London Law Expo 2018: Delivering on the tech promise

At the recent London Law Expo 2018, LexisNexis hosted a speed panel session, entitled: Delivering on the Tech Promise. The panel comprising Ruth Ward, Allen & Overy; Mike Giles, Fieldfisher; and Daren Ingles, LexisNexis Enterprise; examined the challenges of implementing new technology, drawing on their individual experiences of rolling out new systems. It was an insightful discussion as panellists meditated on their individual experiences of rolling out new systems providing their top tips on how to avoid common pitfalls.

Switching tech systems can present a myriad of challenges for law firms. Often, many of these challenges derive from forcing a change in mindset. Therefore, change management must be a key component in the installation process. As Ruth Ward, Head of Knowledge & Collaboration Technologies at Allen & Overy, attested: “Lawyers are innately hesitant and risk averse when it comes to change, and this is an accepted mindset of the legal space.”

In a recent survey, of the lawyers and law students panelled the majority agreed that although more change will happen, the profession is not equipped for change. So, while decisions makers must be mindful of carrying users along with them in the process of change, alongside it, they must try to also build a culture of continual improvement. This is vital in developing a body of staff who is receptive to change, and who can adapt to new processes. Hence, part of this shift in mindset means that lawyers must also be able to anticipate change. While it sounds obvious, it’s important that staff are ready for technology changes and do not expect new technology to function in the same way as old technology. In a new technology implementation, “change” must be at the heart of related conversations. As Ruth advised: “Put big change at the beginning of the project, as part of the question –  what ar