The implementation phase begins with the selection of the Legal Tech provider, and consists of three stages: (i) pilot test; (ii) training; and (iii) launch. Process changes and the incorporation of technological tools into the forms of work require planning and providing the necessary resources to support users (legal team members or others) during the transition process.
The following are some specific aspects that need to be taken into account:
– At first, it’s essential to build and invest in a change management strategy This is key to a return on investment.
– Involve stakeholders CELITERAL0000TOKENfrom the company (members of the legal team, computer and financial department) and, if possible, get a sponsor of the management team that supports the project.
– Establish a diverse group of users to be part of the project, especially in the initial stages of implementation, such as pilot tests. Users should belong to different levels of the organisation, with different functions and degrees of responsibility. Do not underestimate the need to achieve the feedback from potential users in early stages of implementation.
– Get the pilot test user group involved in development reviews where they can use the tool and suggest changes before launch. It is also important to ensure that the Legal Tech provider implements these changes obtained in the feedback. Even if these are seemingly minor issues such as the number of clicks to generate a contract or experience with the tool interface, they can become pitfalls that affect the satisfaction of users and therefore the adoption of the tool.
– Technology cannot solve process problems. It is necessary to do work to ensure that the workflows are aligned with the operating tool It should be borne in mind that customizing tools is often higher and, at times, can be more cost-effective, changing a work process to adapt it to the tool’s operation, rather than customizing technology.
– Develop a comprehensive training programme for users. It is most convenient to provide in-person training, and record it, so that it is accessible to users afterwards. Creating videos and quick reference guides for functions is key for users to easily consult them once technical training has been provided.
– Perform the launch of new tools in phases, either by jurisdiction, by type of work, by team. This allows you to address the problems and incorporate the improvements of the pilot before a global implementation.
– Finally, it is advisable to add a continuous review system to the implementation plan.
The most common obstacles in the implementation phase
Probably the most critical point in digitization projects is the human element, as it plays a crucial role in the subsequent adoption of solutions, whether it is a renewal of work processes or the adoption of new tools. Only if the legal team understands the project and endorses the use of the new configuration, can the desired result be achieved. Whether this is time saving, cost saving or productivity. The resistance of internal actors can cause the whole project to fail. Therefore, it is of the utmost importance to have the support of senior management from the beginning and to pay attention to the human aspects of the project generating confidence.
initially published in thetechnolawgist
