Navigating the pitfalls of software selection in law firms

The Problem:

Law firms often find themselves at a crossroads when selecting new software solutions, particularly when promised seamless, automated systems that seem too good to be true. This issue is especially prevalent among firms specialising in commercial disputes and litigation.

Take, for instance, a situation where a law firm was promised an automated solution that would deliver outcomes with minimal input. The salesperson’s demonstration showcased the software's simplicity and efficiency, making it seem like an ideal fit. However, the reality was far from what was promised.

The firm entered into a costly agreement, paying £10K per year for a three-year software license, plus an initial setup fee of £6K. Six months in, the software had yet to deliver the promised results. It became apparent that the necessary setup would actually cost around £21K, not the £6K initially quoted. This discrepancy led to significant delays and frustration.

The Gap:

This scenario highlights a common issue in the legal tech landscape: the gap between sales promises and actual product capabilities. Law firms often end up spending valuable time and resources trying to resolve these issues, which can lead to disputes and the need for expert intervention.

What to do?

The key to avoiding such pitfalls lies in a thorough understanding of a firm’s specific needs and expectations before committing to a software solution. Engaging with vendors to verify that their products can meet these needs is crucial. This involves a detailed evaluation of the software's capabilities against the firm's requirements.

In one real-life example, the firm, after realising the software could not meet their needs, sought an alternative solution. Leveraging industry contacts and market knowledge, they identified a more suitable option that better matched their needs. This alternative not only enhanced training and capability within the firm but also proved to be more cost-effective, avoiding the hefty recurring license fees.

This case underscores the importance of due diligence and expert advice in software selection. By thoroughly assessing needs and verifying vendor claims, law firms can avoid costly mistakes and ensure their technology investments truly support their business goals.

If you’d like to discuss any of the topics or insights highlighted in this post, please visit the contact page to schedule a call.