Investigation tools, compared and explained
Plain answers for investigators, analysts and journalists choosing tools and building cases: how products compare, what they cost, and how to get from first search to a report a client can rely on.
Comparison
DeepState vs Maltego: which fits a small investigation practice?
DeepState and Maltego compared on price, research, AI, where case data is stored and reporting, for solo investigators and small firms deciding between them.
Hunchly vs DeepState: capturing evidence vs building the case
What Hunchly and DeepState each capture, how each proves a capture hasn't changed, what they cost, and when you'd use one, the other, or both.
i2 Analyst's Notebook alternatives (including for Mac) in 2026
Options for link and timeline analysis when i2 Analyst's Notebook is too expensive, too heavy, or doesn't run on your Mac, compared on price, platform, what each does well and where each falls short.
Maltego alternatives in 2026: options for solo investigators and small firms
What to use instead of Maltego when the paid plans are out of reach: link-analysis and OSINT case tools compared on price, where your data lives, what each does well and where each falls short.
Guide
Case management software for private investigators: Trackops, CROSStrax and where an investigation board fits
The two kinds of software PIs call "case management" — running the business and working the case — with prices for Trackops, CROSStrax and Casewyze, what each leaves out, and where DeepState fits.
How to write an OSINT due diligence report (structure, sourcing and a template)
A practical structure for open-source due diligence reports on a person or company, how to cite and grade sources so the findings hold up, and a copy-ready template.