Investigator and Fraud Fighter Guidebook: Operation War Stories

Chapter 7

The Investigator's Toolbox: Resources, Tools, and Techniques

“Measure twice, then cut.”

—Carpenter to an apprentice

Although it's gratifying to accomplish something completely on your own, gaining assistance from others and/or maximizing the use of internal and external resources often provides the best results.

There are times when it is in an investigator's (or their client's) best interest to focus only on one case at a time. But as this book has illustrated, broadening your investigative scope and efforts usually will yield more bang for your buck. Expanding on and utilizing available investigative resources, tools, and techniques often will allow you to accomplish much more, in less time, and often at a lesser cost (in the long run).

Did you ever notice how frequently good managers delegate responsibilities? Investigators should also consider the benefits of delegating and/or working as a team where appropriate so that responsibilities can be shared.

NOTE: Technology keeps on improving, and it will continue to allow investigators to access, collect, and share legally obtained information in many useful ways. This chapter is not an all-encompassing guide to all tools, techniques, and resources available to investigators but should serve as a source and reminder to consider all available resources when planning and conducting investigations. If you are ever in doubt, consult legal counsel to determine the legality of investigative activity before it is conducted.