Selecting and Retaining a Technology Consultant The fast paced changes in the information technology revolution can be overwhelming and intimidating. Technology selections may determine the success or failure of your firm. It sounds dramatic, but we only need to look to the recent past and look at mainframes, Wang and Apple computers systems, to make us tread cautiously through this revolution. Failure to make the right selections can mean that hardware and software purchases may have to be discarded. It is imperative that important technology changes, such as the Internet and Intranets, be incorporated into your present and future planning efforts. Your firm does not have to be on the bleeding edge of these technology efforts, but should be on the cutting edge to maintain your competitive edge. That is why I strongly suggest that a “consultant” should always be part of your technology planning efforts. However, competent, knowledgeable legal consultants are difficult to locate. They should be independent and not tied financially or through other forms of remuneration to specific hardware or software vendors. All to often, I have heard “independent” consultants tout the utility of specific software packages while they were obtaining a commission or other form of incentive from the software company to sell their products. Also, be aware of vendors offering “unbiased” advice as to the ideal setup for your law office. Many vendors do not understand the “business” of the legal profession and provide solutions tailored for other types of businesses. Many firms “appoint” a partner, associate or staff person, such as a paralegal, to be the “computer person” in their organization. Whenever technology questions, decisions or research arise, this person handles them on behalf of the firm. Unfortunately, the world of technology is moving at such a rapid rate in all areas that it is difficult if not impossible for the in-house person to stay abreast of the latest technology advancements and then choose the right solution for the firm. You also need to realize that an attorney and other professional legal staff’s mission are to provide legal services to their client. It is not to know how to best connect to the Internet or which document assembly package is the best. There is a tradeoff for using the services of your professional staff to research and determine the best technology solution for your firm. Always consider that a lawyer or paralegal bills at a certain amount. Will the in-house person selected arrive at an accurate technology answer within a short time? Will it actually cost more for the in-house person to understand the technology then to bring in a consultant? The final decision can be done in-house, but do not replace the function of a technology consultant with a skilled legal advocate. A legal consultant should be used when considering a:
A legal technology consultant’s job is to understand the hardware and software applications used in the legal industry. There are several reasons that one should retain the services of a reasonably priced competent legal technology consultant. They are able to:
Selecting a Consultant The process of selecting a consultant should focus on a number of important factors. A consultant should:
Agreement with consultant In order to prevent an unpleasant experience, consider using the following contractual clauses and methods to ensure a favorable result:
Consultants can provide tremendous value for the money and can guide you through the information revolution. Take time in your selection process. They can save a tremendous amount of aggravation and free you to practice law and not technology. |