Methodology
Our clients seek transparency, integrity, and honesty in their investments overseas. We are proud to offer the same by explaining the standards by which we conduct our due diligence and the approach we use to deliver the critical information our clients demand.
The "Factum Method" consists of three elements: 1) Partner Expertise, (2) Company Contacts, and (3) Contact Development.
The first two elements are standard to the world of due diligence consultancy firms; Factum hires or contracts with former government, private sector, and non-profit experts from around the world. With decades of expertise operating in emerging markets, our partners bring with them a deep understanding of the countries, their histories, political structures, opportunities, and little known risks that our clients need to know. They also have considerable networks of contacts that, with a phone call or email, can bring the client one step closer to achieving their investment goals.
Contact development is the third and most critical element of our approach, distinguishing Factum Partners from its competitors. This technique identifies the people and organizations that can speak authoritatively about the prospective investment and its risks. We identify these contacts through internet research and the use of proprietary databases. Our sources of information often include:
- Former and current employees - Local non-profit organizations
- Suppliers - Industry analysts
- Chambers of Commerce - Universities and professors
- International aid organizations - Customers
- Competitors - Regulatory bodies
- Lawyers - Trade associations
- Major business owners - Journalists
- Unions - Politicians
- Think tanks - Social Clubs (like Rotary Int'l)
- Diplomats at foreign embassies - Law enforcement officers
Once identified, Factum personally approaches each potential contact and interviews them. After vetting the information for accuracy, we use this multi-sourced information to create our analysis and form our recommendations.