Welcome to issue 8, which features three firms shortlisted in the 2008 Legal Technology Awards – Allen & Overy, Brodies and Bond Pearce – and two winners: Halliwells won City/National team of the year and Shoosmiths won awards in two categories.
First we focus on compliance. The anti-money laundering regulations that came into force in December 2007 and other requirements are leading firms of all sizes to purchase or develop systems and applications that manage risk and save time by automating key processes. This important trend is reflected in several case studies. Damian Blackburn describes the recent matter inception project at Davenport Lyons. Jo Eates explains how PinPoint’s e-discovery product drives effective litigation support at Allen & Overy, particularly in relation to high-volume matters. David Coates describes Bond Pearce’s innovative work with the Interwoven system – a project that stood out from the crowd at Interwoven’s Gear Up conference last November. This brings me neatly to another key theme – collaboration between different groups of stakeholders.
Legal IT teams are working closely with specialist providers to create innovative solutions, moving away from the ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach. At Channel Islands firm Carey Olsen, Stuart Bush’s strategy is underpinned by strong relationships with a number of top providers. Damien Behan, who recently took over the reins at Brodies LLP, highlights the importance of getting to know internal customers too and choosing the right applications to best meet their needs. At Halliwells’ futuristic office, the personalised desktop even extends to lifts and coffee machines – IT certainly gets everywhere! Of course a creative approach to development requires solid technical skills. At Shoosmiths, David Bason enrolled his entire team on ITIL training, which clearly paid off in terms of both quality and recognition, not least at the Legal Technology Awards.
Mike Burton at Cripps Harries Hall focuses on another group of stakeholders. PPRN, a brand new online peer network, is designed to build working relationships and encourage referrals between firms in the South East. It is also looking beyond the legal profession. As the Legal Services Act broadens the scope of the industry increasing opportunities and competition, support services – including IT – play a key role in enhancing client service, developing business and building brands. Issue 9 will therefore focus on CRM and will be published in advance of the Legal Marketing Awards. Nominations for these prestigious awards need to be sent to Jeremy Hill by 7 March. It was great to meet so many of you at the Legal Technology Awards. Do keep the comments and case studies flowing – I’m always looking for firms and individuals to feature in these pages. If you would like share your experiences with LTJ in a case study or interview, offer feedback or suggest themes for future issues, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Joanna Goodman