Investigation is the action of finding out something, especially about a problem or an allegation of wrongdoing. It involves a thorough and systematic attempt to discover the facts about the subject, such as an investigation into the cause of a company’s financial problems.
It is important to define the scope of an investigation, as it can easily turn into a wild goose chase where resources are wasted and erroneous conclusions could be drawn. The first step in conducting an investigation is to document the allegation/complaint in a written report, as this serves as a formal record of the process and helps protect the organization against legal risks.
Once all the relevant information has been gathered, an investigator should analyze it to assess its credibility and dismiss irrelevant facts. This analysis can be accomplished through physical evidence, email records, documents or papers, interview transcripts, and any other relevant information. It is also critical to note the findings of the investigation, including any recommendations and/or corrective actions.
A good tip for writing investigative pieces is to think about your readers. The best investigations are clear and compelling for the audience, and they avoid drowning in insignificant details. GIJN Masterclass participant Fabrice Arfi from La Libre Belgique explains: “You have to simplify and de-complexify a subject you sometimes spend months working on in order to offer your reader the essentials. Otherwise, you’ll lose the impact and the attractiveness of your article.” Read a selection of the most outstanding investigations from around the world in our Editor’s Picks series.