A data room is a secure repository containing documents and files that have a high value to your business. This includes legalities and customer information, physical assets and IP as in addition to a variety of other corporate documentation. They are utilized for a broad range of reasons, but the most common use is in connection with due diligence processes that are involved in business transactions.
Data rooms can be an effective tool to create the story of your company and aid in gaining investor interest. The narrative will differ depending on stage and could include changes in the market, regulatory changes and your team, as well as growth drivers like important relationships and accounts such as monetization opportunities, expansion of products. The information you choose to include should reflect these themes, and be presented to investors in a manner they are able to digest.
A data room is an important tool to aid in due diligence, but you must be cautious not to use it for too long. A data room that is used too often can slow down the decision-making process because parties not involved in the deal look over large amounts of documents and send questions back and back and forth. In many cases, it is necessary to organize a pre-data room prior to inviting third parties to ensure that all documents are prepared and uploaded in advance of the main due diligence process. This can make a major difference in how quickly due diligence is completed. It also eliminates unpleasant surprises for outside parties, thereby which reduces the likelihood of a deal being canceled.