A method is provided in one example and includes generating a query for a database for information stored in the database. The information relates to data discovered through a capture system. The method further includes generating an Online Analytical Processing (OLAP) element to represent information received from the query. A rule based on the OLAP element is generated and the rule affects data management for one or more documents that satisfy the rule. In more specific embodiments, the method further includes generating a capture rule that defines items the capture system should capture. The method also includes generating a discovery rule that defines objects the capture system should register. In still other embodiments, the method includes developing a policy based on the rule, where the policy identifies how one or more documents are permitted to traverse a network.