---
title: "Investigation Management Overview"
slug: "investigation-management-overview"
tags: ["v8.2"]
updated: 2025-04-29T21:02:21Z
published: 2025-04-29T21:02:21Z
canonical: "docs.serenityops.com/investigation-management-overview"
---

> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.serenityops.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Investigation Management Overview

The Investigation Management application in Serenity Workspace helps EHS teams formalize, track, and resolve investigations stemming from incidents or other organizational concerns. From initial planning through to root cause analysis and final recommendations, the system guides users through a structured, auditable process.

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## Why Use Investigation Management?

- ✔️ Ensure consistent, compliant investigation procedures
- 🔍 Identify true root causes using proven methodologies
- 📎 Attach and organize evidence, findings, and tasks
- 📊 Track resolution actions and measure effectiveness
- 🧾 Maintain a complete digital audit trail

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## Investigation Management Workflow in Serenity

Each investigation moves through a structured lifecycle:

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### Planning Stage

Planning is the first step in the investigation process. Here, users define the scope, team, due dates, and tasks that will guide the investigation forward.

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### Discovery Stage

In this phase, users begin collecting and uploading evidence such as:

- Witness statements
- Photos and videos
- Documents like OSHA forms or reports

All supporting content helps provide a full picture of what occurred.

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### Root Cause Analysis

This critical stage allows users to select a methodology and break down what really caused the event.

Two methodologies are supported:

- **Fishbone (Ishikawa)** – Categorize and trace contributing factors
- **Event & Causal Factor (ECF)** – Timeline-based analysis with contributing cause mapping

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### Recommendations Stage

Findings from the RCA are carried into this step, where users:

- Add additional findings if needed
- Assign Corrective and Preventive Actions (CAPAs)
- Use AI to help suggest effective action steps

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### Closing the Investigation

When the investigation is ready for closure:

- Summarize findings and actions
- Certify completion
- Sign electronically to lock the record

The system supports both early closure (after assignment) and delayed closure (post-completion).