovery request handling, and data collection into an integrated architecture. The network storage device combines storage capabilities with automated discovery response capabilities, reducing overall system complexity compared to separate manual processes.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the invention relate to systems, methods, and computer program products for remotely collecting data stored by a user in one or more network storage areas residing on a network. For example, embodiments of the method involve utilizing a mapping tool to identify at least one network storage area associated with the user, utilizing a collection tool to access at least one network storage area via a network, copying the data stored on the at least one network storage area, and transmitting the data from the at least one network storage area to a collection server.