Editor’s Note: This article provides an in-depth look at Proteus Discovery Group’s recent acquisition of Novitas Data, focusing on the importance of cultural alignment and strategic growth in the eDiscovery industry. CEO Ray Biederman highlights how shared values between the two companies will play a key role in ensuring the long-term success of the acquisition. For professionals in cybersecurity, information governance, and eDiscovery, this merger reflects the growing need for integrated, values-driven service providers. The acquisition enhances Proteus’ offerings in digital forensics and scanning services, while expanding its national footprint. In a competitive market where data management demands are rising, this case underscores how culture and opportunity can go hand in hand to deliver greater value to clients.


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Industry News – Investment Beat

More Than a Deal: How Shared Values Shaped Proteus’ Acquisition of Novitas Data

ComplexDiscovery Staff

When companies merge, the cultural fit often determines long-term success. For Proteus Discovery Group’s CEO Ray Biederman, this truth shaped the decision to acquire Novitas Data, a move he describes as “one plus one equals five.” Beyond expanding geographic reach and enhancing technical capabilities, the acquisition was driven by shared values and a vision for delivering superior client service. “We wanted a partner who shared our core values—Novitas exceeded our expectations,” said Biederman, underlining how culture and ethics factored into the company’s strategic decision.

Building on Shared Values to Expand Service Offerings

For Biederman, Novitas Data’s alignment with Proteus’ culture wasn’t just a bonus—it was critical. “We’ve always prioritized integrity, transparency, and putting the client first, and that’s exactly what we saw in Novitas,” he emphasized. This cultural alignment allows both companies to not only integrate services smoothly but also to maintain the high standards their clients expect.

Filling Gaps in Service Offerings

The acquisition of Novitas Data was a natural next step in Proteus’ growth strategy. “We had been losing opportunities when it came to large-scale hosting that required Relativity Server,” Biederman explained. “Novitas hit all the marks: they weren’t in any of our existing markets, shared our core values, and offered the Relativity Server solution we needed. It was clear they were the right partner.”

The acquisition not only strengthens Proteus’ capabilities in eDiscovery but also allows the company to internalize services previously outsourced. One such service is digital forensics, a critical component of the eDiscovery process. By bringing in Novitas’ forensic expertise, Proteus can offer clients more streamlined and cost-effective services. “This acquisition allows us to offer forensics at more reasonable price points while maintaining a consistent process,” Biederman said, highlighting how this move enhances Proteus’ ability to meet client needs.

Addressing Market Demand for Digitization

Scanning services are another key area where the acquisition is expected to deliver immediate value, an offering that has seen renewed interest in recent years. Biederman noted that the demand for digitization, especially in government sectors, had surged during the COVID-19 pandemic as remote work increased. “People needed access to files that were still in paper format. Novitas’ scanning operation positions us well to meet this demand,” he said, referring to a growing market for paper-to-digital solutions.

Proteus has been working with various state governments, particularly in Indiana, on digitization projects. With Novitas now part of the team, the company is well-positioned to handle the increasing need for such services across the country. This strengthens Proteus’ ability to offer both traditional eDiscovery services and ancillary services that are becoming more crucial as organizations deal with ever-increasing volumes of data.

Expanding Footprint and Hours of Operation

One of the most tangible benefits of the acquisition is the expanded geographic reach it provides. Novitas Data’s established presence on the West Coast offers Proteus the ability to service clients across time zones, which is particularly valuable for East Coast clients who require extended hours of support. “Being able to offer West Coast support was the cherry on top,” Biederman said, emphasizing the advantage of having a truly national presence.

Proteus’ expansion into new markets, including Portland, Arizona, and Atlanta, comes at a critical time for the eDiscovery industry. With the global market expected to grow from $15.09 billion in 2023 to $22.65 billion by 2028, the ability to offer services across different regions and time zones is more important than ever.

Synergy and Strategic Integration

Biederman was quick to highlight the synergy between the two companies, stating that it wasn’t just a case of “one plus one equals two” but rather “one plus one equals five.” Novitas Data, founded in 1997, brings a wealth of experience in digital forensics, Relativity Server technology, and scanning services. These capabilities dovetail with Proteus’ existing offerings, enabling the combined entity to provide a more comprehensive range of solutions.

Proteus has no plans for significant leadership changes as a result of the acquisition. “We’re folding everyone into the Proteus side,” Biederman said. “We run on an entrepreneurial operating system, which allows us to integrate seamlessly. Novitas had people in roles we hadn’t filled yet, so it all fit together perfectly.”

The integration process will take about six months, with Proteus gradually transitioning Novitas’ clients and services under its brand. According to Biederman, the first phase of integration is already well underway. “Our communication plan, led by Amy McWilliams, will ensure a smooth transition over the next two quarters. We want both Novitas and Proteus clients to feel comfortable and confident throughout the process,” he said.

Meeting the Challenges of Modern eDiscovery

Proteus’ acquisition of Novitas is part of a broader industry trend toward consolidation and expansion. As eDiscovery grows increasingly complex, with more data and more sophisticated legal challenges, companies like Proteus are moving to integrate complementary services under one roof. The addition of Novitas’ expertise in forensics and Relativity Server technology is expected to significantly enhance Proteus’ ability to meet these challenges head-on.

Looking to the future, Biederman acknowledged the role of emerging technologies, including generative AI, in the eDiscovery space. While noting the potential of such tools, he stressed the importance of expertise and the human element in successfully deploying these technologies. “Generative AI is just another tool in the toolbox,” he said. “It’s crucial to understand when and how to use it effectively, and that requires knowledgeable people.”

As Proteus continues to grow, Biederman remains focused on maintaining the company’s core values and ensuring that clients receive the high-quality service they have come to expect. “The most exciting part of this acquisition is the potential to do even more for our clients,” he concluded.

Building on Cultural Foundations for Future Success

At the heart of Proteus’ acquisition of Novitas Data is a shared commitment to values like integrity, transparency, and putting the client first. This cultural alignment is what made the acquisition not just possible but advantageous for both companies and their clients. As Proteus looks ahead, the integration of Novitas’ expertise and culture will only deepen the company’s ability to deliver on its promises.

Ultimately, as Biederman emphasized, the success of this acquisition isn’t just about scaling services or expanding geographically—it’s about ensuring that Proteus remains true to its core values while providing the best possible service to its clients. If words and past performance are an indication of future direction and action, Proteus Discovery Group should thrive. It’s a reasonable question for all providers: How does your organization prioritize culture when making strategic decisions, and how do you ensure those values translate into client success?

News Sources

  • ComplexDiscovery OÜ Staff. (2024, September 16). Interview with Ray Biederman, CEO of Proteus Discovery Group. [Transcript].
  • ComplexDiscovery Staff. (2024, September 16). Proteus Discovery Group expands national presence with acquisition of Novitas Data [Press release].

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