A Centralized Data Repository Provides a Single Source of Truth

According to LawVu’s Sarah Barker, the foundational element for legal ops’ success in using AI is a centralized data repository that provides a single source of truth. This repository is a critical component of an AI adoption strategy and can capture all legal information from daily workflows, including intake, matters, contracts, legal spend, and policies.

 As corporate legal departments increasingly adopt AI-powered technology, the focus has shifted from acquiring tools to strategically deploying them. Fragmented systems such as emails, spreadsheets, or individual point solutions like contract lifecycle management systems often result in data silos that limit AI’s effectiveness. A centralized data repository can eliminate these silos by consolidating data, making it easier to manage, search, and apply AI efficiently. 

Not only does a single source of truth ensure the effectiveness of AI, but AI can be used to build the data repository, improve workflows with unified data, and deliver deeper insights from complex datasets. However, to maximize AI’s value, legal teams must first identify and centralize operational data, such as time spent on tasks, and substantive data, such as standard contract edits or legal playbooks.

Barker urges teams to move away from scattered storage systems and either upgrade to comprehensive platforms or consolidate existing point solutions. The ideal approach is to adopt legal technology with embedded AI, as these tools ensure seamless integration, enhanced security, and greater user adoption. Rather than bolting on AI separately, embedded solutions utilize the unified dataset to deliver faster, more accurate, and impactful results.

Legal teams ready to embrace AI must first invest in strong data foundations. A centralized data repository transforms AI from a theoretical benefit into a practical efficiency and strategic insight driver.