Digital White Papers

13 WWW.ILTANET.ORG | ILTA WHITE PAPER POTPOURRI Keeping Innovation Strategies On Track Across Global Cultural Lines Culture's Effect on Innovation Mastering the complexities of "diplomatic relations" can be overwhelming. Focus on creating an environment that: » Encourages input at all levels » Limits punishment of failure » Embraces and capitalizes on differences rather than avoiding them An outdated culture hinders innovation; a forward-thinking one will nourish it. Real, continuing innovation comes from a shared, top-down vision as the result of a deeply ingrained culture of innovation. If firms do not recognize that a culture of innovation is integral to their own successful adoption of innovation, they will fail to engage other regions in developing successful innovation initiatives. Moving Forward with Innovation Some firms are actively engaging in innovation to service their clients. Technology enables them to listen to their clients' needs and paves the way for more sophisticated business and legal solutions. This strategy leads to greater potential revenue and creates "stickiness" between the client and the firm, building stronger long-term relationships. Profitability is important in geing support for innovation strategies within law firms. When times are good, firms are more likely to invest in innovation. Linking innovation to firm profitability is short-sighted, however, as it misses the advantages derived from a continual investment in innovation. In a challenging economic climate, investing in innovation can give firms a solid leg up in advancing forward-thinking goals and agendas while other firms play it safe and fall behind, realizing it much later when recovery is more difficult. The past several years have magnified the value of innovation in the legal profession. Firms are bringing in innovative thinkers and cultivating, funding and rewarding innovative thinking to help them stand out as valuable business partners and solution providers for clients. Allowing cultural differences to enhance, rather than hinder, your global innovation brings greater reward for all involved. ILTA Biggest Takeaways on Driving Innovation Across Cultures JULIE WHITFIELD Julie Whitfield is the Chief Information Officer at Gadens Lawyers. A leader within the information technology space, she has over 20 years of experience across a broad range of industries and geographical locations. Julie specializes in identifying company pain points and developing innovative solutions that enable growth and optimize business processes. Her transformational approach to leadership has enabled her to build energetic teams with excellent technical skills that successfully execute highly professional, customer-oriented, future-focused IT strategies. Contact her at jwhitfield@ nsw.gadens.com.au.

• Cover