The quarterly publication of the International Legal Technology Association
Issue link: https://epubs.iltanet.org/i/34686
BEST PRACTICES A PRACTICE MADE PERFECT big firms are often the first to engage in new technologies such as cloud computing, small firms are not far behind, using powerful search and analysis tools to level the playing field on even the biggest cases. In fact, it might be small firms who lead the charge on redefining the practice of law as they are more nimble in adjusting to the changes required to survive in a highly competitive landscape — and more adept at capturing and retaining organizational knowledge along the way. TOWARD A BETTER FIRM — FOR CLIENTS AND LAWYERS The reality is that today’s cases demand increased cooperation in the form of “sharing of information” with other parties, not to mention the client’s desire to be directly engaged in the formulation and execution of the overall strategy. Firms that are driven to reinvent themselves will recognize that legal technology represents an opportunity to reinforce their value by creating knowledge- based relationships that go beyond the current transaction and address deeper organizational needs. While many firms do not have a clear strategy in place to manage technology as it relates to the practice of law, the readiness factor is increasing as a new generation of lawyers sees the benefits of technology in their own lives. Interim success will require the artful navigation of both the challenges and promises of all the tools in the marketplace, while holding the attention of busy practitioners who, once they get a glimpse of how they can improve the quality and breadth of their practice, hastily request “Can I get it on my iPad?”, to which the legal entrepreneurs will answer: “You will in 2020 — maybe even in 2012.” ILTA So, you were finally able to consolodate all of your firm’s documents... Have you been managing that well? WorkSite System Manager can help with that! Learn more about how you can govern Autonomy iManage WorkSite more effectively. Our knowledge, your imagination. Powerful Software. Jennifer Johnson is the Director of Professional Services for Commonwealth Legal, where she leads a team of consultants, project managers, case managers, trainers and product specialists. Her focus is on customizing and delivering practical solutions that empower law firms to optimize internal resources and manage their evidence in a defensible, cost-effective manner from case inception to trial. Jennifer has been consulting on the best practices for implementing legal technology solutions for 10 years, is certified in numerous industry- leading applications and has a certificate in project management. She can be reached at jjohnson@commonwealthlegal.com. www.rbrosolutions.com Peer to Peer the quarterly magazine of ILTA 17