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The interview is sometimes a dynamic process and sometimes a static process. Generally, a dynamic interview involves moving from one topic to another during the interview. Conversely, a static interview will focus on one topic or set of circumstances. For example, the status technique may be utilized when conducting an interview regarding a single incident, such as the one-time theft of merchandise, but would not be utilized when conducting an interview regarding multiple thefts over a period of time which involve different circumstances or methods of operation. The dynamic interview technique is utilized in situations involving several different fact situations. The dynamic technique can also be effective when interviewing hostile witnesses or suspects. An experienced interviewer will determine which technique applies in a given interview situation, sometimes utilizing both techniques in the same interview.

Often, interviews are conducted utilizing both dynamic and static methods. Care should be taken when utilizing both dynamic and static methods in the same interview, so as not to detract from the interview, confuse the interviewee or stop the flow of information.

When the interview is primarily concerned with a specific occurrence, incident or event, it is particularly important to skillfully apply appropriate interviewing techniques, as demonstrated in the example in Figure 1.

In this example, an investigator skilled in the use of dynamic and static interviewing techniques can maximize the quantity and value of information obtained from each witness. In addition to basic information, the investigator who applies these techniques can obtain the information shown in Table 1.

When interviewing witnesses to an incident or occurrence, an interviewer should avoid interrupting the mental images of the witness, thus risking the dilution, contamination or loss of the mental image or memory forever. A skilled investigator will know how and when to apply the status and dynamic techniques most effectively. For example, when the witness is asked to recount the circumstances and events leading up to the incident in question, (s)he should not be interrupted with questions about where the witness is employed.

A complete understanding of how to approach each witness is also crucial to the success of the interview process. In that regard, there is no substitute for preparation. Know as much as you can about the incident and about each witness before proceeding with the interviews. Know the specific objectives of the investigation, and prepare a structural outline. Whether or not the interviewer chooses to refer to the outline during the interview, (s)he has prepared mentally to exact the information of the highest quality and quantity the witness can offer.