How Legal Ops Professionals Are Leveraging Data Intelligence

In an article on the JD Supra website, Carl Morrison examined the findings from recent surveys of senior legal ops professionals to find out how these professionals are leveraging legal data intelligence. He discussed how they turn to data-driven strategies to enhance efficiency and align with organizational goals. 

Morrison noted that legal ops professionals can strategically use legal data intelligence to analyze data across various verticals of the legal department. This data-driven approach streamlines processes establishes predictable cost structures, enhances resource management, and optimizes workflows. In addition, the integration of legal data intelligence can transform legal departments into strategic business units, aligning with broader organizational goals and demonstrating the legal department’s value and worth. 

Challenges remain in real-time decision-making, with 74% of those surveyed indicating insufficient technological support for timely insights. Additionally, nearly half of respondents lack a deep understanding of their department’s data, limiting strategic decision-making. Regular data reviews and the establishment of key performance indicators and key risk indicators are suggested as essential steps for improvement.

Although 90% of respondents use centralized data repositories like enterprise legal management, 11% lack such systems. Moreover, despite the availability of centralized data systems, 63% still rely on manual analysis, signaling a need for automation and technological integration, including AI-driven tools.

The surveys reveal that while many legal departments consider themselves mature, there is significant room for improvement. Addressing inefficiencies and embracing data-driven strategies can enhance operational excellence, protect revenue, and align legal operations with broader organizational goals. By leveraging these strategies, legal departments can evolve into strategic business units, driving value and success for their organizations.