[Reference: SHRM emphasizes the importance of adhering to standard investigation procedures to ensure fairness and consistency (SHRM, Conducting Workplace Investigations)., Legal Compliance:, Compliance: Following established procedures helps ensure that the investigation complies with legal requirements and minimizes the risk of legal challenges., Documentation: Proper documentation as part of the standard procedure provides a clear record of the investigation process and findings., Reference: SHRM advises that adherence to standard procedures is essential for legal compliance and effective documentation (SHRM, Legal Considerations in Workplace Investigations)., Credibility:, Credible Process: A standardized approach enhances the credibility of the investigation, both internally and externally., Trust: Employees are more likely to trust the investigation process if it follows established and transparent procedures., Reference: SHRM highlights that a credible and transparent investigation process is key to maintaining trust and integrity (SHRM, Building Trust in Investigations)., Third-Party Involvement:, When Needed: Engage a third-party resource if the standard procedure includes provisions for external involvement in cases of potential conflicts of interest., Objective Perspective: Third-party investigators can provide an objective perspective, but this should be within the framework of the company's standard procedures., Reference: SHRM notes the role of third-party investigators in providing objectivity when necessary, in line with company policies (SHRM, Role of Third-Party Investigators)., References:, SHRM. (n.d.). Conducting Workplace Investigations. Society for Human Resource Management., SHRM. (n.d.). Legal Considerations in Workplace Investigations. Society for Human Resource Management., SHRM. (n.d.). Building Trust in Investigations. Society for Human Resource Management., SHRM. (n.d.). Role of Third-Party Investigators. Society for Human Resource Management., ]