What we do is best described by how we do it.
We do not publish operational detail. The following describes the discipline applied to every engagement, irrespective of category or jurisdiction.
Requirements
Every mandate is reduced to defined collection requirements, agreed in writing before any work commences.
Collection
Information is gathered through lawful, established channels appropriate to the requirement and the environment.
Source Handling
Sources are protected without exception. Identities, locations and methods are compartmentalised internally.
Assessment
Information is evaluated for reliability and credibility, and held against alternative hypotheses before conclusion.
Reporting
Findings are delivered in a controlled written format calibrated to the recipient and the sensitivity of the matter.
Retention
Material is retained only for the period required by the mandate and is destroyed under defined procedure thereafter.
Standards of analysis.
The firm applies a structured analytic methodology with explicit confidence levels, source evaluation and the consideration of competing hypotheses. We do not state with certainty what cannot be assessed with certainty.
Reports are written in plain language, with assumptions, gaps and dissenting views recorded. The work is intended to inform decisions, not to displace them.
Information handled by the firm is protected to a defined standard.
Compartmentalisation
Internal access is restricted on a strict need-to-know basis.
Encryption
Communications and stored material are protected end-to-end at rest and in transit.
Personnel
Staff are vetted on appointment and subject to ongoing internal review.