The word ‘automation’ in legal has been around for years — synonymous with productivity and efficiency gains. However, its use has been in the context of standalone document automation tools or solutions servicing the business of law. More commonly, automation has been applied to simple, linear processes and tasks within legal practice.
Legal work is often complex; it often requires human input, expertise and judgement. Consequently, a limited number of workflows are automated for complete processes within transactional or high-value use cases. Smaller or isolated parts of a larger process are often automated or enhanced with workflow tools — but with a narrower set of outcomes or objectives.
So what is the pinkie promise of workflow and process automation? Let’s start at the beginning, with workflow automation 101.
Workflow automation is an approach aimed at enabling the seamless flow of tasks, documents and information, across work-related activities, all performed independently in accordance with defined business rules and logic.
A workflow is essentially a sequence of activities needed to reach an outcome, driven by data. Modern technology allows for the enrichment of those activities, checklists, tasks and processes by automating parts of the procedure, while retaining human oversight and involvement.
It’s critical to note that, while technology enables process and workflow automation, it isn’t a silver bullet
Identifying opportunities to apply workflow automation to involves spotting areas where there is waste, poor productivity or unstructured processes.
This includes mapping the ‘as-is process’ (the current state of the process), encompassing both human and technological interactions, the systems involved and specifying the rules and logic that govern how those tasks should be done, when and by whom. This will inform the ‘to-be process’, which will then be implemented to deliver the outcomes and interactions along with the predefined business rules and logic.
It’s critical to note that, while technology enables process and workflow automation, it isn’t a silver bullet. Organisations, regardless of size have to understand the necessary skills required and acknowledge that any form of automation represents change — which can be challenging.
That said, it’s encouraging to see greater focus on process improvement and data projects among law firms. In the ever-evolving landscape of legal practice, the promise of automation is ushering in a new era — with the potential to deliver greater efficiency, reduced costs and improved productivity for law firms.
Embracing automation translates to a paradigm shift towards data centricity — a key driver of success in today’s legal landscape, not just for workflow automation. Leveraging data-driven solutions can lead to an increase in productivity for law firms, allowing them to deliver outcomes for their clients and make informed decisions based on a comprehensive understanding of their workflows.
Where are you on this journey?