How we work

We support SME Law Firms' use of technology for maximum benefit

On a flexible and cost effective basis

Process is key to the success of what we do

Not as a dull, formulaic, prescriptive way of working but as a clear guide to doing things in the right order. It’s easy to jump ahead to look at new systems and ultimately end up non the wiser, but definitely time poorer, about the direction to take. The answer might lay in your existing technology, or you may indeed need a new system, but by working with an experienced guiding hand it means that no technology investment will be wasted.

We believe expertise plus accountability equals results

HOW WE WORK

Understanding your strategy, direction, and bottlenecks

We develop a plan. From running a project to coaching someone within the firm, there are many options to suit your individual circumstances. A successful project always starts correctly; we understand the strategy and direction of the firm, we talk to key stakeholders, and we spend time at the coal-face. Speaking with end-users helps us build a complete picture of the practice or departmental issues. This is a critical part of the change management plan that is often forgotton. Staff are given time to explain their frustrations and then to hear how we will work with them to fix these issues – it’s crucial for the adoption of new technologies and to develop more efficient ways of working.

Requirements first - no beauty parades!

The investigatory stage allows us to build a comprehensive and robust list of requirements. Then and only then do we look to your existing IT and new potential solutions. It is only our time, not yours, that is invested in the initial search and selection. Valuable practice time is not frittered away on software beauty parades that add no value. When we do invite you to review a software shortlist, you can be assured that it has earned its place and merits serious assessment.

A structured process is key

Keeping practice involvement to the ‘sharp end’ of the selection process avoids stakeholders being distracted and drained by wave after wave of vendor pitches that don’t necessarily give you the answers or certainty you’re looking for. Bringing a level of discipline to the review also prevents a common misstep, which is feeling like they have to do something rather than nothing. A rushed choice based on slick sales demonstrations do not often deliver.

Sometimes it’s not even a case of having to buy ‘new’ but utilising what you already have more effectively. We unpick the bottlenecks and frustrations with current processes, review the options to fix them, starting with what you have in place today. Transforming a poor investment into one that delivers consistent returns, engages users, and increases productivity and profitability.

Making it happen

We follow through and continue to work with any new or existing supplier to make those identified business benefits a reality. Recommended actions can falter without this continued focus and extra resource at this key stage. We have all seen those worthy projects that everyone is ‘fully supportive of’ discussed at Partner meeting after Partner meeting that unfortunately never seem to happen.

This is the benefit of the project-based Technology Director model. Access to an extended team with the focus and knowledge just when you need it.

Many SME law firms need someone with the experience and ability to “take care” of the Technology projects and advise on the right solutions. Our clients now focus on their clients, strategy, and generating fees.