Skip to content
ENGLISH EDITION
EN ▾
Sunday, 1 November 2026 Business · World · Analysis
THE BUSINESS TIME
ARGONAUTS MEDIA GROUP®
The Business TimeInvestigations
Investigations

How to build a source matrix before publishing a corporate investigation

A disciplined evidence trail protects readers, subjects and the newsroom.

Evidence matrix in a business investigation – graphic
Graphic: THE BUSINESS TIME

Original editorial explainer / comment. A disciplined evidence trail protects readers, subjects and the newsroom.

The context

A source matrix lists each material claim beside the document or testimony that supports it, together with the date and limitations of the evidence. It distinguishes direct observation from inference.

Our analysis

This method is slower than writing from a single screenshot, but it reduces the risk of turning an allegation into a purported fact. It also makes it easier to assess challenges and corrections fairly.

What to watch

Our editorial practice is to label unverified points, seek response where appropriate and preserve a record of the basis for important assertions.

Editorial note: This is an original explainer, not a report of a newly investigated incident. It should not be read as a finding about any particular person or company.

Corrections & responses

We assess factual corrections and substantive responses. Verified changes are reflected in our reporting.

Contact the editorial desk →

Follow us

Our joint project with partner Techies Go Green

The Business Time app

Official sources and authorities

Disability Confident EmployerDisability Confident employer (level 2) – we employ disabled people. Accessibility statement
PlacesFloods

Read more in: Investigations

29 October 2026, 12:02TBT CHECKS | Tap water meets standards in 99.97% of tests, but 2,991 pollution incidents in a year. What the first joint regulators’ report shows27 October 2026, 16:10TBT CHECKS | 11 fines for failing to protect children online, only two paid. What Ofcom is really doing26 October 2026, 16:15TBT CHECKS | Identity verification at Companies House: almost 4 million people have done it. Does it cost anything and when is the deadline?
All stories in Investigations →
UK weather warnings
Live · Met Office
FULL WEATHER PAGE →
Source: Met Office