An investigative report is a verbal or written presentation that gives vital information about a particular case to arrive at relevant findings. The tone of the investigative report can either be formal or informal, depending on the audience (EC-Council, 2017). Generally, an investigative report should be organized in such a way that even the people without technical know-how of the given area of focus can still understand it. Consequently, it must have a structure that is easy to follow. It should start by mentioning the purpose of the investigation, the investigators, and the significant findings (EC-Council, 2017). Next, the report should detail the investigative methods employed to understand the case. This section will offer finer details about the case, such as when it happened, where it took place, the parties involved, and the level of damage, among other issues (Brown, 2010). Finally, the report should bear analysis of the evidence and a presentation of the findings.
An excellent investigative report is one whose contents will be understood easily by the intended audience by avoiding given blunders. First, the procedure for finding relevant material for the report should be based on knowledge and experience and not hypothetical questions (EC-Council, 2017). Second, there should be a logical arrangement of ideas by grouping related matters. Third, the report should be devoid of vague, repetitive, and slang language, which will bar the receivers from understanding the essential facts. Third, personal observations and subjective clues should not feature in a report. Considering these aspects will ensure that the report bears meaningful and straightforward communication.
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There are also additional concepts that need to be included in an investigative report to improve its usefulness. There should be clear headings and subheadings explaining the data collection methods, calculations, error analyses, and results (Mohay, 2003). These sections are essential as they contain the material that will persuade the audience that the case is worth listening to and passing judgment upon.
References
Brown, C. L. (2010). Computer evidence: Collection and preservation . Toronto, ON: Nelson Education.
EC-Council (2017). Investigative Reports. In EC-Council (2 nd ed.), Computer Forensics: Investigation Procedures and Response . Boston, MA: Cengage Learning
Mohay, George M. (2003) Computer and intrusion forensics . Norwood, MA: Artech House.
