Embracing the Future of eDiscovery: ACEDS Publishes Inaugural AIML Report with Berkeley Research Group and Relativity

Hello eDiscovery enthusiasts!

We’ve been busy at the Association of Certified E-Discovery Specialists (ACEDS) trying to understand the quickly evolving landscape that impacts lawyers, paralegals, and other legal professionals. 

Last week, we focused on dynamic online data. This week we are excited to share the results of our inaugural Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AIML) Survey. In collaboration with Berkeley Research Group (BRG) and Relativity, we launched the survey at Relativity Fest in Fall 2022 to assess the current state of AIML in eDiscovery and document review.

We received an outstanding response, with 242 participants, including attorneys, consultants, litigation/practice support professionals, and paralegals, sharing their experiences and insights on AIML technology in the legal industry.

Here’s a brief overview of our key findings:

1. Education is essential: Many respondents identified the need for more education in AIML technologies. Attorneys and judiciary professionals require better understanding and training to make informed decisions and overcome adoption challenges.
2. Document review savings: 85% of respondents used AIML technology for document review, with 78% reporting cost savings. AIML technology was employed for responsive review, privilege review, or both, showcasing the technology’s versatility and efficiency.
3. Clawback of privilege documents: Nearly 80% of participants experienced clawbacks of privilege documents, indicating potential areas for improvement in using AIML technology during document review.
4. Purchasing preferences: The most popular method for purchasing AIML technology for document review was per gigabyte (GB) size, with 31% of respondents selecting this option.
5. The biggest challenge: The primary obstacle to adopting AIML technology is cost, with 45% of respondents ranking it as the most significant challenge.

To further explore these findings, we held two focus groups, one for law firms and one for corporate professionals. We were delighted to see an overwhelming consensus on the importance of conducting this survey regularly, and we plan on launching another survey this fall.

Our report offers a comprehensive look at the current landscape of AIML in eDiscovery and document review. It emphasizes the need for better education, more flexible ESI agreements, and increased involvement of litigation/practice support and paralegal professionals.

Ready to discover more? Download the complete Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Report and stay informed on the latest trends and challenges in AIML and eDiscovery.

We look forward to sharing more insights in the future and encourage you to participate in our upcoming survey. Together, we can shape the future of eDiscovery and embrace the potential of AIML technology in the legal industry.

Maribel Rivera

VP, Strategy and Client Engagement at ACEDS

As Vice President of Strategy and Client Engagement at ACEDS, Maribel is responsible for local chapter, membership, event management, and strategic partner engagement. A seasoned professional who has helped brands and businesses connect with their audiences and achieve their goals, her breadth of experience, strategic and creative abilities unlock innovation and bring business ideas to life. Prior to ACEDS, she consulted for a variety of private clients in technology, education, and recruiting, crafting and leading marketing and operations solutions for small and mid-sized companies. She also worked as director of sales operations for Fronteo USA Inc. An active member of Women in eDiscovery and ARMA Metro NYC, she also devotes time to charitable work. She speaks regularly on marketing and diversity and inclusion. When she isn’t working, Maribel enjoys traveling, reading, education and working out. Reach her at [email protected].

ACEDS

VP, Strategy and Client Engagement at ACEDS