The quarterly publication of the International Legal Technology Association
Issue link: https://epubs.iltanet.org/i/271291
WWW.ILTANET.ORG 51 CREATE, INNOVATE, TRAIN Trainers have an opportunity today that hasn't truly been there in the past. We have the chance to deliver value to internal and external clients with efficiency. By building relationships and engaging lawyers, we can help determine their efficiency needs and desires. We can then craft learning and support in ways that are meaningful, relevant and timely to them. This is our opportunity to start over. To create. To innovate. We asked our experts: Will lawyers change to be more efficient with technology? HOW THEY SEE IT IVAN HEMMANS Yes, they will change because market forces will make it necessary. However, they'll have less available time to do their learning in big chunks and will need quick access to relevant answers when they need them. CURT MONTAGUE It remains to be seen whether lawyers will become more efficient with technology. Change tends to occur when people are forced to change. People often live by the mantra, "if it isn't broken, don't fix it." If client pressures increase and the level of service provided by the firm is diminished, lawyers will be forced to change. Efficiency seems an oxymoron in an industry that is based on the billable hour, but clients are becoming more savvy and watching their own bottom lines. A firm that shows efficiency and superb work product will most likely gain more business and be in a favorable light for the next matter. In addition, firms that start running matters using a project management approach will demand more efficiency. PAMELA HART Lawyers will absolutely change their workflows to be more efficient. The recent technology competency audit conducted by D. Casey Flaherty from Kia Motors put a spotlight on the cost of using technology inefficiently in law firms. Many clients and lawyers have taken notice and are looking closely at attorney upskilling. JASON MILLIGAN Yes and no. Workflows involve numerous people in a variety of roles, so establishing change is difficult. In larger firms, where many attorneys/practice groups work in silos, establishing workflows for the common good is challenging. For instance, if the workflow involves using a particular technology in order for the process to proceed, it only takes one non-conformist to trip it up. Only one thing will force their hand into change: client demands. As AFAs and other client requirements come into play, attorneys will have no choice but to modify their workflows. — JOIN US FOR — ILTA's 37th Annual Educational Conference "Imagine" is the one of the most powerful words in the English language. It elicits images, ideas and creativity. When we bring together ILTA's community, the collective power of imagination will take us – as professionals and organizations – to new heights. Imagine the possibilities! ILTA 2014: Imagine will include over 200 peer-developed educational sessions and the opportunity to have face-to-face conversations with hundreds of people who are faced with your challenges. AUGUST 17-21, 2014 GAYLORD OPRYLAND, NASHVILLE conference.iltanet .org