The learning curve can seem steep, but the benefits of mastering LPMS far outweigh the initial challenges.
Legal practice management software (LPMS), which incorporates sophisticated features to streamline legal processes and improve efficiency, is here to stay. This is made apparent by the rapid growth of the legal tech market, which was valued at USD 23.45 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow at an annual rate of 9.1% from 2023 to 2030.
But, as with most things, there’s a learning curve to adopting legal practice management software. The complexity of the technology, previous tech experience, the quality of training and support, the time dedicated to learning, and a firm’s adaptability all factor into this learning curve.
How to Reduce the LPMS Learning Curve
The learning curve can seem steep, but the benefits of mastering LPMS far outweigh the initial challenges. Every moment spent learning a new system is an investment into a more streamlined, productive firm.
With that in mind, here are some of our favorite strategies to help with change management:
Prioritize Training
Allocating sufficient time for training, including formal sessions, self-study, and hands-on practice, is crucial. Formal training sessions led by experts can provide a structured learning environment where attorneys can ask questions and receive guidance. Self-study, such as reading user manuals or watching video tutorials, allows attorneys to learn at their own pace and focus on areas most relevant to their needs. Hands-on practice is essential for cementing understanding and building muscle memory. If a firm is implementing a new billing system, scheduling dedicated training sessions where the team can learn how to input time entries, generate invoices, and process payments is recommended. Repeated practice of these tasks helps the team become comfortable with the system.
Leverage Available Resources
Utilize all resources, such as online tutorials, webinars, and customer support. Many legal tech providers offer a wealth of learning materials designed to help users get up to speed quickly. Encourage everyone to take advantage of these resources to supplement formal training. Online tutorials and webinars can provide step-by-step guidance on specific features or workflows. Customer support can be invaluable when you encounter challenges or have questions. CARET Legal offers comprehensive training and 24/7 support where our team can walk you through every feature and function of the software, from the basics to more advanced capabilities. Don’t hesitate to reach out to our support team for assistance.
Start Small
Starting with basic features and gradually progressing to more advanced ones is a practical approach. Attempting to learn everything at once can be overwhelming and counterproductive. Instead, attorneys should focus on mastering the core functions that are most essential to their daily work. This step-by-step approach builds confidence and understanding. For instance, they could consider starting by learning how to create a new case. Once they’re comfortable with that, tasks like setting up automated workflows or generating reports. As they gain proficiency, they can explore more advanced features that can further optimize their processes.
Attempting to learn everything at once can be overwhelming and counterproductive. Instead, attorneys should focus on mastering the core functions that are most essential to their daily work.
Apply Immediately
The most effective way to solidify new skills is by putting them into practice. Immediately after learning a new skill or feature, attorneys should seek opportunities to apply it in their daily work. This approach reinforces learning and allows them to experience the practical benefits of the technology first-hand. For instance, after learning how to use document automation features, they should start creating their legal documents using the software right away. This hands-on experience will help them identify any gaps in their understanding and boost their confidence to use the technology more extensively.
Encourage Questions
Make sure everyone knows not to hesitate to ask for help if they’re stuck. Learning new technology can be challenging, and it’s common to encounter obstacles or confusion. When this happens, struggling in silence should not be an option. They should reach out to tech support, colleagues who are more experienced with the software, or online forums dedicated to the technology. Often, others have faced the same challenges and can provide advice or walk them through the solution. Asking for help can save time and frustration, and it can also deepen their understanding of the system.
Embrace Mistakes
Mistakes are opportunities to learn and improve. When learning new technology, errors will inevitably be made along the way. View these mistakes as valuable learning experiences rather than setbacks. Don’t expect anyone to become an expert overnight. Instead, focus on making steady progress and celebrating small victories. With time and practice, it will become second nature.
Improve Employee Engagement and Client Satisfaction
With the right legal technology, your firm can attract employees, reduce turnover and generate more business.
Why It’s Worth It
Working through the learning curve of new tech usage is a worthwhile investment. It leads to more efficient operations, higher productivity, improved client service, and ultimately, a more successful and profitable law practice. As the firm becomes more comfortable with legal practice management software, it will become an integral part of daily operations, making work easier and more effective.
Schedule a demo with CARET Legal to start embracing new tech usage today!
