Effective Investigations

Investigation Principles

100

To the extent possible, the Complaint and the investigation should be kept _______

 Confidential

200

While it is important to be thorough, it is equally important to conduct the investigation _______

Promptly

300

Employees are required to_______ in the investigation.

 Participate

400

Keep an open ____ throughout the investigation

Mind

500

Look for information and circumstances that tend to support or_____ with the allegations

 Conflict

Responsibilities of an investigator

100

Remain objective, avoid prejudgment/don't take sides.

Objectivity

200

Be extremely attentive to accuracy and detail

Thoroughness

300

Takes place within a suitable time from the date the complaint was received

Timeliness

400

Focus on information that is relevant to the to allegations/complaint. 

 

Relevance

Investigation Terms

100

A report of conduct or activity that is/has taken place that the person making the report believes is wrong for some reason.  

Complaint

200

Person believed to be adversely affected by the conduct noted in the complaint.  Victim and Complainant may be the same person.

Victim

300

The person about whom the complaint is based.

Subject

400

The person who reports the complaint

Complainant

500

Anyone who personally observed or is aware of the concern(s) brought forward.  The Complainant, Subject and Victim are all witnesses, but others may be as well (including vendors, guests, contractors, etc.)

Witness