New scheme to help smaller firms bridge the technology gap

The Law Society of Scotland has launched a new scheme to help smaller law firms make better use of technology to benefit their businesses and clients.

The LawscotTech Bridge Builder scheme has been developed in conjunction with Hey Legal founder Ally Thomson in response to the Law Society’s survey of smaller firms completed earlier this year.

LawscotTech Bridge Builder will involve a tailored consultation process for each participating firm, helping them identify and make use of affordable and accessible technology solutions. Up to 40 smaller firms, with 39 solicitors or fewer, will be invited to participate in the initial intake.

Angus Maclauchlan, the Law Society of Scotland’s Head of Marketing and Member Services, said: “Technology has the potential to bring significant benefits to Scotland’s legal sector. We’ve developed this scheme with Ally Thomson based on member feedback, to help ensure those benefits are enjoyed by all firms and their clients.”

Ally Thomson, pictured left, said: “This scheme is designed to build a bridge between smaller firms and the experts who deeply understand technology. I’ll be helping identify products and solutions that will suit each business and its staff and clients.

“The right solutions can help firms keep clients happier, work more efficiently and liberate time for other tasks. This scheme is not about firms spending more money on technology, unless such investment puts their businesses into a stronger financial position overall.

“Smaller firms may feel that they’re at a disadvantage in relation to technology, but I believe the opposite is the case. They are more agile and able to identify and introduce technology more quickly rather than having products imposed from head office.”