Top tips for optimizing legal tech adoption

Legal tech adoption: Expert insights

This article offers invaluable insights about how to optimize legal tech adoption and offers valuable insights from Karen Tuschak, North American Client Success Lead at StructureFlow. With a career spanning 35 years involving collaborations with global and regional law firms, internal legal departments, and legal tech companies, Karens’ expertise in implementing and adopting legal technology is unparalleled.

Challenges of legal tech adoption

Optimizing legal tech adoption continues to be a significant challenge in today’s modern law firms. Attorneys, paralegals and staff have access to an ever-growing selection of Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) tools to use in their day-to-day; it’s understandable that there may be a feeling of “tech overload” at times.

When introducing new technology, the critical challenge facing innovation teams and firm management is how to drive successful uptake and adoption, creating a culture and environment where technology is embraced and its benefits resound firm-wide.

A standout success story in the Legal Tech space is StructureFlow. Its compelling design and user-friendly interface have resulted in swift uptake across some of the world’s most renowned law firms, such as Norton Rose Fulbright, Slaughter and May, Shearman & Sterling and O’Melveny.

Watch the NRF and Slaughter and May client success videos to learn about their StructureFlow experiences.

“Adoption can always be somewhat of a challenge when implementing new legal tech solutions, but we’ve seen a lot of lawyers speaking to each other and asking, ‘Are you using StructureFlow yet?’ And the adoption rate is even greater than we would normally expect.”

Eleanor White, Legal Technology and Innovation Manager, Shearman & Sterling

Since its launch, StructureFlow has welcomed over 8300 users. These users have created more than 28000 structure diagrams, of which 10000 were shared internally. Beyond the sophisticated yet intuitive platform that resonates with even the most tech-resistant attorneys, StructureFlow has excelled in providing exceptional adoption support.

Karen’s first advice emphasizes the need to balance procurement and decision-making processes with seamless integration into the organization’s operations. Ultimately, the extent and effectiveness of technology adoption take precedence over all else. Critical factors such as communication, change management, training and ongoing support warrant meticulous attention not only during technology implementation but also throughout its lifecycle. This approach guarantees smooth adoption by current and future members of the firm.

Technology adoption can be challenging, as the pace of technological change often surpasses human adoption speed. Many organizations grapple with keeping users updated on new functionalities being added at an unprecedented pace.

Karen’s top tips for optimizing tech adoption

Leadership

When leaders show enthusiasm for technology, it resonates throughout the organization, setting an inspiring pace.

• Spotlight on pioneers: Celebrating early adopters creates a ripple effect, fostering a welcoming atmosphere for others to follow suit.
• Time is critical: Transitioning to new technology requires balancing. Acknowledging the learning curve and allowing space for adjustment is crucial.

Communication

Users should have a clear grasp of the firm’s goals and the technology’s benefits.

• Client-driven adoption: Emphasize that clients now expect modern technological solutions. Adopting innovative technology can bolster client relationships and attract new business.
• A sneak peek: Offer glimpses of upcoming tech tools to build anticipation while still being grounded.
• Consistent check-ins: Support ongoing conversations about tech adoption through team meetings or internal newsletters.
• Change management strategies: Address resistance to change by employing proven techniques.

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“I’m thrilled with the success we’re seeing with StructureFlow – our lawyers have raced ahead and recently passed a major milestone of 1000 projects shared. Powerful features and little-to-no learning curve have made it incredibly easy for lawyers across the firm to collaborate and visualize their projects. StructureFlow is now an integral part of our tech workbench, enhancing the client and lawyer experience and driving efficiency.”

Greg Baker, Global Head of Practice Innovation at Linklaters

Technology champions

Enthusiastic tech champions can energize the team.

• Peer-to-peer insights: Internal guides training alongside tech partners can be relatable and reassuring.
• Cultivating engagement: Champion guidance sustains momentum, making tech a seamless part of the workflow.
• Iterative feedback: Insights from champions refine and optimize tech, keeping it relevant.

Training with purpose

Effective training builds user confidence, easing tech navigation without overwhelm.

• Segmented learning: Introduce concepts step-by-step for digestible learning.
• Tailored sessions: Provide ongoing training tailored to various roles within the firm. Distinct roles may require various levels and types of tech ability.
• Continual learning: Technology is continually evolving, so training should be an ongoing process to keep users updated with changes or new features, ensuring that the technology continues to be a beneficial tool to the organization.
• Onboarding: Ensure new members receive thorough vendor and champion-led introductions for a solid start.
• In-app support and training: In-app resources guide users through functionalities, troubleshooting, and best feature use.

“It’s been a hugely successful deployment for us, probably the most successful legal tech deployment that we have.”

Jane Stewart, Head of Knowledge and Innovation at Slaughter and May

Conclusion

By strategically emphasizing tech benefits and providing robust support, law firms can achieve smoother transitions and foster an innovation-embracing culture. This makes tech adoption a journey where every member feels informed, engaged, and inspired.