The quarterly publication of the International Legal Technology Association
Issue link: https://epubs.iltanet.org/i/271291
PEER TO PEER: THE QUARTERLY MAGA ZINE OF ILTA 50 We asked our experts: What have you found most effective for engaging lawyers in learning? HOW THEY SEE IT IVAN HEMMANS A lawyer's available time is decreasing, so providing shorter, more targeted learning opportunities is key. Specific needs can be met with shorter instructor-led training or targeted e-learning on topics that strengthen core competencies. The most effective way to engage the lawyer is to discuss topics the lawyer is interested in, usually one-on-one. A small group setting with a specific goal in mind over the course of 15 to 30 minutes also works well. And if there's food, all the better. PAMELA HART Traditional means of training lawyers and staff are becoming increasingly inefficient in today's workplace. With fixed fee arrangements and clients demanding more for less, lawyers and staff don't have the time to sit in long classroom sessions. Gen X and Gen Y associates come on board with different learning styles and needs, hence the need for a shift in our training strategies By applying a practical approach, IT professionals can help lawyers change their workflows to become more efficient. Keep it REAL (relevant, efficient, available and lean). JASON MILLIGAN If attorneys don't feel or understand the benefit of what they are learning, it will always be an uphill battle. Training needs to offer them a solution to a nagging issue that's personal to them and save them time in their everyday tasks. Concierge Support for Lawyers The best way to provide internal client service to lawyers is through concierge-level support. The knowledge worker of today doesn't need to know how to do everything as long as he can find how to do something. Make information and knowledge available 24/7 and accessible via multiple modes. Have live helpdesk support available at all hours. Whether insourced or outsourced, be sure these support professionals have a good understanding of not only the technology in use, but also the bigger picture of how a lawyer works and what he or she is trying to accomplish. When this isn't possible, be sure to provide self-service access to information that is succinct, easy to find, accessible from any device and relevant to the kinds of work lawyers do. CURT MONTAGUE I have taken a slow approach to engaging lawyers in learning. Creating relationships and trust between the attorneys and the training team is the first way to make inroads. Providing brief, valuable information that can be consumed during lunch or as part of a meeting agenda seems to be effective. Giving attorneys a good reason to attend training is another technique. You need to articulate how the training relates to how they work and explain how it will improve their processes.