What is a recommended approach when determining the scope of an investigation?

Starting with a detailed executive summary is a highly recommended approach when determining the scope of an investigation. A well-structured executive summary provides a clear overview of the objectives, key issues, and the purpose of the investigation. This overview acts as a roadmap, allowing investigators to understand the context and prioritize important aspects of the inquiry. By defining the scope at the outset through an executive summary, the investigation can remain focused and efficient, ensuring that all relevant factors are considered.

The executive summary also serves to communicate essential information to stakeholders, helping to align the investigation with organizational goals and ensuring that necessary resources are allocated effectively. Having this clear framework is crucial for steering the investigation and addressing any complexities that may arise during the process. This approach facilitates collaboration among team members and stakeholders by establishing common goals and expectations from the very beginning.