Do you need an outside investigator?

Look at the matter	(1 point)	(2 points)	(3 points)
The matter to be investigated is	Simple, involving two parties and one or two incidents	Moderate in complexity, involving more than two parties or multiple incidents	High in complexity, involving multiple parties and multiple incidents, or allegations of hostile environment
The person(s) accused of misconduct	Are nonmanagerial and at the same rank as the complainant	Are middle management and higher in rank than the complainant	Are senior managers or executives
The complaints involve	Inappropriate language, jokes, or simple misconduct	A combination of inappropriate language and multiple acts of misconduct	Extreme racial, sexual, or threatening/harassing behavior
The person to do the investigating	Is extremely experienced and confident	Has some experience, but is uncertain about the best way to proceed	Is inexperienced or is in a reporting relationship to a party in the investigation

1-4 Almost certainly manageable internally

5-9 Consider using outside investigator

10 Recommend outside investigator

The table above can help you decide whether you need an outside investigator. Consider all of the dimensions listed, add up the score, and use the guide to help you decide.