The overall news from Ferguson, Missouri has sparked some thoughts about investigations; ones which are so basic they are often overlooked:
- Competent investigators, both in substance and perception, need to be in place as soon as possible.
- The scope of the investigation should be clarified. You are not investigating the universe.
- Any rush to judgment is not a serious investigation. The same people who scream about slowness will yell if the investigation is not thorough.
- Pressure groups should not influence the findings.
- You don't really know what an investigation will reveal until it is over. Remain humble and don't make overstatements.
- Coordination with experienced legal advisors is essential.
- No one who is responsible for conducting the investigation should reach any conclusions about guilt or innocence until the investigation is completed.
- Care should be taken to avoid the appearance of impropriety. Maintain a professional tone.
- Beware of fatigue. It can seriously lower quality.
- Consider how an army of second-guessers will view every step. Don't provide any basis for legitimate criticism.
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