[EDRM Editor’s Note: This article was first published here on December 2, 2024, and EDRM is grateful to Trusted Partner HaystackID for permission to republish.]
HaystackID Editor’s Note: As we celebrate the 10th annual E-Discovery Day on December 5, this article highlights the significance of a day dedicated to the progress and community of eDiscovery. From its roots in federal rule changes to its role as a hub for collaboration and innovation, E-Discovery Day has evolved into a vital event for the legal technology industry. Through the voices of industry leaders, we’re reminded of the milestones that have shaped eDiscovery and the people driving its success. Whether reflecting on the early challenges of managing electronically stored information or embracing the rapid advancements of artificial intelligence (AI), this day showcases the collective achievements of the eDiscovery community. We hope this piece inspires you to participate in the December 5 celebration, where learning, networking, and honoring this dynamic industry are at the forefront. Together, we can continue shaping the future of eDiscovery.
E-Discovery Day 2024: Celebrating the Power of Community and Progress
In just two days, on December 5, we’ll celebrate one of the standout events in the legal technology calendar: E-Discovery Day. Launched by Exterro in 2015, this industry-wide celebration spotlights the vital role eDiscovery plays in modern legal processes. Designed as an inclusive, vendor-neutral holiday, E-Discovery Day has become a cornerstone for reflecting on the field’s evolution, sharing knowledge, and celebrating the collaborative spirit that unites our tight-knit community. The origins of E-Discovery Day are deeply tied to pivotal moments in legal history. The timing aligns with federal rule changes that reshaped the scope of discovery and brought greater clarity to the treatment of electronically stored information (ESI).
Mary Mack, CEO of the Electronic Discovery Reference Model (EDRM), reflected on the timing in an interview with HaystackID: “It was no accident that E-Discovery Day coincides with the federal rule changes on December 1. In 2006, those rules established that ESI was discoverable but came with penalties many felt were overly harsh. By 2015, the revisions addressed these concerns, easing fears of losing cases over administrative missteps. This day is a chance to celebrate those milestones and our industry’s progress.”
EDRM’s Chief Strategy Officer, Kaylee Walstad, recalled the industry’s “golden times” when data processing costs reached $2,500 per gigabyte.
“It was a time when the industry was young, and eDiscovery professionals faced steep challenges,” she said in a recent interview. “Despite how much the landscape has changed, one thing has remained constant: the collaborative community that defines eDiscovery. It’s this spirit of togetherness that we celebrate each year.”
E-Discovery Day isn’t just about looking back—it’s a forward-thinking celebration of the community’s achievements and a reminder of the innovations that continue to shape the legal landscape.
Mike Hamilton, Vice President of Marketing at Exterro, said in a press release, “As we mark the 10th annual E-Discovery Day, it’s more important than ever to shine a light on the incredible work of eDiscovery practitioners who play a vital role in the legal process. This day not only celebrates their contributions but also serves as a crucial opportunity to educate the broader legal and IT communities about the ever-evolving landscape of e-discovery.”
eDiscovery 2.0: The Next Chapter
For Holley Robinson, Marketing Operations Manager at EDRM, joining the eDiscovery world was a natural step. Her father, HaystackID’s CMO Rob Robinson, has been a long-time advocate of legal technology, so Holley was inspired to explore a field where she could build on shared interests and contribute to an industry full of innovation and constant change.
“When I joined the eDiscovery field out of college, I was drawn to the incredible pace of change and the opportunities it offers,” Holley said. “It’s an exciting time to be part of an industry that’s not just adapting to new challenges but actively shaping its future.”
What to Expect on December 5
This year’s E-Discovery Day promises a mix of educational, networking, and celebratory activities for professionals across the legal and technology fields. Participants can join engaging webinars on cutting-edge topics, including the impact of AI in discovery, managing hyperlinked files, and tackling the challenges of mobile collections. The day also features in-person events in cities like Pittsburgh, Houston, and Portland, offering opportunities to connect with peers and industry leaders.
For those who enjoy a little fun alongside learning, there will be eDiscovery-themed games and contests, as well as the prestigious Gayle O’Connor Spirit Award, celebrating the enthusiasm and dedication of the community. Whether you’re attending virtually or in person, E-Discovery Day offers a chance to gain insights, make new connections, and celebrate the progress of this dynamic field. Learn more at https://e-discoveryday.com/.
Read the original article here.
About HaystackID®
HaystackID® specializes in solving complex data challenges related to legal, compliance, regulatory, and cyber events. Core offerings include Global Advisory, Data Discovery Intelligence, the HaystackID Core® Platform, and AI-enhanced Global Managed Review powered by ReviewRight®. Recognized globally by industry leaders like Chambers, Gartner, IDC, and Legaltech News, HaystackID prioritizes security, privacy, and integrity in its innovative solutions for leading companies and legal practices worldwide.
SOURCE: HaystackID
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