Burnett began building his database in MySQL. At the advice of a friend he later moved it into Access. Burnett could search his data (for his own use or for his clients) and produce 50-60 page reports. He’d add insight based on what he knew from his decades of experience in the field.
Dualboot’s three developers came on board at the beginning of 2023 to transform the database and some of Burnett’s insights into an easily navigable tool. After cleaning and standardizing the available data, Dualboot automated processes to give the Index’s subscribers push button access to clear, concise reports that they can save.
“Because of their experience and creativity, they immediately envisioned an even more expansive utility of the database than we had imagined,” Burnett says. “They are exceptional at what they do and the ideas are always flying!”
Instead of pages of data listing cases, Dualboot developed a meter visualization of the results. A user, for instance, might look for cases involving teens in a particular jurisdiction. They enter their search terms and the app quickly reports on the total number of relevant cases, multiple average and median calculations, the high and low claim values and a suggested compensation range. The Index can also suggest a best settlement to avert protracted litigation and costly legal fees.
This level of reporting also captures some of Burnett’s own experiential insight. Working from a list of non-data considerations he uses in claim valuation, Dualboot built an algorithm to capture those insights. This means database subscribers can quickly valuate sexual abuse claims and also track the claim’s evolving value as it develops and more information is acquired. A user can also retain Burnett for an even more comprehensive and nuanced claim valuation factoring in additional, and sometimes more intangible, considerations such as when the case first arose, what institution is involved, whether the claim involves a particularly notorious abuser, or has a particularly zealous plaintiff’s attorney, among others.
Additionally, Dualboot enabled saved searches and gave subscribers the ability to contribute to the database. A user can, after completing a case, add the details in, and once validated, they will be added to the data available to the Index community. This means the database will continue to grow as clients use it.
“We are truly grateful for our partnership with Dualboot. They nurtured our vision of the Burnett Index beyond our expectations.” says Burnett.
