How to choose an eDiscovery partner
Choosing the right eDiscovery partner is a critical decision – one that can shape the efficiency, accuracy, and ultimately the success of a legal matter. With providers ranging from global consultancies to specialist boutique firms, the question often arises: does the size of your eDiscovery provider really make a difference?
We need to declare upfront that we’re obviously biased. We know the global firms aren’t going anywhere, but when it comes to eDiscovery and digital forensics, we’re going to make a case for the agility, flexibility and capability offered by specialists, like Salient.
Expertise and specialisation
The value of an eDiscovery partner often hinges on the quality of its people – and that’s where Salient’s team shines. Senior specialists stay hands-on and are unencumbered by layers of management typical of larger organisations . This means faster decisions, clearer communication, and a more nuanced understanding of your matter with no separation between strategy and execution.
We also encourage close collaboration between our experienced professionals and highly qualified younger talent. Rather than being siloed, they work side-by-side across the life of a matter, combining deep institutional knowledge with fresh perspectives and technical agility. It’s a blend that encourages creative problem-solving and keeps the team sharp, adaptable, and fully engaged.
What’s more, all our team members often work across a wide range of case types and phases. Rather than specialising in just one slice of the eDiscovery lifecycle, they develop a holistic understanding by engaging with the full scope of work. This breadth of experience strengthens their ability to adapt quickly and deliver well-rounded, strategic input from day one.
Many also bring strong certifications and cross-sector experience (including in international and cross-border matters) further strengthening their ability to support diverse legal teams.
Technology and tools
Leading eDiscovery technology was once the domain of large firms with the infrastructure to host and manage it. But that’s changed. With cloud-native platforms like Reveal now the standard, advanced capabilities – such as AI-driven search, predictive coding and GenAI to power Early Case Assessment and intelligent document review, to name a few – are accessible to providers of all sizes.
This shift has levelled the playing field when it comes to tools. Now, the key differentiator is not the technology you have available, but how well you are able to leverage it.
At Salient we bring deep platform expertise and the agility to adapt it to each case. Without siloes or narrowly defined roles, team members gain broad and hands-on experience with the technology across a wide range of matters. This collaborative model builds deep familiarity and technical fluency with the tools, ensuring the platform is applied with both precision and creativity.
We can also offer greater flexibility in how that technology is delivered. Whether through on-demand access or, in some cases, subscription-based models, clients benefit from enterprise-grade capability on terms that align with their operational needs and budget cycles. This means the same powerful platforms, delivered with more adaptability, more support, and less red tape.
Scalability
It’s a common misconception that only the biggest providers can handle large or complex eDiscovery matters. But today, scalability isn’t about headcount – it’s about infrastructure, process, and adaptability.
Cloud-native platforms have transformed the way eDiscovery services are delivered. Whether the case involves millions of documents, multiple jurisdictions, or shifting timelines, at Salient we can scale resources quickly and efficiently. With the right tools in place and our experienced team behind them, we’re equipped to manage significant workloads without the lag or overhead that can accompany larger operations.
And just as importantly, we apply the same rigour and responsiveness to smaller matters. Where larger providers may be geared towards prioritising only the biggest cases, Salient are structured to give every engagement the attention it warrants, delivering consistent quality regardless of scope.
Pricing
Without the overheads of a large organisation, we can provide access to the same leading technology, and equally experienced teams, for far more affordable rates.
Salient offers more predictable pricing models that support accurate budgeting and reduce the risk of financial surprises. By offering subscription-based access to eDiscovery platforms, we add flexibility and control over how services are delivered and costed.
Customer support and training
Responsive support can make all the difference in a fast-moving matter. This is where Salient excels, offering direct access to the people actually working on your case – no ticketing systems, no handovers, no delays.
We find that our relationships tend to run deeper. You’re more likely to work with the same experts from start to finish, building trust and continuity that directly translates into better outcomes. That familiarity also supports more effective training, with tailored guidance that helps your in-house teams get the most out of the tools and services.
Whether you need a quick walkthrough or a more structured onboarding, we are well positioned to deliver the kind of one-on-one support that maintains the momentum.
Case management expertise
Effective case management isn’t just about keeping things organised – it’s about keeping things moving. Salient offers more consistent oversight, with experienced project managers and specialists working together to ensure deadlines are met, workflows stay efficient, and communication remains clear throughout.
That proximity also means decisions are made faster and escalations are rare. With fewer internal handoffs and direct access to the people handling your data, there’s less friction and more accountability.
Crucially, we are better positioned to offer guidance that goes beyond tool functionality. We’re able to show clients not just how the platform works, but how best to apply it to achieve their specific goals. Think of it as the difference between being shown how to use a saw, a drill, and a chisel, and being shown how to use them to build a sideboard.
Flexibility
In eDiscovery, no two matters are the same. The ability to tailor workflows, tools, and support to each case is essential .
Salient has the agility and flexibility to shape our service around your requirements, rather than asking you to fit into a rigid process. We can adapt workflows, toolsets, and communication approaches to suit your team and your matter, while still maintaining strong governance and consistency throughout.
That flexibility becomes particularly valuable when circumstances shift, or complexities arise. With fewer internal layers, we can respond quickly, think creatively, and work collaboratively to keep things moving in the right direction.
Security and compliance
Data security, privacy, and regulatory compliance are non-negotiable in eDiscovery. Whether you’re working with a large global provider or specialist eDiscovery partner, these standards must be met without exception.
We invest in the same high-grade infrastructure, processes, and certifications as our larger counterparts. We understand the stakes and operate with the same rigour – often with the added benefit of closer oversight and direct accountability.
In short, size makes no difference when it comes to keeping data safe and processes compliant. What matters is our commitment to doing things right.
The conclusion?
In summary, while larger firms may boast brand recognition, Salient brings something more valuable to the table: a blend of technical excellence, personal commitment, and true agility. Our approach ensures clients enjoy not only cutting-edge technology and expertise, but also bespoke service, genuine partnership, and solutions crafted around their unique challenges.
For legal teams who want more than just a provider, but a dedicated ally invested in their success, Salient stands out as the smarter choice.
