Why change is essential for law firms
The key to successful tech implementation lies not just in the software itself, but in how your firm approaches its adoption and use, says Bill Hume, marketing executive at PracticeEvolve
As the legal industry continues to evolve, law firms are increasingly seeking ways to improve their efficiency and profitability.
One key area of focus for many firms is the selection of legal software. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right software for your needs. However, the key to successful legal software selection lies not just in the software itself, but in how your firm approaches its adoption and use.
PracticeEvolve, a leading provider of legal practice management software, recognises that the decision to implement new technology can be intimidating. Despite the many benefits of modern software, some firms still cling to outdated processes and fail to adapt to new technologies. They make the mistake of wanting the new system to do everything their old system did and the way it did it. In many cases, this reluctance to change is driven by a fear of the unknown, as well as a desire to maintain the status quo. However, this approach can hinder the adoption of new technology and limit its potential benefits. Instead, firms should acknowledge the need to adapt their internal processes to complement the advancement of technology.
To illustrate this point, imagine yourself choosing between a taxi and an Uber at an airport. Just a decade ago, the only option for getting a ride was to stand in a long line for a taxi. However, with the advent of Uber and other ride-sharing apps, people now have more convenient and efficient options for getting around. The process of getting a ride hasn’t changed, rather Uber have implemented new technology to make it more convenient to arrange a cab from anywhere, at any time.
In the same way, law firms must welcome legal tech that makes life more convenient. For example, if a firm has been using the same legacy software for years, it may be hesitant to switch to a new platform, even if the new platform offers significant advantages in terms of features, functionality, and user experience. However, this reluctance to change can be harmful to the firm’s bottom line. By failing to embrace new technology, firms may miss out on opportunities to improve their processes, streamline their operations, and reduce their costs.
To overcome this resistance to change, law firms must adopt a proactive approach to software selection. Rather than simply choosing a new software platform and expecting it to do everything its old platform did, firms should be open to exploring new ways of working made possible by the new solution. This may involve rethinking workflows, training staff on new features, and embracing new ways of working that take advantage of the software’s capabilities.
Of course, selecting the right legal software is still an important part of the process. Firms should evaluate available options by conducting a thorough analysis of the firm’s current processes and identifying areas where software could help to improve efficiency and productivity. Firms should also look for software platforms that are scalable, flexible, and can integrate with other systems they may be using.
Undoubtedly, legal software selection is an important process for law firms looking to stay competitive in a rapidly changing industry. However, the key to success lies not just in the software itself, but in how the firm approaches its adoption and use. By being open-minded and selecting a software partner that has their clients’ long-term interests at heart, law firms can fully leverage the benefits of modern legal software and improve their bottom line. So, the next time you find yourself using Uber, ask yourself – which provider can help our users be more productive and efficient?
