The 5 Ps of Professional Workplace Investigations

Furthermore, the results of the investigation may be examined in an external arena e.g. an Industrial Tribunal. The impact and effect of the investigation, therefore, is great and so the responsibility to get the investigation “right” is also great.  

At our intensive one-day training event, the 5Ps of Professional Workplace Investigations are examined in depth with opportunities to expand skills to deliver these processes and practices. 

Policies

All workplace investigations are to be managed under the remit of the relevant policy e.g. whistleblowing, disciplinary, grievance, absence management, often with reference to other related policies e.g. data protection, ICT, staff code of conduct. 

Planning

The Investigation Plan is a vital document to direct the investigation and create a framework for practice in terms of data collection and analysis, interview scheduling and people management.

Paperwork

The creation of a set of pro-formas will support the standardisation of all investigation practice in the organisation and will give confidence to managers managing the process.

People

It is essential to select the right person(s) to manage the investigation in terms of knowledge, skills and attitude.  Clarity on the roles and responsibilities of all personnel involved is essential from the outset – e.g. trade union representatives, accompanying persons, human resource personnel.

Practices

Best practice guidance in terms of managing the interviews e.g. using a model for all interviewing; recording and data collection methods; analysing information and report writing are all essential to not only be applied by the investigator but to be provided as a set of protocols for all investigators within the organisation.