Using e-Redact has improved redaction file processing times by 50%.

The challenge

Before Derby City Council e-Redact, all client cases were in paper format and a marker pen was used to remove sensitive information from a photocopy of the original. Processing these paper documents was very time consuming with the number of cases being received each year on the rise.

In addition, manually redacted documents presented a security threat due to sensitive information still remaining visible, even after redaction.

The strategy

Derby City Council was searching for a solution that enabled documents to be redacted electronically prior to disclosure. The system also needed to be financially viable, save time and be simple to implement and use.

e-Redact stood out early on, primarily due to the assured reduction in man hours, and was swiftly implemented, thereafter. The council has since said they would be happy to recommend the solution to other authorities.

The benefits

  • System provided staff with a confidence boost

  • Security of redacted file output improved

  • Supported multi-session working for large files

  • Time-saving and ease of use exceeded expectations

  • Removed need to employ extra staff

  • Professional looking output 

  • Significant cost savings on postage and photocopying

  • Simple to use and saved hours of redacting time 

  • Works with all file formats

  • 100% FOI, DPA, EIR compliance 

ROI for Derby City Council

50% time saving when processing files for redaction

Work scenarios optimised

e-Redact has saved us both time and money. We have saved on both paper and printing costs in addition to staff costs due to the time taken to redact a document being halved.

Alison Moss, Information Governance Manager., Derby City Council

The solution has allowed us to optimise all of our different work scenarios.

Alison Moss, Information Governance Manager., Derby City Council

One of the most significant drivers of the increase in SARs is their strategic use in the context of disputes. A SAR is a fundamental right, but it is increasingly being used as a tactical tool, particularly in the employment sphere.

A Pre-Litigation Tool

Data protection experts have observed that a large percentage of SARs are now tied to parallel claims. For instance, around 80% of the SARs handled by one specialist firm were linked to grievances, employment tribunals, or settlement negotiations.

High Risk for Employers

This trend is a major concern for organisations. Polling data from legal professionals indicates that over 80% of employee SARs are considered “high risk” because they are often connected to employment litigation.
 
Employees may use a SAR as a form of “fishing expedition” to gather evidence before or during a formal dispute, hoping to obtain emails, messages, and other documents that might support their case 

•Beyond Employment

This tactical use isn’t limited to the workplace. Public sector bodies have also noted a growing trend of individuals using SARs as an alternative way to get information during formal complaints procedures