At CDS, real results matter—but it’s our people who make the real difference. Real People, Real Results, is a monthly blog series spotlighting the incredible individuals behind the work we do. 

Each month, you’ll get to know one of our team members—their journey into eDiscovery, expertise, and a little bit of what makes them, well, them. Because at the end of the day, real results start with real people. 

This month, meet Matthew Milone, our Director of Federal Operations. 

How did you land in eDiscovery?

Backwards! When I was in law school, no one even mentioned eDiscovery. So, after I quit the law firm I was working at (after one year) in 2007, I found myself back in my mom’s basement during the recession—and broke. Bills were piling up, and I needed a way to make money and some fresh ideas. Around that time, my friend was doing document review, and when he told me how much he was making, I thought he was lying! But he wasn’t, and he hooked me up with my first gig. From there, it was about three years of learning from anyone and everyone I could until I landed at CDS, where I got my doctorate in eDiscovery.  

How do you explain what you do to family and friends?

First, I try to explain why I can’t help them fight that speeding ticket. That usually takes about 30 minutes and ends with them looking at me like I’m crazy and asking, “So what DO you do?” I try to keep it simple (and I change the answer every time), but the gist is that I work with the government assisting with all things related to evidence in investigations, enforcement, and litigation. Then I say something about “forensics” and “cybersecurity” to really get them off track and confused. Then, I’m free. 

What makes Complete Discovery Source a special place?

When I started at CDS 13 years ago, we were a MUCH smaller company. I remember it feeling like a close-knit group of friends just putting our heads together to do the best we could for our clients. I’m happy to say, not much has changed. Every day, I get the opportunity to work with a solid Public Sector Team, led by the best in the business (and my good friend), Jackie Joyner. Our team delivers exceptional service to the Public Sector, and we take pride in a job well done all while crushing the competition and keeping it light. So, what makes CDS special? CDS lets me be me. 

Name something fun or surprising about you outside of work.

I have two young daughters who keep me busy. But when I’m not hanging with them, I like to suffer outside for long distances with people I love. Whether it’s running, hiking, biking, rowing, or open-water swimming, if there’s an opportunity to get dirty, I’m there. I also do some analog collaging (not very well), and I drive a ’98 Cherokee that I call the “White Lion,” which roars like a cheap lawnmower.  

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone new in eDiscovery?

I’d tell them that the name of the game is teamwork. With all the different clients we work with and skill sets we bring to the table, it’s inevitable that we’ll have to rely on each other to get the job done. That’s what makes this field interesting! I get to collaborate with technical geniuses, high-level consultants, and master communicators who can take all the complexities and explain them to clients in a way that puts them at ease. We all work together, and when we’re in sync, it’s a beautiful thing to be a part of. Embrace your team, be a team player, play your role, ask questions, and learn as you go. Easy peasy. 

Name one trait that eDiscovery professionals must have.

I’ll give you two: thick skin and a penchant for responsiveness. The quickest way to gain your client’s trust is not to take things personally (I learned that the hard way) and always respond in real-time, on time. Sometimes we forget that our clients have their own expectations and requirements to meet, and eDiscovery is usually an area of their practice they’re least familiar with. Let’s make it easier on them—and ourselves. Send the confirmation email! 

CDS bridges the gap between government security requirements and cutting-edge technology—ensuring seamless, compliant adoption. To learn more about custom workflows, product features, pricing, or support, email Matt Milone at .  

Look out next month as we highlight more of the real people driving real results at CDS. To learn more about CDS, contact us at .