What is the function of "bates numbering" within Relativity?

Bates numbering serves as a systematic approach to uniquely identify and organize individual documents within a database, particularly in legal and litigation contexts. It assigns a sequential number to each document, making it easier to maintain a clear and accessible reference system. This numbering allows users to quickly locate and reference specific documents during reviews, depositions, and court proceedings, thereby enhancing efficiency and minimizing confusion.

Bates numbering is an established practice in the legal field, helping to ensure that all parties involved can accurately refer to the same document without ambiguity. By following this sequential system, users can maintain an organized workflow while managing large volumes of documents, which is often the case in legal cases that involve extensive discovery processes.

While the other options hint at various document management aspects, they are not accurate descriptions of what Bates numbering specifically accomplishes. For instance, document formatting preferences, contents, and classification by dates do not relate directly to the primary function of Bates numbering, which focuses on providing a unique identifier that aids in the retrieval and referencing of documents.