During the investigation process, you gather facts and information to examine a particular subject or issue. Then, you review and analyze these findings in order to make informed decisions. Investigations can be conducted in a variety of contexts, such as when a company investigates an allegation of workplace harassment or when a government agency conducts an audit to determine compliance with anti-money laundering laws.
After you’ve gathered and analyzed your evidence, the next step is to write up your report. This document should contain a summary of your investigation’s outcome and any recommendations for future action. The goal of an investigative report is to provide a roadmap for positive change and help prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. Having your report properly documented also protects your organisation in the event of legal action.
Your investigation may include many different sources, including articles in newspapers and online, surveys, personal interviews, and your own experiences and impressions. However, it’s crucial to check your sources for accuracy and reliability. If you find any discrepancies, be sure to clarify these in your essay.
In addition, it’s important to consider the audience you’re writing for when creating an investigation report. This will influence the level of detail you include, the language you use, and the way your findings are presented.