When it comes to implementing new technology in a law firm, the partnership between the firm and the technology vendor is crucial for success. But what makes for a successful partnership? In a recent forum, Karen Tuschak and Karen Anderson, both legal technology experts, discussed the best practices for vendors working with law firms and what firms value most in these partnerships.

Here’s a summary of what we’ll cover in this post:

• Firms value true partnerships with technology vendors, where there is a collaboration and open communication about product development and roadmap.
• Vendors should be responsive to all team members within a law firm and listen to their feedback on how the technology is being used.
• A long-term relationship between the firm and vendor is more beneficial than a quick sale.

When working with third-party partners, law firms need to ensure that they are being listened to and included in the development of the technology they are using. Karen Tuschak, owner of Spider Silk Solutions, stresses the importance of true partnerships between firms and vendors, where there is open communication and collaboration on product development and roadmaps.

Watch the full interview, Collaboration and Communication: Best Practices for Legal Technology Partnerships

“Firms are putting innovation into their strategic plans and if they’re doing that, they need to be partnering with the technology partners,” Karen said. “The technology partners really need to make sure that they’re listening to their clients and they’re open about their roadmap.”

Karen Anderson, Manager of the Corporate Services Department at Blakes, Cassels & Graydon LLP, agrees that listening to the firm’s needs and being responsive to all team members is crucial for a successful partnership. “I think if they’re listening to all of the team members and responsive to all of the team member does, it doesn’t necessarily have to be me that’s contacting somebody. If anybody on the team can contact the vendor orpartner at any time and get a response and help, then I think that’s very valuable,” she said.

Both Karens emphasized that a long-term relationship between the firm and vendor is more beneficial than a quick sale. “Working with them hopefully for years to come is important. Companies want their software to be sticky so that the law firms continue to use it and it’s all built on the relationships,” Karen Tuschak said.

In a legal technology landscape that is constantly evolving, effective partnerships between law firms and vendors are essential for the successful implementation and continued use of new technology. By prioritizing communication and collaboration, vendors can ensure that they are providing the best possible service to their clients and meeting their needs.