The Paradox of Equity: Analyzing the Equitable Facade of Private Equity

Aug 1, 2023

Content Assessment: The Paradox of Equity: Analyzing the Equitable Facade of Private Equity

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A short percentage-based assessment of the qualitative benefit of the recent article highlighting the investment approach of Private Equity and its impact on corporations and communities.

Editor’s Note: Private Equity (PE) is an investment approach that involves acquiring and managing privately-owned companies. Often regarded as a catalyst for growth and a platform for innovation, the PE industry presents itself as an equitable model for business. However, beneath this facade of equity lies a paradox that reveals a contrasting reality. This article carefully analyzes the hidden inequities within PE’s history, business model, and overall impact on corporations and communities. It further explores the consequences of the inequitable transference of wealth from purchased companies to PE firms and the leadership of the companies they acquire.

Industry Feature Article

The Paradox of Equity: Analyzing the Equitable Facade of Private Equity

ComplexDiscovery Staff

Prologue

Private Equity (PE) has become synonymous with lucrative investment opportunities and the promise of transformation for companies seeking to scale, innovate, or recover. Often regarded as a catalyst for growth and a platform for innovation, the PE industry presents itself as an equitable model for business. Its advocates laud its potential to infuse capital, expertise, and dynamism into companies, propelling them to new heights of success.

However, beneath this facade of equity lies a paradox that reveals a contrasting reality. The very term “equity” evokes fairness, balance, and justice, yet the practical operation of PE often unfolds in a manner that starkly contradicts these principles.

A History of Contradictions

PE’s history is rife with instances that challenge its portrayal as a force for equitable growth. The industry has evolved from the corporate raiders of the 1980s to the modern financial juggernauts, but questions about its ethics and impact persist. Does the pursuit of profit align with the broader good of employees, consumers, and communities?

Business Model: Growth or Exploitation?

The PE business model, founded on the acquisition, restructuring, and eventual sale of companies, often involves aggressive cost-cutting, leveraging, and strategic reshaping. While these activities can spur growth, they also lead to “forced” layoffs, asset stripping, and financial instability. Is this a pathway to sustainable development or a short-term strategy that prioritizes the interests of investors over stakeholders?

Impact on Corporations and Communities

The effects of PE extend beyond the boardroom to the lives of employees, customers, and entire communities. When cost-cutting leads to job losses, reduced benefits, or declining product quality, the human cost becomes evident. Can an industry predicated on financial return reconcile with social responsibility, high-quality employee and customer care, and equitable development?

The Transference of Wealth

One of the most poignant aspects of the PE paradox is the transference of wealth from the acquired companies to the PE firms and the leadership of the companies they buy. This shift can leave acquired companies burdened with debt while investors reap substantial rewards. What are the broader societal implications of this wealth transfer?

A Cause to Pause

The paradox of equity within PE is a complex and challenging issue that requires nuanced understanding. While the industry undoubtedly contributes to economic dynamism, the questions it raises about equity, fairness, and social responsibility are profound.

Exploring these paradoxes challenges us to look beyond the glossy narrative of growth and innovation, delving into the hidden dynamics that shape our economic landscape. As the world grapples with issues of inequality, sustainability, and corporate responsibility, the incongruity of equity in PE offers a critical lens through which to examine our collective values and choices.

The Business Model of PE: A Closer Look at the Equitable Appearance and Wealth Inequity

The business model of PE is intricate and often viewed as an equitable mechanism for promoting growth, innovation, and efficiency. However, a deeper examination reveals a pattern of wealth inequity that can jeopardize the long-term health of the companies involved.

Overview of the Traditional PE Business Model

PE firms operate on a distinct business model that revolves around acquiring, managing, and eventually selling businesses. Their primary goal is to maximize returns on investment. They target companies with growth potential or those that need restructuring or revitalization. By infusing capital and implementing strategic changes, PE firms aim to enhance the value of these companies before selling them for a profit.

Examination of the Equitable Appearance

On the surface, the PE model often appears equitable and beneficial. It promises to foster innovation, efficiency, and growth in the targeted companies. By providing financial support and management expertise, PE firms claim to unlock the untapped potential of struggling companies, turning them into successful, profitable entities.

This portrayal of fostering growth and championing innovation aligns with broader economic goals and can lead to a positive public perception of PE as a driver of progress.

Discussion on Wealth Inequity

Despite this appearance, a closer examination of the PE business model uncovers an unsettling pattern of wealth inequity. By leveraging complex financial mechanisms, PE firms can extract substantial profits at the expense of the long-term health of the company.

This extraction often includes loading acquired companies with significant debt, aggressive cost-cutting measures, and restructuring tactics that prioritize short-term profits over sustainable growth. This approach can lead to an uneven distribution of wealth, where PE firms and investors reap massive profits while the acquired company, its employees, and other stakeholders bear the risks and potential losses.

An Initial Assessment

The business model of PE, with its allure of equity, growth, and innovation, warrants critical scrutiny. While it can undoubtedly lead to success stories, the underlying dynamics of wealth inequity and potential harm to acquired companies cannot be ignored.

This complex interplay between appearance and reality in the PE business model prompts a deeper reflection on the values, goals, and ethics that govern contemporary business practices. It challenges us to ask whether the pursuit of short-term profits aligns with broader societal goals of sustainability, fairness, and long-term prosperity.

Historical Perspective on PE’s Inequity: Growth, Wealth Disparity, and Comparative Analysis

The historical perspective on PE reveals a rich and complex narrative that interweaves growth, global expansion, and the consistent theme of wealth disparity. It also sheds light on the trajectory of PE since its inception in the 1970s, drawing attention to key historical examples and conducting a comparative analysis to highlight the recurring pattern of short-term gains for PE firms versus long-term challenges for acquired companies. This exploration provides valuable insights for professionals in cybersecurity, information governance, and eDiscovery, emphasizing the broader impact of PE’s practices on businesses and the economy.

Timeline of PE’s Growth and Development

PE has come a long way since its inception in the 1970s. What started as a niche investment strategy has become a global phenomenon spanning various industries and markets. Several milestones mark the timeline of PE’s growth and development:

1970s: Emergence of PE as a distinct investment approach, focusing on leveraged buyouts and venture capital.
1980s: Rapid expansion and diversification across sectors, including technology, healthcare, and manufacturing.
1990s: Globalization of PE, with firms establishing a presence in emerging markets and international financial centers.
2000s to Present: Continued growth, innovation, and influence, with PE firms playing a significant role in shaping the corporate landscape.

Historical Examples of Wealth Disparity

Throughout its history, PE has been involved in deals that epitomize the dichotomy of wealth creation and disparity:

RJR Nabisco’s Buyout (1988): One of the largest leveraged buyouts in history, resulting in massive profits for PE firms but leaving the company saddled with debt.
Hospital Acquisitions: Multiple instances of PE firms acquiring healthcare providers, leading to cost-cutting measures that have sometimes negatively impacted patient care.
Retail Sector: Acquisitions of retail chains that led to aggressive financial engineering, ultimately resulting in bankruptcy for some well-known brands.

These examples reflect a recurring pattern where PE firms realize significant gains while acquired companies often face challenges ranging from financial burdens to operational disruptions.

Comparative Analysis

A comparative analysis of various deals reveals a consistent pattern that underscores the inherent inequity in PE’s approach:

Short-term Gains for PE Firms: Through financial leverage, cost reduction, and strategic restructuring, PE firms typically seek to maximize short-term profits. The gains realized by the PE firms are often substantial, reflecting the success of their investment strategies.
Long-term Challenges for Acquired Companies: In contrast, the acquired companies frequently face long-term challenges, including debt burden, workforce reductions, and diminished capacity for innovation and growth. These challenges can undermine the stability and sustainability of the companies, contrasting sharply with the success enjoyed by the PE firms.

Candid Consideration and Scrutiny

The historical perspective on PE’s inequity illuminates an intriguing narrative that intertwines growth, diversification, and a persistent theme of wealth disparity. The journey of PE from a specialized investment approach to a global force is marked by both triumphs and controversies.

As PE continues to shape the business landscape, its practices and impacts warrant careful consideration and scrutiny. This historical insight offers a critical lens through which to view the contemporary dynamics of PE, encouraging reflection on the balance between short-term profits and long-term sustainability and the broader ethical implications for business and society.

Impact on Corporations: PE’s Effect on Financial Structure, Leadership Enrichment, and Long-term Sustainability

The corporate world has increasingly felt the effects of PE’s (PE) involvement in business acquisitions and management. By observing real-life case studies, such as Hertz and Sears, we can see how PE’s leveraged buyout approach can lead to a ripple effect on corporate well-being, sustainability, and broader economic repercussions.

Effects on Financial Structure

PE’s leveraged buyout approach is well-known for altering the financial structure of acquired companies. This alteration often manifests in the form of high debt levels:

Debt Financing: PE firms typically finance their acquisitions through debt, using the acquired company’s assets as collateral.
Interest Burden: The interest payments on the debt can consume a significant portion of the company’s revenues, affecting profitability and financial stability.
Limited Flexibility: High debt levels constrain the company’s ability to invest in innovation, expansion, and other strategic initiatives, potentially stifling growth.

Leadership Enrichment

A distinctive feature of PE’s involvement is the enrichment of top executives through various financial incentives:

Performance Bonuses: Top executives often receive substantial bonuses tied to specific performance metrics.
Equity Participation: Senior leaders may be given equity stakes in the company, aligning their interests with those of the PE firm.
Widening Gap: These financial incentives can widen the gap between the leadership and other stakeholders, such as employees and shareholders, who may face challenges resulting from cost-cutting measures and restructuring.

Case Studies

The impact of PE’s approach on corporations can be seen in various real-life examples:

Hertz: Acquired by PE firms, Hertz faced financial struggles leading to bankruptcy. The company’s debt burden and subsequent challenges offer a cautionary tale of PE’s potential pitfalls.
Sears: Once a retail giant, Sears’ decline was exacerbated by PE’s financial engineering, resulting in bankruptcy and store closures.

These cases illustrate how PE’s focus on short-term gains can have lasting consequences for the overall well-being of corporations.

Long-term Implications

The financial alterations driven by PE’s approach often lead to broader long-term sustainability issues:

Workforce Impact: Cost-cutting measures may result in layoffs and reduced employee benefits, affecting morale and retention and impacting client relationships.
Shareholder Value: The emphasis on short-term profitability may undermine long-term shareholder value, leading to potential conflicts with other stakeholders.
Industry Repercussions: The ripple effect of PE’s influence can be felt across industries, contributing to economic volatility and uncertainty.

A Nuanced Phenomenon

The influence of PE on corporations is a complex and nuanced phenomenon that encompasses financial, leadership, and long-term considerations. The alteration of financial structures, enrichment of top executives, and potential long-term challenges offer a compelling view of PE’s paradoxical impact.

As the corporate world grapples with these dynamics, a critical understanding of PE’s role and potential ramifications remains essential for business leaders, policymakers, and professionals across various fields. The insights from this analysis can serve as a valuable guide to navigating the intricate interplay between PE and the broader corporate landscape.

Consequences on Communities: The Far-Reaching Impact of PE

PE’s involvement in business acquisition and management not only affects the corporate landscape but also leaves an indelible mark on local communities. This can be seen by the diverse and often devastating effects of PE’s practices on local communities and manifested by the consequences of company closures or downsizing, job losses, economic decline, and wealth concentration.

Effects on Local Communities

The closure or downsizing of companies after a PE acquisition often has a ripple effect on local communities:

Local Economy: The closure or downsizing directly impacts local suppliers, small businesses, and the overall local economy.
Community Fabric: Companies often play a central role in community life. Their decline can lead to a loss of identity and cohesion within the community.

Economic and Social Impacts

The broader economic and social challenges emanating from job losses and economic decline can be severe:

Unemployment: Layoffs lead to increased unemployment, affecting families and overall community well-being.
Social Services: A decline in local revenue can strain social services such as education, healthcare, access to food and public safety.
Social Disintegration: Economic distress can lead to broader social problems, including increased crime, mental health issues, and community disintegration.

Wealth Concentration

PE’s business model often results in the concentration of wealth within the hands of a few:

PE Firms and Executives: Profits from PE’s deals enrich the firms and top executives at the expense of employees and the broader community.
Income Inequality: The concentration of wealth exacerbates income inequality, leading to social tensions and potential unrest.
Reduced Investment in Community: Wealth concentration may reduce investment in community development, hindering long-term growth and prosperity.

Real-life Examples

The real-world consequences of PE’s impact on communities can be observed in specific cases:

Albertsons: The grocery chain Albertsons experienced significant changes after its acquisition by PE firms. Store closures, layoffs, and other restructuring efforts impacted local communities across the country.
Other Retail Chains: Similar patterns have been observed in other retail chains, where PE’s involvement led to store closures, job losses, and community disruptions.

Beyond the Boardroom

The involvement of PE in corporate acquisitions extends beyond the confines of boardrooms and financial statements. Its reach permeates local communities, affecting the lives of ordinary citizens, altering the economic landscape, and shifting the social fabric. The consequences of wealth concentration, economic decline, and community disintegration are stark reminders of the complex impact of PE’s practices.

Understanding these complexities is essential for business leaders, policymakers, regulators, and professionals in various fields. The lessons drawn from PE’s community impact should serve as a call to action to address the underlying inequities and to forge a path that balances profitability with social responsibility and community well-being. The urgency of this task is clear, and the stakes are high for communities across the nation and around the globe.

Critiques and Counterarguments: Unpacking the Debate on PE

The world of PE is filled with both fervent criticisms and staunch defenses, creating an intricate debate on its role in today’s economic landscape. By dissecting the contrasting views and offering insight into the criticisms often leveled against PE for fostering wealth disparity, job losses, and community decline, we can better understand the counterarguments presented by proponents of the industry.

Presentation of Criticisms

Critics of PE’s model argue that it can lead to various negative consequences:

Wealth Disparity: They assert that PE’s practices result in a disproportionate distribution of wealth, benefiting only a handful of executives and firms.
Job Losses: Many criticize PE for leading to downsizing and layoffs, resulting in widespread unemployment.
Community Decline: Critics also highlight the adverse effects on local communities stemming from company closures and economic downturns.

These criticisms paint a picture of an industry often perceived as prioritizing profits over people.

Counterarguments

On the other hand, proponents of PE defend the practice, emphasizing its positive contributions:

Economic Growth: Supporters argue that PE stimulates economic growth by investing in and revitalizing struggling companies.
Efficiency: They contend that PE brings efficiency and discipline to acquired companies, leading to long-term sustainability.
Entrepreneurial Innovation: Proponents also highlight PE’s role in fostering entrepreneurial spirit, innovation, and competitiveness.

These arguments present PE as an engine for progress and a catalyst for innovation in the business world.

Analysis of Debate

The ongoing debate between critics and proponents reflects the complex nature of PE:

Varied Outcomes: PE’s practices can lead to diverse outcomes, both positive and negative, depending on the specific deals, strategies, and contexts.
Case-by-Case Examination: A nuanced understanding requires examining PE’s impact on a case-by-case basis, acknowledging that results may vary across different industries and situations.
Call for Transparency: The debate also underscores the need for greater transparency and oversight in the industry to ensure a balanced approach that considers all stakeholders.

Considering Contrasting Realities

The debate on PE is not a straightforward good versus bad dichotomy. It embodies a tangled web of contrasting realities, arguments, and outcomes. As professionals navigate this complex terrain, they must recognize PE’s unique nature, considering its potential for growth and innovation and its capacity for inequity and disruption.

The insights from this critical examination of PE’s critiques and counterarguments may be helpful for decision-makers, regulators, investors, and practitioners as they forge responsible and equitable paths within the intricate world of PE. A forging that calls for a vigilant, informed, and balanced perspective that transcends simplistic judgments and engages with the layered complexities of an industry that continues to shape our global community’s economic and social fabric.

Conclusion: The Paradox of Equity in PE and a Balanced Way Forward

PE’s complex reality, marked by both opportunities and pitfalls, represents a layered landscape that affects various aspects of business and society. This article synthesizes the critical analysis of PE’s history, business model, impact on corporations and communities, and the ensuing debate that has created a contradiction in what seems an equitable facade. It also may help underline the urgency and relevance for professionals in cybersecurity, information governance, and eDiscovery as they seek to understand the pronounced implications of PE engagement in the legal tech industry and the eDiscovery ecosystem.

PE’s influence permeates the global economic landscape, affecting companies, individuals, and communities in penetrating ways. The exploration of PE’s paradox reveals an intricate tapestry of contradictions:

The Business Model of PE: While presenting itself as an equitable platform for growth, the business model can lead to wealth inequity, revealing a facade that masks underlying disparities.
Historical Perspective: PE’s growth since the 1970s highlights a track record of deals that have created both massive profits and burdensome debts.
Impact on Corporations: The effect on corporate financial structures, leadership enrichment, and long-term implications underscores a mixed legacy that poses challenges for sustainability.
Consequences on Communities: Beyond corporations, PE’s reach extends to local communities, resulting in job losses, economic decline, and exacerbation of income inequality.
Critiques and Counterarguments: The debate between critics and proponents encapsulates the polarizing nature of PE, requiring a nuanced and comprehensive understanding.

While the complexities of PE cannot be reduced to binary judgments, the insights gleaned from this examination point to an urgent need for transparency, accountability, and balanced engagement. This calls for a concerted effort from regulators, investors, executives, and practitioners to forge a path that aligns with equity and inclusivity principles.

Applying the Paradox of Equity to LegalTech and the eDiscovery Ecosystem

The principles and paradoxes of PE resonate within the specialized fields of LegalTech and the eDiscovery ecosystem, much as they do in the broader business landscape. Here’s how:

Investment and Innovation in LegalTech: PE’s role in fueling innovation and growth within LegalTech has enabled the development of transformative technologies. However, the paradox of equity emerges when investments prioritize short-term gains over long-term sustainability, potentially stifling innovation and growth.
Impact on eDiscovery: Investments in the eDiscovery ecosystem can lead to advancements in efficiency and effectiveness. Yet, the contrasting reality may surface when aggressive cost-cutting or restructuring compromises quality or customization.
Ethical Considerations and Focus on Outcomes: The ethical dilemmas associated with PE’s pursuit of profit align with broader concerns within LegalTech and eDiscovery. A warning must be heeded: the focus must remain on outcomes, not profits. The healthcare sector’s experience with PE, where patient care appears to have suffered under the profit motive, serves as a cautionary tale. In LegalTech, the stakes include justice, fairness, and adherence to legal standards. A profit-driven approach that neglects these fundamental principles could lead to similar challenges, undermining the integrity and effectiveness of legal technology solutions.
Wealth Transference and Community Impact: The transference of wealth within LegalTech may result in disparities in resource allocation, affecting legal practitioners, clients, and the broader justice system.
A Balanced Approach: A balanced approach to investment and development that aligns with the true essence of equity, fairness, and social responsibility is essential. This balance requires a nuanced understanding of business, technology, law, ethics, and social responsibility.

The application of PE’s paradox of equity to LegalTech and the eDiscovery ecosystem underscores the intertwined nature of these fields. The potential for growth, innovation, and transformation is significant, but realizing it demands a vigilant, informed, and balanced perspective. The warning to focus on outcomes rather than profits is a critical lesson drawn from the challenges faced by PE in the healthcare sector. As the LegalTech and eDiscovery industries continue to evolve, this lesson offers valuable insights into navigating the intricate balance between economic success and ethical integrity, ensuring that the pursuit of profit does not overshadow the fundamental principles that underpin the legal profession.

Postscript: The Importance of a Balanced Approach

In recognizing the paradox of equity within PE, it is vital to note that there can be scenarios where balanced approaches to PE engagement and corporate culture create a positive environment where all stakeholders, from investors to employees, benefit from PE investment. Such instances manifest when PE firms prioritize long-term growth over short-term profits, engage in responsible investment practices, and foster a culture that values trust, respect, and collaboration.

Unfortunately, these scenarios often appear to be more the exception rather than the rule. Transforming this exception into the norm requires a collective commitment to ethical practices, responsible stewardship, and a shared vision that transcends profit motives. The potential for PE to be a force for good exists, but realizing it demands a reimagining of principles, practices, and purpose, aligning them with the true essence of equity, fairness, and social responsibility.

References

Ballou, B. (2023) Private equity is gutting America – and getting away with it, The New York Times. Available at: https://www.nytimes.com/2023/04/28/opinion/private-equity.html (Accessed: 01 August 2023).

Morgenson, G. and Rosner, J. (2023) These are the plunderers: How private equity runs–and wrecks–America. Simon & Schuster, Incorporated.

Robinson, R. (2023) Toxicity and financial gain: The consequences of prioritizing revenue over culture, ComplexDiscovery. Available at: https://complexdiscovery.com/toxicity-and-financial-gain-the-consequences-of-prioritizing-revenue-over-culture/ (Accessed: 01 August 2023).

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eDiscovery Market Size and Trends: Aggregate, Software, and Services (Figures 1, 2, and 3) Aggregate Market Growth The eDiscovery market is set to experience steady growth from 2023 through 2028. The aggregate market size is anticipated to grow from $15.09 billion to $22.65 billion, with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 8.46%. This solid growth trajectory highlights the increasing significance of eDiscovery across various legal, corporate, and government activities, driven by the burgeoning volume of data and the escalating need for efficient data management and analysis. Software (SW) Segment Growth The software segment of the eDiscovery market is forecasted to grow at an even more impressive CAGR of 11.40%, reflecting the rapid technological advancements in the field. Starting at $5.28 billion in 2023, the market size for eDiscovery software is projected to reach $9.06 billion by 2028. This significant growth can be attributed to the rising demand for sophisticated eDiscovery platforms that offer enhanced analytics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning capabilities to streamline the review and analysis of large datasets. Services Segment Growth While the services segment grows at a slower rate than software, with a CAGR of 6.73%, it maintains a larger share of the overall market. The total market size for eDiscovery services is expected to increase from $9.81 billion in 2023 to $13.59 billion in 2028. The services segment includes consulting, managed services, and support, which remain in high demand as legal and regulatory complexities increase and organizations seek specialized expertise to navigate eDiscovery challenges. Percentage Share of Software and Services In terms of market composition, the share of eDiscovery software is projected to increase from 35% in 2023 to 40% in 2028, while services are expected to decrease from 65% to 60% of the market share. This shift underscores a market that is becoming more software-driven as end-users increasingly adopt technology solutions to automate and enhance various aspects of the eDiscovery process. The overall market expansion and the shift towards a greater reliance on software solutions reflect the evolving nature of eDiscovery. The market is responding to the need for greater efficiency and advanced analytical capabilities to handle the growing complexity and volume of data. These trends suggest a vibrant eDiscovery industry that is adapting to meet the changing demands of the digital age, with significant opportunities for both established players and new entrants in the software and services domains.

On and Off-Premise Software Market (Figure 4) The landscape of eDiscovery software solutions shows a clear trend towards off-premise or cloud-based offerings over traditional on-premise installations. This shift is reflected in the changing percentages of market share between the two types of software deployment. In 2023, on-premise software accounts for 32% of the market. However, this is expected to steadily decrease to 27% by 2028. In contrast, off-premise software is set to grow from holding 68% of the market in 2023 to a dominant 73% by 2028. This growth indicates a growing preference for cloud-based eDiscovery solutions, which may be attributed to their scalability, cost-effectiveness, and the increasing comfort level of organizations with cloud security. In terms of spending, the total market size for on-premise eDiscovery software is expected to rise from $1.69 billion in 2023 to $2.45 billion in 2028. Although this represents a growth in dollar value, it is modest compared to the surge in off-premise software spending, which is forecasted to jump from $3.59 billion in 2023 to $6.61 billion in 2028. The off-premise software's growth in spending by almost $3 billion over five years significantly outpaces that of on-premise solutions, further emphasizing the market's shift towards cloud-based services. The increase in off-premise software spending suggests that the eDiscovery industry is embracing the flexibility and accessibility that cloud solutions provide. This increase could be driven by the growing volumes of data managed in eDiscovery, the distributed nature of modern workforces requiring remote access, and the ongoing digital transformation trends across the legal sector. The trajectory for eDiscovery software is straightforward: off-premise, cloud-based solutions are on the rise, reshaping how legal professionals approach the discovery process. Service providers in this space will likely continue to innovate and invest in their off-premise offerings to meet their clients' rising demand and evolving expectations.

Cloud Software (Off-Premise) Market (Figure 5) The Cloud Software segment within the eDiscovery market, comprising software as a Service (SaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), is showing interesting trends in its composition and growth. Software as a Service (SaaS) is the leading contributor to the cloud software segment's revenue. However, its percentage of total off-premise spending is expected to slightly decline from 68% in 2023 to 65% by 2028. Despite this slight decrease in market share percentage, the total spending on SaaS is projected to increase significantly from $2.44 billion to $4.30 billion in the forecast period. This robust increase underscores the continued adoption and reliance on SaaS offerings within the eDiscovery realm, likely due to the convenience, scalability, and cost-efficiency they offer to law firms and corporate legal departments. Platform as a Service (PaaS) shows a gradual increase in its market share percentage, from 14% in 2023 to an anticipated 17% by 2028. In line with this, the spending on PaaS is forecasted to double, growing from $0.50 billion in 2023 to $1.12 billion in 2028. This growth trajectory suggests an increasing preference for platforms that offer developers the tools and components to build and manage custom applications, which are becoming more critical as eDiscovery processes become more data-intensive and complex. Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) maintains a steady 18% share of the cloud software market throughout the forecast period, with total spending expected to rise from $0.65 billion in 2023 to $1.19 billion in 2028. The consistent share and steady growth in spending on IaaS reflect the foundational role that infrastructure services play in supporting the entire eDiscovery process, from data storage to processing and analysis. The overall growth in cloud software spending indicates the broader trend towards cloud-based eDiscovery solutions. This move is fueled by the legal industry's growing comfort with cloud security, the need for scalable resources to handle fluctuating data volumes, and the desire for more cost-effective and flexible software deployment options. As cloud computing continues to mature and become more ubiquitous, we can expect eDiscovery professionals to increasingly leverage cloud-based services to manage the complexities of the discovery process more efficiently. The growth in PaaS and IaaS also points to a market that is becoming more sophisticated, as users not only consume software but also build and manage their applications and infrastructure in the cloud.

Geographical Market Size (Figure 6) The eDiscovery market is seeing a dynamic shift in its geographical composition. The United States, traditionally the largest market for eDiscovery services, is forecasted to decrease its relative market share gradually from 2023 to 2028. In 2023, the US market share stands at 70%, expected to reduce to 65% by 2028. This 5% shift over the five years suggests a maturation of the US market and possibly a saturation of eDiscovery service offerings. Conversely, the Rest of the World (ROW) market is anticipated to increase its share from 30% to 35% over the same period. This uptick reflects the globalizing nature of legal services and the expanding adoption of eDiscovery technologies and practices in international markets. Emerging markets, increased global data regulations, and international litigation activities may drive this growth. Despite the decreasing percentage of market share, the total market size in the US shows a robust upward trajectory, with the market expected to grow from $10.57 billion in 2023 to $14.72 billion in 2028. This growth translates to an approximate 39% increase over the forecasted period, indicating a healthy expansion in absolute terms. This growth suggests that while the US's share of the global market may be shrinking, the overall demand for eDiscovery within the US is growing significantly, likely driven by the increasing complexity of legal cases, the growth of data, and the adoption of new technologies such as AI and machine learning in the legal sector. The combined picture is one of a global eDiscovery market that is growing in size and becoming more distributed across international boundaries. This trend could signal an opportunity for eDiscovery service providers to expand their global footprint and for legal professionals to increase their cross-border competencies and capabilities.

Government and Non-Government Market Size (Figure 7) The eDiscovery market is bifurcated into government/regulatory and non-government segments, each demonstrating distinct trends in terms of market share and total spending. Government/Regulatory Segment The government/regulatory segment's proportion of the market is on a gradual decline, moving from 45% in 2023 to an anticipated 40% by 2028. Despite this relative decrease, absolute government/regulatory sector spending is projected to grow from $6.79 billion in 2023 to $9.06 billion in 2028. This uptrend indicates that while the government's proportionate market size is shrinking relative to the non-government sector, the actual investment in eDiscovery tools and services is increasing. This increase could be due to the rising volume of data involved in regulatory actions and litigations, increased emphasis on compliance and governance, and the modernization of government IT infrastructure. Non-Government Segment Conversely, the non-government segment's market share is expected to increase from 55% in 2023 to 60% by 2028. The spending in this segment is forecasted to see a more pronounced rise from $8.30 billion to $13.59 billion over the same period. This robust growth can be attributed to the large-scale adoption of eDiscovery solutions in the private sector, driven by corporate litigations, internal investigations, and compliance requirements. As businesses continue to digitize their operations and face complex legal challenges, their reliance on eDiscovery solutions intensifies. The diverging trends between the two segments highlight the dynamic nature of the eDiscovery market. While both sectors are growing in terms of absolute market size, the non-government sector is expanding more rapidly, likely due to the scalability and agility offered by eDiscovery solutions that are becoming increasingly critical in the face of fast-paced business environments and complex data landscapes. The steady growth within the government sector underscores the ongoing need for robust eDiscovery practices amidst an environment of heightened regulatory scrutiny. At the same time, the accelerated growth in the non-government sector suggests that enterprises are becoming the main drivers of innovation and revenue within the eDiscovery market. As the volume and variety of data sources continue to expand, the importance of eDiscovery tools and services is set to become even more pronounced across both segments.

Estimated Spending by eDiscovery Task (Figure 8) The eDiscovery market's spending patterns reveal telling insights when segmented by task—Review, Processing, and Collection. Each task is a critical component of the eDiscovery process, but their shares of total spending are shifting, reflecting evolving priorities and technological advancements in the field. Review The Review task commands the largest share of eDiscovery spending, although its percentage is forecasted to decrease from 65% in 2023 to 60% by 2028. In terms of dollar value, however, the spending on review is expected to see a significant rise from $9.81 billion to $13.59 billion. This indicates that while technology and efficiencies may be reducing the relative cost of review as part of the total eDiscovery spend, the absolute cost is growing due to the increasing volume and complexity of data needing review. This trend underscores the ongoing challenge of sifting through vast amounts of data to find relevant information and the importance of investing in sophisticated review tools and technologies. Processing Spending on processing maintains a consistent 20% of the total eDiscovery task spending across the forecast period. The total spending on processing is projected to increase from $3.02 billion in 2023 to $4.53 billion by 2028. This steady growth reflects the critical nature of processing in preparing data for review and analysis and suggests a stable demand for services that can handle increasingly complex data types and formats. Collection The Collection task is expected to grow its market share from 15% in 2023 to 20% by 2028. This is reflected in the total spending, which is projected to double from $2.26 billion to $4.53 billion. The increase in both percentage and spending points to the growing recognition of the importance of effective data collection practices, particularly as data sources become more diverse and dispersed. With the advent of new data types and the expansion of data creation points, the need for sophisticated collection tools and services that can navigate complex digital environments is becoming more pronounced. These shifting spending patterns reflect the evolving nature of the eDiscovery market. While the review continues to take up the majority of resources, there is a notable shift towards investing in the collection, which could be indicative of the market's response to the ever-expanding universe of data that organizations must manage. This also suggests that eDiscovery practitioners are investing more in the early stages of the eDiscovery process, recognizing that efficient collection can significantly streamline subsequent phases, such as review and processing.

Estimated Direct Delivery by Provider (Figure 9) The distribution of eDiscovery tasks by different providers indicates how the landscape of eDiscovery is managed across corporations, law firms, and service providers. The data reflects a shift in where the work is completed, with corporations and governments currently handling the majority of eDiscovery tasks directly. Delivery by Corporations and Governments Corporations and government entities are the most significant contributors to eDiscovery delivery, although their relative share is forecasted to decline from 74% in 2023 to 69% by 2028. Despite this decrease in percentage, the total spending by corporations and governments is expected to grow from $11.17 billion to $15.63 billion. This growth suggests an increasing volume of work being conducted in-house due to factors such as the rise in regulatory scrutiny, a greater emphasis on privacy, and the need for quicker access to data. Delivery by Law Firms Law firms consistently represent a smaller portion of eDiscovery delivery, with their share expected to increase slightly from 14% to 16% over the forecast period. The spending by law firms on eDiscovery tasks is anticipated to grow from $2.11 billion to $3.62 billion. This increase reflects the growing complexity of legal work, the specialization of law firms in managing intricate cases, and the expansion of legal services to include more comprehensive eDiscovery capabilities. Direct Delivery by Service Providers Service providers are projected to see a gradual increase in their market share from 12% to 15% by 2028, with total spending increasing from $1.81 billion to $3.40 billion. This trend indicates a growing reliance on specialized eDiscovery service providers, who offer expertise in managing and analyzing large datasets, as well as advanced technology solutions that may not be available in-house. Total Providers Delivery The total spending on delivery by all providers is expected to rise from $15.09 billion to $22.65 billion, reflecting the overall growth of the eDiscovery market. This substantial increase suggests that despite the relative shifts in delivery by different providers, the demand for eDiscovery services is on a solid upward trajectory. The trends in delivery indicate a nuanced eDiscovery ecosystem where in-house capabilities are being bolstered in corporations and governments, law firms are deepening their eDiscovery practices, and service providers are carving out a larger role due to their specialized offerings. This dynamic points to a future where the collaboration between various types of eDiscovery providers becomes increasingly important to handle the scale and complexity of discovery in the digital age.

Closing Summary: The Next Five Years in eDiscovery The eDiscovery market is on the cusp of significant transformation. The period from 2023 to 2028 is expected to witness substantial growth, driven by the increasing complexity of data management and the need for sophisticated analysis tools. This report has traversed the eDiscovery market landscape, highlighting the aggregate growth within software and services. It has shed light on the rising prominence of software solutions and the steady demand for specialized eDiscovery services. As we look towards the future, it is clear that the industry will continue to evolve, influenced by technological innovation and the growing demands of an increasingly digital legal environment. Stakeholders in the eDiscovery market should consider these insights to strategize for the years ahead, ensuring they are well-equipped to meet the challenges and opportunities that lie on the horizon. Potential Impact of Generative AI on the eDiscovery Market As we enter the age of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI), its potential to disrupt the eDiscovery market warrants a focused discussion. GenAI stands to revolutionize data analysis and management by introducing unprecedented efficiencies across various market segments. The integration of GenAI into eDiscovery tools and services can dramatically streamline processes, reduce manual labor, and expedite the delivery of results. Impact on Aggregate Market The adoption of GenAI across the eDiscovery market is expected to enhance the aggregate market's productivity. By automating complex tasks such as document classification, pattern recognition, and predictive coding, GenAI can significantly reduce the time and resources required for data processing. This efficiency can lead to cost reductions and faster turnaround times, potentially increasing the volume of eDiscovery work that can be handled within the same time frames and budgets. Impact on Software (SW) Segment Within the software segment, GenAI is poised to offer sophisticated analytical capabilities that could greatly refine the process of sifting through large data sets. GenAI-powered software can learn from data to improve its performance over time, leading to increasingly accurate identification of relevant documents. This could shift the software segment's CAGR upward as firms and organizations increasingly seek out these advanced capabilities to gain a competitive edge. Impact on Services Segment For the services segment, GenAI can act as a force multiplier. Service providers equipped with GenAI technologies can offer enhanced services, such as predictive analytics and intelligent case assessments, which could result in the segment capturing a larger market share than currently projected. By reducing the human effort required for repetitive tasks, GenAI allows legal professionals to focus on more strategic activities, thereby increasing the value and appeal of eDiscovery services. The integration of GenAI into the eDiscovery market is not a matter of if but when. Its impact is anticipated to be transformative across all segments, driving efficiencies and creating opportunities for innovation. As we look to the future, market players should consider GenAI as a critical element in their strategic planning, preparing for a landscape where speed, accuracy, and efficiency are greatly enhanced by these advanced technologies. Those who embrace GenAI early may find themselves at the forefront of a new era in eDiscovery, leading the charge toward a more efficient and effective digital legal process.

Lagniappe: Narrative on the Growth of the eDiscovery Software and Services Market 2012-2028 (Figure 10) From 2012 to 2028, the eDiscovery market, encompassing both software and services, exhibited significant growth. This period marks a transformative era, reflecting the increasing reliance on digital data in legal and regulatory frameworks. Software Segment Growth The software segment of the eDiscovery market has shown a remarkable Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of approximately 12.28%. Starting from a spend of $1.42 billion in 2012, it has steadily risen to a projected $9.06 billion by 2028. This substantial growth underscores the evolving technological landscape in eDiscovery, with software solutions becoming increasingly sophisticated. The integration of advanced analytics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning has driven this segment, reflecting a shift towards more efficient, automated, and accurate data processing and analysis. Services Segment Growth The services segment, while growing at a slightly slower pace, has still demonstrated a significant CAGR of approximately 9.23%. From a spend of $3.31 billion in 2012, it is expected to reach $13.59 billion by 2028. This growth can be attributed to the expanding complexity of legal cases, the proliferation of data sources, and the increasing need for specialized expertise in data management and analysis. The services sector has continued to play a crucial role, providing the necessary support, consultation, and managed services integral to the eDiscovery process. Total Market Growth and CAGR Over the span from 2012 to 2028, the total market spend in eDiscovery has reached approximately $211.67 billion, with a combined CAGR of around 10.28%. This reflects the overall expansion of the eDiscovery market, driven by both technological advancements and the growing demand for comprehensive legal and regulatory data management. The Future Through the Lens of the Past The evolution of the eDiscovery market from 2012 to 2028 paints a picture of an industry adapting to and growing with the increasing digitalization of information. The substantial growth in both software and services segments highlights the escalating importance and complexity of eDiscovery in the modern age. With the market continuing to expand, stakeholders in the legal, corporate, and government sectors must stay abreast of these trends, leveraging the advancements in technology and services to meet their evolving needs.

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The mashup charts (Figures 1-10) represent one interpretation of aggregated and modeled available information that focuses on eDiscovery market trends, size, growth, and segmentation. Figure 1 - eDiscovery Software and Services Market [pdf-embedder url="https://complexdiscovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/eDiscovery-Software-and-Services-Market-2023-2028-Updated.pdf" title="eDiscovery Software and Services Market (2023-2028) – Updated"]

Figure 2 - eDiscovery Software Market [pdf-embedder url="https://complexdiscovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/eDiscovery-Software-Market-All-2023-2028.pdf" title="eDiscovery Software Market – All (2023-2028)"]

Figure 3 - eDiscovery Services Market [pdf-embedder url="https://complexdiscovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/eDiscovery-Services-Market-2023-2028.pdf" title="eDiscovery Services Market (2023-2028)"]

Figure 4 - eDiscovery Software by Off-Premise and On-Premise Market [pdf-embedder url="https://complexdiscovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/eDiscovery-Software-Market-2023-2028.pdf" title="eDiscovery Software Market (2023-2028)"]

Figure 5 - Cloud Software for Off-Premise Market [pdf-embedder url="https://complexdiscovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/eDiscovery-Cloud-Software-Market-2023-2028.pdf" title="eDiscovery Cloud Software Market (2023-2028)"]

Figure 6 - eDiscovery Market Overview by Geography [pdf-embedder url="https://complexdiscovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/eDiscovery-Market-Geographical-Overview-2023-2028.pdf" title="eDiscovery Market Geographical Overview (2023-2028)"]

Figure 7 - eDiscovery Market Overview by Government/Non-Government Markets [pdf-embedder url="https://complexdiscovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/eDiscovery-Government-and-Non-Government-Market-Overview-2023-2028.pdf" title="eDiscovery Government and Non-Government Market Overview (2023-2028)"]

Figure 8 - eDiscovery Market Overview by Task [pdf-embedder url="https://complexdiscovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/eDiscovery-Market-By-Task-2023-2028.pdf" title="eDiscovery Market By Task (2023-2028)"]

Figure 9 - Estimated Direct Delivery by Provider [pdf-embedder url="https://complexdiscovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/eDiscovery-Market-By-Direct-Delivery-Approach-2023-2028.pdf" title="eDiscovery Market By Direct Delivery Approach (2023-2028)"]

Figure 10 - [Lagniappe] eDiscovery Market Sizing: Past and Projected [pdf-embedder url="https://complexdiscovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/eDiscovery-Market-Sizing-Past-and-Projected-2024.pdf" title="eDiscovery Market Sizing – Past and Projected – 2024"]

*Market Size Sources Sources for eDiscovery market sizing estimations and recent adjustments have been aggregated since the initial eDiscovery Market Size Mashup published in 2012 and are included in a model that is used to develop annual eDiscovery market size mashups. These sources include but are not limited to publicly available content (including abstracts, excerpts, quotes, references, and data points) from the following sources.

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Industry Observer Estimations (Multiple Observers)

Additional Reading

**What is a Mashup? A mashup is a combination or mixing of content from different sources to create a new way of looking at data. The main characteristic of a mashup includes combinations, visualizations, and aggregation. Mashups can help make existing data more useful, moreover for personal and professional use. (Wikipedia)

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[post_title] => The Next Five Years in eDiscovery: Market Size Forecast for 2023-2028 [post_excerpt] => In an era where digital data proliferates at an unprecedented rate, the eDiscovery market has become a critical component in the legal, corporate, and government sectors. This comprehensive report delves into the eDiscovery market, providing a detailed analysis of its size and growth from 2023 to 2028. It examines the market in aggregate and segmented into software and services, providing insights into the Compound Annual Growth Rates (CAGR) and shifts in market shares. The narratives presented herein reflect the current state of the market and project the trends expected to shape the future of eDiscovery. As organizations navigate through vast quantities of data for legal and regulatory purposes, understanding these trends is paramount for strategic decision-making and maintaining a competitive edge. [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => the-next-five-years-in-ediscovery-market-size-forecast-for-2023-2028 [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2024-01-31 06:40:09 [post_modified_gmt] => 2024-01-31 12:40:09 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://complexdiscovery.com/?p=53083 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw [show_in_menu] => 1 [link_link] => 1 [no_follow_link] => 0 [alt_link_text] => [custom_link_class] => [redirect_url] => [target_blank] => 0 [alt_title_attribute] => ) ) [post_count] => 1 [current_post] => -1 [before_loop] => 1 [in_the_loop] => [post] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 53083 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2023-11-26 08:52:01 [post_date_gmt] => 2023-11-26 14:52:01 [post_content] =>

[taq_review]

Industry Research

The Next Five Years in eDiscovery: Market Size Forecast for 2023-2028

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Industry Observer Estimations (Multiple Observers)

Additional Reading

Purchase Access to the Complete Presentation of Charts: Market Kinetics – eDiscovery Market Size Mashup 2023-28 (PDF)

Source: ComplexDiscovery

The Next Five Years in eDiscovery: Market Size Forecast for 2023-2028

Editor’s Note: The Winter 2024 eDiscovery Pricing Survey by ComplexDiscovery OÜ, now in its eleventh edition, continues to provide an invaluable resource for understanding the pricing dynamics within the eDiscovery ecosystem. This non-scientific survey, initiated in the winter of 2019, has evolved to become a benchmark tool for professionals in the fields of cybersecurity, information governance, and legal discovery. The survey's methodology, emphasizing a significant response rate with minimal outreach, ensures that the findings are both comprehensive and relevant to current market conditions.

One of the survey's strengths lies in its accumulated respondent base of 837 individuals, offering a robust and diverse perspective on pricing trends. Its focus spans across key eDiscovery tasks, such as collection, processing, and review, providing detailed insights into each segment's cost structure. The survey's approach, combining direct questions with options for alternative pricing models, reflects the evolving nature of the eDiscovery landscape, acknowledging the increasing complexity and specialization of services.

The results of the Winter 2024 survey with 76 respondents are particularly telling, highlighting a shift towards more flexible and technology-adaptive pricing models. This shift is indicative of the industry's response to emerging challenges and opportunities, such as the growing volume of digital data and the advancement of technologies like predictive coding in document review.

It's important to note that while the survey offers a comprehensive overview of pricing trends, its non-scientific nature means it should be used as a guide rather than a definitive pricing standard. The survey results provide valuable insights for eDiscovery professionals, assisting them in making informed decisions and strategically navigating the complex pricing landscape of eDiscovery services.

Industry Research

Shaping eDiscovery Strategies: Winter 2024 Pricing Report*

ComplexDiscovery Staff

The Winter 2024 eDiscovery Pricing Survey, executed by ComplexDiscovery OÜ and drawing on the perspectives of 76 industry professionals, offers a thorough and focused analysis of the prevailing pricing trends within the eDiscovery ecosystem. This survey, part of an ongoing series since 2019, has successfully built a comprehensive data set with contributions from 837 individual responses across eleven surveys. It meticulously explores the pricing intricacies associated with key eDiscovery tasks, including collection, processing, and review. Each task segment reveals its own unique trends and challenges, reflecting the diverse and complex nature of eDiscovery work.

The following sections from the Winter 2024 survey delve into these specific areas, shedding light on the intricate pricing mechanisms that underpin the eDiscovery process in its entirety, offering critical insights that may greatly benefit professionals engaged in cybersecurity, information governance, and legal discovery.

Detailed Collection Pricing Analysis (Figures 1-3)

Collection, a fundamental phase in eDiscovery, involves diverse tasks performed by forensic examiners. The survey provides an intricate look into the costs associated with these services.

Onsite Collection: The majority of respondents (68.4%) indicate the per hour cost for onsite collection by a forensic examiner falls between $250 and $350. This cost bracket reflects the need for specialized skills, equipment, and often, the urgency associated with onsite data collection.
Remote Collection: In contrast, remote collection, which has gained traction due to technological advancements and increased efficiency, shows a slight reduction in costs. About 63.2% of professionals cite costs between $250 and $350 per hour, while 15.8% report less than $250, illustrating the cost benefits of remote operations.
Device-Specific Collections: Desktop and laptop collections, as well as mobile device collections, are noted for their higher costs. A significant 51.3% quote more than $350 per device for desktop/laptop collections, while mobile device collection costs are similarly high, with 50.0% quoting above $350 per device. These figures highlight the technical complexities and expertise required in handling varied data sources.
Investigative Services and Expert Testimony: Investigative services, including analysis and report generation, command a high value, with 53.9% charging between $350 and $550 per hour. The cost for expert witness testimony is even higher, with 26.3% exceeding $550 per hour, reflecting the premium placed on specialized legal expertise and credibility in judicial proceedings.

Comprehensive Processing Pricing Analysis (Figures 4-9)

Processing ESI is a critical step in eDiscovery, involving the organization and preparation of data for review. The survey's findings in this segment shed light on the cost dynamics based on data volumes and processing stages.

Cost Efficiency in Large Volume Processing: Notably, for volumes over 251 GB, processing costs at ingestion stage are less, with 32.9% of the responses indicating less than $25 per GB. This trend towards lower costs for larger volumes persists at the completion of processing, where 46.1% charge less than $100 per GB. These figures underscore the economies of scale in eDiscovery, where handling larger data sets becomes relatively cost-effective.
Alternative Pricing Models: The survey also highlights a shift towards alternative pricing models in processing, with 19.7% of respondents favoring these for both ingestion and completion stages. This trend reflects a growing inclination towards pricing strategies that are tailored to the specific needs of each project, taking into account factors like data complexity and processing requirements.

Project management plays a pivotal role in the successful execution of eDiscovery projects, and its pricing is a key component of the overall cost structure.

Basic Project Management: The survey reveals that the majority (56.6%) of respondents charge between $100 and $200 per hour for basic project management support. This cost bracket suggests that even fundamental project management tasks in eDiscovery require a significant investment, underscoring the importance of efficient coordination and oversight in these projects.
Advanced Project Management: For more complex and demanding project management tasks, the costs escalate. The survey shows that a substantial proportion (64.5%) of professionals charge over $200 per hour for advanced project management support. This higher cost reflects the specialized skills and in-depth involvement required to manage intricate aspects of eDiscovery projects, such as handling complex data types, navigating legal intricacies, or coordinating extensive teams.

In-Depth Review Pricing Analysis (Figures 10-12)

Document review, a labor-intensive and critical phase in eDiscovery, has its own unique pricing trends, as revealed by the survey.

Predictive Coding in TAR: The use of predictive coding in technology-assisted review (TAR) is seeing a shift in pricing models. A substantial 39.5% for datasets under 250 GB and 40.8% for larger datasets suggest alternative pricing models, moving away from the traditional per GB pricing. This indicates an adaptation to the evolving technological landscape in document review, recognizing the specialized nature and varying complexities of predictive coding.
Cost Variations in Document Review: The survey reveals notable differences in the costs for onsite and remote document reviews. Remote reviews are more economical, with 46.1% of responses quoting between $25 and $40 per hour, compared to onsite reviews where 48.7% exceed $40 per hour. This disparity points towards the increasing feasibility and acceptance of remote review models, which offer cost advantages and access to a broader talent pool.
Per Document Review Costs: When it comes to per document costs for review, the survey shows a range of pricing, reflecting the meticulous nature of the task. For onsite reviews, 32.9% of respondents indicate costs greater than $1.00 per document, underlining the intensive labor and expertise required in document examination and analysis.

Demographic Breakdown: Geographical Reach, Business Segments, and Functional Roles of Respondents (Figures 13-15)

In the Winter 2024 eDiscovery Pricing Survey conducted by ComplexDiscovery OÜ, the demographics of the 76 respondents paint a vivid picture of the eDiscovery ecosystem and its diverse participants. The survey, with its broad reach and varied participant base, offers insights that are as much about the people behind the data as the data itself.

At the forefront of this demographic landscape is the overwhelming representation of professionals from the United States, who constitute 94.7% of the survey's respondents. This significant concentration of U.S.-based professionals emphasizes the strong influence of North American practices and standards on the eDiscovery industry. It also suggests that the survey's findings are particularly reflective of trends and sentiments within the U.S. market. While other regions like the United Kingdom, Asia/Asia Pacific, and non-UK Europe are also represented, their presence is markedly smaller, highlighting the survey's predominantly American perspective.

Diving deeper into the professional backgrounds of the respondents, the survey captures a wide array of roles and sectors within the eDiscovery sphere. Software and services providers emerge as the largest group, accounting for 40.8% of the responses. This segment's prominence underscores the crucial role that technology plays in eDiscovery, from software solutions to comprehensive service offerings. Law firms, making up 31.6% of the responses, stand as the second-largest group. Their substantial participation reflects the deep entwinement of legal practices with eDiscovery, given that law firms are often at the forefront of employing eDiscovery services in litigation and legal compliance.

Consultancies and corporations also contribute significantly to the survey's respondent pool, representing 10.5% and 9.2%, respectively. These professionals bring perspectives that range from strategic advisory roles to in-house management of eDiscovery processes. Though smaller in number, their input is vital in painting a complete picture of the eDiscovery landscape.

The survey also sheds light on the primary functions of the respondents within their organizations. A majority, 69.7%, are involved in legal or litigation support roles, indicating the predominance of legal considerations in eDiscovery operations. Business and business support functions account for 27.6% of the respondents, highlighting the cross-functional nature of eDiscovery as it intersects with various business operations. Those in IT and product development roles, though forming a smaller fraction at 2.6%, underscore the importance of technology and innovation in shaping eDiscovery solutions.

In essence, the demographic data from the Winter 2024 eDiscovery Pricing Survey provides a narrative of the eDiscovery industry's composition and its evolving dynamics. The strong U.S. presence, coupled with the diverse range of professional roles and sectors represented, reveals an industry that is both deeply rooted in legal practices and progressively influenced by technological advancements. This rich tapestry of respondents not only lends credibility to the survey's findings but also ensures that the insights gleaned are well-rounded and reflective of the multifaceted nature of eDiscovery.

Adapting to New Pricing Realities in eDiscovery

The Winter 2024 eDiscovery Pricing Survey offers a comprehensive and detailed view of the pricing landscape across various eDiscovery services. It highlights the industry's gradual shift towards more flexible, adaptive, and cost-efficient models in collection, processing, and review services. The insights from this survey are crucial for eDiscovery professionals, providing benchmarks and guiding principles for informed decision-making and strategic planning in this complex field.

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eDiscovery Pricing Survey Responses

n=76 Respondents

Collection Pricing

1a. What is the per hour cost for an onsite collection by a forensic examiner?

Less than $250 per hour. 5.3%
Between $250 and $350 per hour. 68.4%
Greater than $350 per hour. 9.2%
Do not know. 13.2%
Alternative pricing model for per hour costs. 3.9%

[pdf-embedder url="https://complexdiscovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Collection-Pricing-Per-Hour-Cost-for-an-Onsite-Collection-by-a-Forensic-Examiner-Winter-2024-Pricing.pdf" title="Collection Pricing – Per Hour Cost for an Onsite Collection by a Forensic Examiner – Winter 2024 Pricing"]

1b. What is the per hour cost for a remote collection by a forensic examiner?

Less than $250 per hour. 15.8%%
Between $250 and $350 per hour. 63.2%
Greater than $350 per hour. 2.6%
Do not know. 11.8%
Alternative pricing model for per hour costs. 6.6%

[pdf-embedder url="https://complexdiscovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Collection-Pricing-Per-Hour-Cost-for-a-Remote-Collection-by-a-Forensic-Examiner-Winter-2024-Pricing.pdf" title="Collection Pricing – Per Hour Cost for a Remote Collection by a Forensic Examiner – Winter 2024 Pricing"]

2a. What is the per device cost for a desktop or laptop computer collection by a forensic examiner?

Less than $250 per device. 3.9%
Between $250 and $350 per device. 15.8%
Greater than $350 per device. 51.3%
Do not know. 18.4%
Alternative pricing model for per device costs. 10.5%

[pdf-embedder url="https://complexdiscovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Collection-Pricing-Per-Device-Cost-for-a-Desktop-Laptop-Computer-Collection-by-a-Forensic-Examiner-Winter-2024-Pricing.pdf" title="Collection Pricing – Per Device Cost for a Desktop – Laptop Computer Collection by a Forensic Examiner – Winter 2024 Pricing"]

2b. What is the per device cost for a mobile device collection by a forensic examiner?

Less than $250 per device. 3.9%
Between $250 and $350 per device. 26.3%
Greater than $350 per device. 50.0%
Do not know. 14.5%
Alternative pricing model for per device costs. 5.3%

[pdf-embedder url="https://complexdiscovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Collection-Pricing-Per-Device-Cost-for-a-Mobile-Device-Collection-by-a-Forensic-Examiner-Winter-2024.pdf" title="Collection Pricing – Per Device Cost for a Mobile Device Collection by a Forensic Examiner – Winter 2024"]

3a. What is the per hour cost for investigation, analysis, and report generation by a forensic examiner?

Less than $350 per hour. 27.6%
Between $350 and $550 per hour. 53.9%
Greater than $550 per hour. 1.3%
Do not know. 13.2%
Alternative pricing model for per hour costs. 3.9%

[pdf-embedder url="https://complexdiscovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Collection-Pricing-Per-Hour-Cost-for-Investigation-Analysis-and-Report-Generation-by-an-FE-Winter-2024-Pricing.pdf" title="Collection Pricing – Per Hour Cost for Investigation, Analysis and Report Generation by an FE – Winter 2024 Pricing"]

3b. What is the per hour cost for expert witness testimony (in-person and written) by a forensic examiner?

Less than $350 per hour. 6.6%
Between $350 and $550 per hour. 51.3%
Greater than $550 per hour. 26.3%
Do not know. 11.8%
Alternative pricing model for per hour costs. 3.9%

[pdf-embedder url="https://complexdiscovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Collection-Pricing-Per-Hour-Cost-for-Expert-Witness-Testimony-In-Person-and-Written-by-an-FE-Winter-2024-Pricing.pdf" title="Collection Pricing – Per Hour Cost for Expert Witness Testimony (In-Person and Written) by an FE – Winter 2024 Pricing"]

Processing Pricing

4a. What is the per GB cost to process electronically stored information based on volume at ingestion for 250 GB or less?

Less than $25 per GB. 23.7%
Between $25 and $75 per GB. 38.2%
Greater than $75 per GB. 6.6%
Do not know. 11.8%
Alternative pricing model for per GB costs. 19.7%

[pdf-embedder url="https://complexdiscovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Processing-Pricing-Per-GB-Cost-to-Process-ESI-Based-on-Volume-at-Ingestion-for-250-GB-or-Less-Winter-2024-Pricing.pdf" title="Processing Pricing – Per GB Cost to Process ESI Based on Volume at Ingestion for 250 GB or Less – Winter 2024 Pricing"]

4b. What is the per GB cost to process electronically stored information based on volume at ingestion for 251 GB or more?

Less than $25 per GB. 32.9%
Between $25 and $75 per GB. 31.6%
Greater than $75 per GB. 2.6%
Do not know. 13.2%
Alternative pricing model for per GB costs. 19.7%

[pdf-embedder url="https://complexdiscovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Processing-Pricing-Per-GB-Cost-to-Process-ESI-Based-on-Volume-at-Ingestion-for-251-GB-or-More-Winter-2024-Pricing.pdf" title="Processing Pricing – Per GB Cost to Process ESI Based on Volume at Ingestion for 251 GB or More – Winter 2024 Pricing"]

5a. What is the per GB cost to process electronically stored information based on volume at completion of processing for 250 GB or less?

Less than $100 per GB. 42.1%
Between $100 and $150 per GB. 18.4%
Greater than $150 per GB. 3.9%
Do not know. 15.8%
Alternative pricing model for per GB costs. 19.7%

[pdf-embedder url="https://complexdiscovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Processing-Pricing-Per-GB-Cost-to-Process-ESI-Based-on-Volume-at-Completion-for-250-GB-or-Less-Winter-2024.pdf" title="Processing Pricing – Per GB Cost to Process ESI Based on Volume at Completion for 250 GB or Less – Winter 2024"]

5b. What is the per GB cost to process electronically stored information based on volume at completion of processing for 251 GB or more?

Less than $100 per GB. 46.1%
Between $100 and $150 per GB. 14.5%
Greater than $150 per GB. 1.3%
Do not know. 14.5%
Alternative pricing model for per GB costs. 23.7%

[pdf-embedder url="https://complexdiscovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Processing-Pricing-Per-GB-Cost-to-Process-ESI-Based-on-Volume-at-Completion-for-251-GB-or-More-Winter-2024-Pricing.pdf" title="Processing Pricing – Per GB Cost to Process ESI Based on Volume at Completion for 251 GB or More – Winter 2024 Pricing"]

6a. What is the per GB per month cost to host electronically stored information without analytics for 250 GB or less?

Less than $10 per GB per month. 28.9%
Between $10 and $20 per GB per month. 42.1%
Greater than $20 per GB per month. 5.3%
Do not know. 10.5%
Alternative pricing model for per GB costs. 13.2%

[pdf-embedder url="https://complexdiscovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Processing-Pricing-Per-GB-Cost-Per-Month-to-Host-ESI-without-Analytics-for-250-GB-or-Less-Winter-2024-Pricing.pdf" title="Processing Pricing – Per GB Cost Per Month to Host ESI without Analytics for 250 GB or Less – Winter 2024 Pricing"]

6b. What is the per GB per month cost to host electronically stored information without analytics for 251 GB or more?

Less than $10 per GB per month. 34.2%
Between $10 and $20 per GB per month. 42.1%
Greater than $20 per GB per month. 2.6%
Do not know. 7.9%
Alternative pricing model for per GB costs. 13.2%

[pdf-embedder url="https://complexdiscovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Processing-Pricing-Per-GB-Cost-Per-Month-to-Host-ESI-without-Analytics-for-251-GB-or-More-Winter-2024-Pricing.pdf" title="Processing Pricing – Per GB Cost Per Month to Host ESI without Analytics for 251 GB or More – Winter 2024 Pricing"]

7a. What is the per GB per month cost to host electronically stored information with analytics for 250 GB or less?

Less than $15 per GB per month. 35.5%
Between $15 and $25 per GB per month. 27.6%
Greater than $25 per GB per month. 10.5%
Do not know. 10.5%
Alternative pricing model for per GB costs. 15.8%

[pdf-embedder url="https://complexdiscovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Processing-Pricing-Per-GB-Cost-Per-Month-to-Host-ESI-with-Analytics-for-250-GB-or-Less-Winter-2024-Pricing.pdf" title="Processing Pricing – Per GB Cost Per Month to Host ESI with Analytics for 250 GB or Less – Winter 2024 Pricing"]

7b. What is the per GB per month cost to host electronically stored information with analytics for 251 GB or more?

Less than $15 per GB per month. 42.1%
Between $15 and $25 per GB per month. 23.7%
Greater than $25 per GB per month. 6.6%
Do not know. 10.5%
Alternative pricing model for per GB costs. 17.1%

[pdf-embedder url="https://complexdiscovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Processing-Pricing-Per-GB-Cost-Per-Month-to-Host-ESI-with-Analytics-for-251-GB-or-More-Winter-2024-Pricing.pdf" title="Processing Pricing – Per GB Cost Per Month to Host ESI with Analytics for 251 GB or More – Winter 2024 Pricing"]

8a. What is the user license fee per month for access to hosted data for 250 users or less?

Less than $50 per user per month. 5.3%
Between $50 and $100 per user per month. 55.3%
Greater than $100 per user per month. 13.2%
Do not know. 10.5%
Alternative pricing model for user license costs. 15.8%

[pdf-embedder url="https://complexdiscovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Processing-Pricing-User-License-Fee-Per-Month-for-Access-to-Hosted-Data-for-250-Users-or-Less-Winter-2024-Pricing.pdf" title="Processing Pricing – User License Fee Per Month for Access to Hosted Data for 250 Users or Less – Winter 2024 Pricing"]

8b. What is the user license fee per month for access to hosted data for 251 users or more?

Less than $50 per user per month. 6.6%
Between $50 and $100 per user per month. 51.3%
Greater than $100 per user per month. 11.8%
Do not know. 14.5%
Alternative pricing model for user license costs. 15.8%

[pdf-embedder url="https://complexdiscovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Processing-Pricing-User-License-Fee-Per-Month-for-Access-to-Hosted-Data-for-251-Users-or-More-Winter-2024-Updated-1.pdf" title="Processing Pricing – User License Fee Per Month for Access to Hosted Data for 251 Users or More – Winter 2024 Updated"]

9a. What is the per hour cost of basic project management support for eDiscovery?

Less than $100 per hour. 2.6%
Between $100 and $200 per hour. 56.6%
Greater than $200 per hour. 27.6%
Do not know. 7.9%
Alternative pricing model for per hour costs. 5.3%

[pdf-embedder url="https://complexdiscovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Processing-Pricing-Per-Hour-Cost-of-Basic-Project-Management-Support-for-eDiscovery-Winter-2024-Pricing.pdf" title="Processing Pricing – Per Hour Cost of Basic Project Management Support for eDiscovery – Winter 2024 Pricing"]

9b. What is the per hour cost of advanced project management support for eDiscovery?

Less than $100 per hour. 1.3%
Between $100 and $200 per hour. 23.7%
Greater than $200 per hour. 64.5%
Do not know. 6.6%
Alternative pricing model for per hour costs. 3.9%

[pdf-embedder url="https://complexdiscovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Processing-Pricing-Per-Hour-Cost-of-Advanced-Project-Management-Support-for-eDiscovery-Winter-2024-Pricing.pdf" title="Processing Pricing – Per Hour Cost of Advanced Project Management Support for eDiscovery – Winter 2024 Pricing"]

Review Pricing

10a. What is the per GB cost to conduct predictive coding as part of a technology-assisted review for 250 GB or less?

Less than $75 per GB. 21.1%
Between $75 and $150 per GB. 9.2%
Greater than $150 per GB. 3.9%
Do not know. 26.3%
Alternative pricing model for per GB costs. 39.5%

[pdf-embedder url="https://complexdiscovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Review-Pricing-Per-GB-Cost-for-Predictive-Coding-in-a-Technology-Assisted-Review-for-250-GB-or-Less-Winter-2024-Pricing.pdf" title="Review Pricing – Per GB Cost for Predictive Coding in a Technology-Assisted Review for 250 GB or Less – Winter 2024 Pricing"]

10b. What is the per GB cost to conduct predictive coding as part of a technology-assisted review for 251 GB or more?

Less than $75 per GB. 23.7%
Between $75 and $150 per GB. 6.6%
Greater than $150 per GB. 2.6%
Do not know. 26.3%
Alternative pricing model for per GB costs. 40.8%

[pdf-embedder url="https://complexdiscovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Review-Pricing-Per-GB-Cost-for-Predictive-Coding-in-a-Technology-Assisted-Review-for-251-GB-or-More-Winter-2024-Pricing.pdf" title="Review Pricing – Per GB Cost for Predictive Coding in a Technology-Assisted Review for 251 GB or More – Winter 2024 Pricing"]

11a. What is the cost per hour for document review attorneys to review documents for an onsite managed review?

Less than $25 per hour. 1.3%
Between $25 and $40 per hour. 23.7%
Greater than $40 per hour. 48.7%
Do not know. 19.7%
Alternative pricing model for per hour costs. 6.6%

[pdf-embedder url="https://complexdiscovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Review-Pricing-Per-Hour-Cost-for-Document-Review-Attorneys-to-Review-Documents-Onsite-Winter-2024-Pricing.pdf" title="Review Pricing – Per Hour Cost for Document Review Attorneys to Review Documents Onsite – Winter 2024 Pricing"]

11b. What is the cost per hour for document review attorneys to review documents for a remote managed review?

Less than $25 per hour. 1.3%
Between $25 and $40 per hour. 46.1%
Greater than $40 per hour. 31.6%
Do not know. 14.5%
Alternative pricing model for per hour costs. 6.6%

[pdf-embedder url="https://complexdiscovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Review-Pricing-Per-Hour-Cost-for-Document-Review-Attorneys-to-Review-Documents-Remote-Winter-2024-Pricing.pdf" title="Review Pricing – Per Hour Cost for Document Review Attorneys to Review Documents Remote – Winter 2024 Pricing"]

12a. What is the cost per document for document review attorneys to review documents for an onsite managed review?

Less than $0.50 per document. 3.9%
Between $0.50 and $1.00 per document. 17.1%
Greater than $1.00 per document. 32.9%
Do not know. 27.6%
Alternative pricing model for per document costs. 18.4%

[pdf-embedder url="https://complexdiscovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Review-Pricing-Per-Document-Cost-for-Document-Review-Attorneys-to-Review-Documents-Onsite-Winter-2024-Pricing.pdf" title="Review Pricing – Per Document Cost for Document Review Attorneys to Review Documents Onsite – Winter 2024 Pricing"]

12b. What is the cost per document for document review attorneys to review documents for a remote managed review?

Less than $0.50 per document. 6.6%
Between $0.50 and $1.00 per document. 27.6%
Greater than $1.00 per document. 23.7%
Do not know. 25.0%
Alternative pricing model for per document costs. 17.1%

[pdf-embedder url="https://complexdiscovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Review-Pricing-Per-Document-Cost-for-Document-Review-Attorneys-to-Review-Documents-Remote-Winter-2024-Pricing.pdf" title="Review Pricing – Per Document Cost for Document Review Attorneys to Review Documents Remote – Winter 2024 Pricing"]

Background Information

13. In which geographical region do you primarily conduct eDiscovery-related business?

North America – United States. 94.7%
Europe – United Kingdom. 2.6%
Asia/Asia Pacific. 1.3%
Europe – Non-UK. 1.3%
North America – Canada. 0.0%
Middle East/Africa. 0.0%
Central/South America. 0.0%

[pdf-embedder url="https://complexdiscovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Survey-Respondents-by-Geographic-Region-Winter-2024-Pricing.pdf" title="Survey Respondents by Geographic Region – Winter 2024 Pricing"]

14. Which of the following segments best describes your business in eDiscovery?

Software and/or Services Provider. 40.8%
Law Firm. 31.6%
Consultancy. 10.5%
Corporation. 9.2%
Media/Research Organization/Educational Association. 7.9%
Government Entity. 0.0%

[pdf-embedder url="https://complexdiscovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Survey-Respondents-by-Organizational-Segment-Winter-2024-Pricing.pdf" title="Survey Respondents by Organizational Segment – Winter 2024 Pricing"]

15. What area best describes your primary function in the conduct of your organization’s eDiscovery business?

Legal/Litigation Support. 69.7%
Business/Business Support (All Other Business Functions). 27.6%
IT/Product Development. 2.6%

[pdf-embedder url="https://complexdiscovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Survey-Respondents-by-Primary-Function-Winter-2024-Pricing.pdf" title="Survey Respondents by Primary Function – Winter 2024 Pricing"]

Background: eDiscovery Pricing Survey Respondents by Survey

[pdf-embedder url="https://complexdiscovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Survey-Respondents-Individual-and-Aggregate-Overview-Winter-2024.pdf" title="Survey Respondents (Individual and Aggregate Overview) – Winter 2024"]

*For the purpose of this ongoing industry survey, price and cost are used interchangeably and represent the amount a customer is willing to pay for the service. However, from a financial and accounting perspective, pricing is the amount a customer is willing to pay. The cost is typically the expense incurred for creating and delivering the service.

**Survey methodology focused on achieving at least 50 responses with the least number of emails sent to the ComplexDiscovery and EDRM industry professional databases. This approach sought to minimize the number of requests for survey participation while ensuring a solid number of responses from which to generally assess market sentiment in survey areas of interest.

Assisted by GAI and LLM Technologies

Additional Reading

Purchase Access to the Complete Presentation of Charts: Market Kinetics – eDiscovery Pricing Overview – Winter 2024 (PDF)

Complete Presentation: Market Kinetics – eDiscovery Pricing Overview – Winter 2024 (PDF) – Click to Download and Mouseover to Scroll

[pdf-embedder url="https://complexdiscovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/0-Market-Kinetics-eDiscovery-Pricing-Winter-2024-120523.pdf" title="0 – Market Kinetics – eDiscovery Pricing – Winter 2024 – 120523"]

Source: ComplexDiscovery

Industry Research

Shaping eDiscovery Strategies: Winter 2024 Pricing Report*

ComplexDiscovery Staff

Detailed Collection Pricing Analysis (Figures 1-3)

Collection, a fundamental phase in eDiscovery, involves diverse tasks performed by forensic examiners. The survey provides an intricate look into the costs associated with these services.

Onsite Collection: The majority of respondents (68.4%) indicate the per hour cost for onsite collection by a forensic examiner falls between $250 and $350. This cost bracket reflects the need for specialized skills, equipment, and often, the urgency associated with onsite data collection.
Remote Collection: In contrast, remote collection, which has gained traction due to technological advancements and increased efficiency, shows a slight reduction in costs. About 63.2% of professionals cite costs between $250 and $350 per hour, while 15.8% report less than $250, illustrating the cost benefits of remote operations.
Device-Specific Collections: Desktop and laptop collections, as well as mobile device collections, are noted for their higher costs. A significant 51.3% quote more than $350 per device for desktop/laptop collections, while mobile device collection costs are similarly high, with 50.0% quoting above $350 per device. These figures highlight the technical complexities and expertise required in handling varied data sources.
Investigative Services and Expert Testimony: Investigative services, including analysis and report generation, command a high value, with 53.9% charging between $350 and $550 per hour. The cost for expert witness testimony is even higher, with 26.3% exceeding $550 per hour, reflecting the premium placed on specialized legal expertise and credibility in judicial proceedings.

Comprehensive Processing Pricing Analysis (Figures 4-9)

Cost Efficiency in Large Volume Processing: Notably, for volumes over 251 GB, processing costs at ingestion stage are less, with 32.9% of the responses indicating less than $25 per GB. This trend towards lower costs for larger volumes persists at the completion of processing, where 46.1% charge less than $100 per GB. These figures underscore the economies of scale in eDiscovery, where handling larger data sets becomes relatively cost-effective.
Alternative Pricing Models: The survey also highlights a shift towards alternative pricing models in processing, with 19.7% of respondents favoring these for both ingestion and completion stages. This trend reflects a growing inclination towards pricing strategies that are tailored to the specific needs of each project, taking into account factors like data complexity and processing requirements.

Project management plays a pivotal role in the successful execution of eDiscovery projects, and its pricing is a key component of the overall cost structure.

Basic Project Management: The survey reveals that the majority (56.6%) of respondents charge between $100 and $200 per hour for basic project management support. This cost bracket suggests that even fundamental project management tasks in eDiscovery require a significant investment, underscoring the importance of efficient coordination and oversight in these projects.
Advanced Project Management: For more complex and demanding project management tasks, the costs escalate. The survey shows that a substantial proportion (64.5%) of professionals charge over $200 per hour for advanced project management support. This higher cost reflects the specialized skills and in-depth involvement required to manage intricate aspects of eDiscovery projects, such as handling complex data types, navigating legal intricacies, or coordinating extensive teams.

In-Depth Review Pricing Analysis (Figures 10-12)

Document review, a labor-intensive and critical phase in eDiscovery, has its own unique pricing trends, as revealed by the survey.

Predictive Coding in TAR: The use of predictive coding in technology-assisted review (TAR) is seeing a shift in pricing models. A substantial 39.5% for datasets under 250 GB and 40.8% for larger datasets suggest alternative pricing models, moving away from the traditional per GB pricing. This indicates an adaptation to the evolving technological landscape in document review, recognizing the specialized nature and varying complexities of predictive coding.
Cost Variations in Document Review: The survey reveals notable differences in the costs for onsite and remote document reviews. Remote reviews are more economical, with 46.1% of responses quoting between $25 and $40 per hour, compared to onsite reviews where 48.7% exceed $40 per hour. This disparity points towards the increasing feasibility and acceptance of remote review models, which offer cost advantages and access to a broader talent pool.
Per Document Review Costs: When it comes to per document costs for review, the survey shows a range of pricing, reflecting the meticulous nature of the task. For onsite reviews, 32.9% of respondents indicate costs greater than $1.00 per document, underlining the intensive labor and expertise required in document examination and analysis.

Demographic Breakdown: Geographical Reach, Business Segments, and Functional Roles of Respondents (Figures 13-15)

Adapting to New Pricing Realities in eDiscovery

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eDiscovery Pricing Survey Responses

n=76 Respondents

Collection Pricing

1a. What is the per hour cost for an onsite collection by a forensic examiner?

Less than $250 per hour. 5.3%
Between $250 and $350 per hour. 68.4%
Greater than $350 per hour. 9.2%
Do not know. 13.2%
Alternative pricing model for per hour costs. 3.9%

1b. What is the per hour cost for a remote collection by a forensic examiner?

Less than $250 per hour. 15.8%%
Between $250 and $350 per hour. 63.2%
Greater than $350 per hour. 2.6%
Do not know. 11.8%
Alternative pricing model for per hour costs. 6.6%

2a. What is the per device cost for a desktop or laptop computer collection by a forensic examiner?

Less than $250 per device. 3.9%
Between $250 and $350 per device. 15.8%
Greater than $350 per device. 51.3%
Do not know. 18.4%
Alternative pricing model for per device costs. 10.5%

2b. What is the per device cost for a mobile device collection by a forensic examiner?

Less than $250 per device. 3.9%
Between $250 and $350 per device. 26.3%
Greater than $350 per device. 50.0%
Do not know. 14.5%
Alternative pricing model for per device costs. 5.3%

3a. What is the per hour cost for investigation, analysis, and report generation by a forensic examiner?

Less than $350 per hour. 27.6%
Between $350 and $550 per hour. 53.9%
Greater than $550 per hour. 1.3%
Do not know. 13.2%
Alternative pricing model for per hour costs. 3.9%

3b. What is the per hour cost for expert witness testimony (in-person and written) by a forensic examiner?

Less than $350 per hour. 6.6%
Between $350 and $550 per hour. 51.3%
Greater than $550 per hour. 26.3%
Do not know. 11.8%
Alternative pricing model for per hour costs. 3.9%

Processing Pricing

4a. What is the per GB cost to process electronically stored information based on volume at ingestion for 250 GB or less?

Less than $25 per GB. 23.7%
Between $25 and $75 per GB. 38.2%
Greater than $75 per GB. 6.6%
Do not know. 11.8%
Alternative pricing model for per GB costs. 19.7%

4b. What is the per GB cost to process electronically stored information based on volume at ingestion for 251 GB or more?

Less than $25 per GB. 32.9%
Between $25 and $75 per GB. 31.6%
Greater than $75 per GB. 2.6%
Do not know. 13.2%
Alternative pricing model for per GB costs. 19.7%

[pdf-embedder url="https://complexdiscovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Processing-Pricing-Per-GB-Cost-to-Process-ESI-Based-on-Volume-at-Ingestion-for-251-GB-or-More-Winter-2024-Pricing.pdf" title="Processing Pricing – Per GB Cost to Process ESI Based on Volume at Ingestion for 251 GB or More – Winter 2024 Pricing"]

5a. What is the per GB cost to process electronically stored information based on volume at completion of processing for 250 GB or less?

Less than $100 per GB. 42.1%
Between $100 and $150 per GB. 18.4%
Greater than $150 per GB. 3.9%
Do not know. 15.8%
Alternative pricing model for per GB costs. 19.7%

5b. What is the per GB cost to process electronically stored information based on volume at completion of processing for 251 GB or more?

Less than $100 per GB. 46.1%
Between $100 and $150 per GB. 14.5%
Greater than $150 per GB. 1.3%
Do not know. 14.5%
Alternative pricing model for per GB costs. 23.7%

[pdf-embedder url="https://complexdiscovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Processing-Pricing-Per-GB-Cost-to-Process-ESI-Based-on-Volume-at-Completion-for-251-GB-or-More-Winter-2024-Pricing.pdf" title="Processing Pricing – Per GB Cost to Process ESI Based on Volume at Completion for 251 GB or More – Winter 2024 Pricing"]

6a. What is the per GB per month cost to host electronically stored information without analytics for 250 GB or less?

Less than $10 per GB per month. 28.9%
Between $10 and $20 per GB per month. 42.1%
Greater than $20 per GB per month. 5.3%
Do not know. 10.5%
Alternative pricing model for per GB costs. 13.2%

6b. What is the per GB per month cost to host electronically stored information without analytics for 251 GB or more?

Less than $10 per GB per month. 34.2%
Between $10 and $20 per GB per month. 42.1%
Greater than $20 per GB per month. 2.6%
Do not know. 7.9%
Alternative pricing model for per GB costs. 13.2%

[pdf-embedder url="https://complexdiscovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Processing-Pricing-Per-GB-Cost-Per-Month-to-Host-ESI-without-Analytics-for-251-GB-or-More-Winter-2024-Pricing.pdf" title="Processing Pricing – Per GB Cost Per Month to Host ESI without Analytics for 251 GB or More – Winter 2024 Pricing"]

7a. What is the per GB per month cost to host electronically stored information with analytics for 250 GB or less?

Less than $15 per GB per month. 35.5%
Between $15 and $25 per GB per month. 27.6%
Greater than $25 per GB per month. 10.5%
Do not know. 10.5%
Alternative pricing model for per GB costs. 15.8%

7b. What is the per GB per month cost to host electronically stored information with analytics for 251 GB or more?

Less than $15 per GB per month. 42.1%
Between $15 and $25 per GB per month. 23.7%
Greater than $25 per GB per month. 6.6%
Do not know. 10.5%
Alternative pricing model for per GB costs. 17.1%

8a. What is the user license fee per month for access to hosted data for 250 users or less?

Less than $50 per user per month. 5.3%
Between $50 and $100 per user per month. 55.3%
Greater than $100 per user per month. 13.2%
Do not know. 10.5%
Alternative pricing model for user license costs. 15.8%

8b. What is the user license fee per month for access to hosted data for 251 users or more?

Less than $50 per user per month. 6.6%
Between $50 and $100 per user per month. 51.3%
Greater than $100 per user per month. 11.8%
Do not know. 14.5%
Alternative pricing model for user license costs. 15.8%

[pdf-embedder url="https://complexdiscovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Processing-Pricing-User-License-Fee-Per-Month-for-Access-to-Hosted-Data-for-251-Users-or-More-Winter-2024-Updated-1.pdf" title="Processing Pricing – User License Fee Per Month for Access to Hosted Data for 251 Users or More – Winter 2024 Updated"]

9a. What is the per hour cost of basic project management support for eDiscovery?

Less than $100 per hour. 2.6%
Between $100 and $200 per hour. 56.6%
Greater than $200 per hour. 27.6%
Do not know. 7.9%
Alternative pricing model for per hour costs. 5.3%

9b. What is the per hour cost of advanced project management support for eDiscovery?

Less than $100 per hour. 1.3%
Between $100 and $200 per hour. 23.7%
Greater than $200 per hour. 64.5%
Do not know. 6.6%
Alternative pricing model for per hour costs. 3.9%

Review Pricing

10a. What is the per GB cost to conduct predictive coding as part of a technology-assisted review for 250 GB or less?

Less than $75 per GB. 21.1%
Between $75 and $150 per GB. 9.2%
Greater than $150 per GB. 3.9%
Do not know. 26.3%
Alternative pricing model for per GB costs. 39.5%

10b. What is the per GB cost to conduct predictive coding as part of a technology-assisted review for 251 GB or more?

Less than $75 per GB. 23.7%
Between $75 and $150 per GB. 6.6%
Greater than $150 per GB. 2.6%
Do not know. 26.3%
Alternative pricing model for per GB costs. 40.8%

[pdf-embedder url="https://complexdiscovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Review-Pricing-Per-GB-Cost-for-Predictive-Coding-in-a-Technology-Assisted-Review-for-251-GB-or-More-Winter-2024-Pricing.pdf" title="Review Pricing – Per GB Cost for Predictive Coding in a Technology-Assisted Review for 251 GB or More – Winter 2024 Pricing"]

11a. What is the cost per hour for document review attorneys to review documents for an onsite managed review?

Less than $25 per hour. 1.3%
Between $25 and $40 per hour. 23.7%
Greater than $40 per hour. 48.7%
Do not know. 19.7%
Alternative pricing model for per hour costs. 6.6%

11b. What is the cost per hour for document review attorneys to review documents for a remote managed review?

Less than $25 per hour. 1.3%
Between $25 and $40 per hour. 46.1%
Greater than $40 per hour. 31.6%
Do not know. 14.5%
Alternative pricing model for per hour costs. 6.6%

[pdf-embedder url="https://complexdiscovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Review-Pricing-Per-Hour-Cost-for-Document-Review-Attorneys-to-Review-Documents-Remote-Winter-2024-Pricing.pdf" title="Review Pricing – Per Hour Cost for Document Review Attorneys to Review Documents Remote – Winter 2024 Pricing"]

12a. What is the cost per document for document review attorneys to review documents for an onsite managed review?

Less than $0.50 per document. 3.9%
Between $0.50 and $1.00 per document. 17.1%
Greater than $1.00 per document. 32.9%
Do not know. 27.6%
Alternative pricing model for per document costs. 18.4%

12b. What is the cost per document for document review attorneys to review documents for a remote managed review?

Less than $0.50 per document. 6.6%
Between $0.50 and $1.00 per document. 27.6%
Greater than $1.00 per document. 23.7%
Do not know. 25.0%
Alternative pricing model for per document costs. 17.1%

[pdf-embedder url="https://complexdiscovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Review-Pricing-Per-Document-Cost-for-Document-Review-Attorneys-to-Review-Documents-Remote-Winter-2024-Pricing.pdf" title="Review Pricing – Per Document Cost for Document Review Attorneys to Review Documents Remote – Winter 2024 Pricing"]

Background Information

13. In which geographical region do you primarily conduct eDiscovery-related business?