A recent Law.com article spotlighted a persistent issue in law firm innovation: partners themselves are often the biggest obstacle to technology adoption. While firm leaders increasingly recognize the need for digital transformation, entrenched resistance—particularly from senior partners—continues to delay critical upgrades.
For firms looking to bring in third-party vendors to modernize operations, here are five strategic steps to move forward despite internal hesitation.
Tie Technology to Business Value
Law firms don’t adopt tech for tech’s sake—they do it to drive results. Frame any new initiative around clear benefits like:
- Accelerated timelines for case processing
- Reduced administrative burden
- Enhanced client satisfaction
- Compliance and risk mitigation
Use client demands and competitive benchmarks to show how failing to act puts the firm at a disadvantage. Demonstrating ROI through data is more persuasive than abstract promises of innovation.
Start with a Pilot—Not a Full Rollout
Many tech rollouts fail because firms attempt a sweeping change before testing outcomes. A better approach:
- Select a single practice group or administrative function
- Define measurable goals (e.g., time saved, error reduction)
- Evaluate vendor support and user satisfaction
A successful pilot builds internal credibility and provides proof-of-concept before asking for broader buy-in.
Make Training and Adoption Part of the Culture
Technology isn’t a one-time rollout or silver bullet, it’s a tool help your team and requires the right mindset to realize its potential Invest in:
- Onboarding and role-specific training
- Incentives for adoption (e.g., time-saving metrics)
- Showcasing wins from early adopters to drive momentum
The goal is not just implementation—it’s integration into how the firm practices law moving forward.
Partner Resistance Isn’t the End—It’s a Starting Point
Resistance from firm partners isn’t insurmountable—it’s often rooted in risk awareness, tradition, lack of clarity, are a mix of all of these. By focusing on business value, involving the right voices, and delivering proof through small wins, firms can move confidently toward modernization.
If your firm is exploring how to work with a third-party vendor for case management, data analytics, or operational efficiency, Verus can help. With over two decades of experience supporting law firms through change, we provide the technology, people, and processes to support your modernization efforts.
Let’s Talk.
Reach out today to explore how Verus can help your firm move forward—strategically, securely, and successfully.
