Before you can perform a content search in a Core eDiscovery workflow, what is the first step?

The first step in performing a content search in a Core eDiscovery workflow is to create an eDiscovery hold. This step is crucial because it allows you to preserve relevant content that might be needed for legal proceedings or investigations. By placing a hold on data, you prevent it from being altered or deleted, ensuring that the information remains intact for review. This can encompass items like emails, documents, and other communications that are pertinent to the case being investigated.

Creating the eDiscovery hold is foundational because any subsequent actions, such as running searches or exporting results, depend on having that preserved data available. Without the hold, there is a risk of losing critical information, which can compromise the integrity and legality of the eDiscovery process. Thus, achieving compliance and safeguarding sensitive information starts with this essential first step.