GC Technology Wish List
With thanks to Dennis Kennedy who posted about this article on Between Lawyers, I would be remiss if I didn't highlight the article by two inhouse lawyers in Legal Technology. The Article is simply called "GC Tech Wish List For 2006." The list is short, but important. As we move into 2006, the authors state that " corporate counsel (and general counsel in particular) will increasingly look to technology to meet demands for faster and more cost-effective legal work." The list:
1. Faster Communication." When every teenager has instant electronic access to two dozen friends, how long should a GC wait to hear back from her outside counsel? Even a brief acknowledgment that a message has been received is reassuring."
I find it hard to believe that this is a technology issue as much as it is a mind issue. It is so easy to be responsive these days that failure to be responsive is a matter of intent or foolishness.
2. Extranets." Law firms increasingly are providing extranets for clients with password-authorized Internet access to certain information on the firm's Web site. Law firm extranets permit outside lawyers to collaborate with clients and in-house counsel on tasks such as research, document drafting, discovery review and developing litigation strategy. They also can be set up to allow clients access to review documents, billing data, or the progress of on-going matters."
3. Billing Software. " How long will it be before all lawyers undertake e-billing?"
'nuff said.
4. Document Management Software.
5. Electronic Data Discovery Software. "One of the most pressing problems facing corporate counsel is compliance with electronic data discovery requests in litigation, regulatory or administrative actions. The days are long gone when discovery requests could be met by pulling some files, photocopying some documents and Bates-stamping into the evening. The volume of electronic records grows every year, and courts are more and more exacting and demanding in the EDD requirements they impose."
I posted about this precise issue here. Lawyers focused on their clients' needs need to be ahead of the curve on this issue.
6. Document Assembly/Contract Process Software. For a terrific discussion of this topic, see Dennis Kennedy's post here.
This wish list should be target list for law firms.