A promise kept: Balance, Impact, Growth — ALA fires on all cylinders.
ALA started off on a high note. From Dr. Catherine Sanderson’s keynote on the Science of Happiness to “why do I have to pick just one at a time” breakout sessions that see working professionals as human beings (thank you ALA!), including topics like:
- It’s Not Just Semantics: Why Your Language Matters
- Improving Communication Through Microsoft Teams
- The Total Experience of Work
- The Mind, Body, and Soul of Self-Confidence
At the LeanLaw booth today, we had a full day and hit the ground running. One of the more interesting conversations we had was about the tension between the firm administration and the attorneys on how much to weigh the accounting when it comes to purchasing new software. Does it have to be mutually exclusive? (uh, no — come to booth 935)
Firm administrators also told us how difficult it was to run a back office when their accounting systems are essentially “offline,” meaning: it doesn’t talk to the bank or to payroll. Modern accounting software alleviates many of the issues that a closed off system creates.
Lastly, one administrator spoke about using QuickBooks Online on its own. This is most definitely LeanLaw’s sweet spot. Combined with LeanLaw, QBO can solve IOLTA trust administration as well as improve time tracking and attorney compensation tracking — among other reports.
Did you see that there is yoga at 6am tomorrow, Tuesday? Are you going? It’s early, but it’s tempting
Cyber Risk Management and Compliance: What Every Administrator Needs to Know – James Harrison
A discussion of the significant business risk of cybersecurity. Participants will learn about the growing scrutiny of data security and privacy practices from clients, regulators, and insurance providers, as well as the latest threats to law firms. Cyber risk management principles and a hands-on exercise to assess their firm’s current risk and compliance status — LeanLaw appreciates this sort of exercise. Don’t be like Mossack Fonseca!
Squeezing Business Value out of IT to Make Your Life Easier — Isidore Okoro
This session covers the outsourcing of IT and what to look for in an outsourcing company. Crucial!! Most likely, you were not trained as an IT consultant. Use your time wisely.
Participants can identify time-saving activities that IT teams can help with, explore the use of automation tools, and evaluate when to use outside services for additional IT expertise.
Performative vs. Authentic Allyship – David B. Sarnoff & Joy Stephens
Understanding the difference between performative and authentic behaviors in the context of diversity, equity, and inclusion can only create a more cohesive and energetic workplace. Effective communication impacts performative versus authentic behavior on recruiting, onboarding, inclusion, and retention. Don’t underestimate the power of this session.
Revenue and Resourcing Exposure – Russ Haskin
The challenges surrounding revenue growth in law firms and the impact on individuals within the firm can be measured with data. (See LeanLaw in Booth #935 for details.) Long-term firm sustainability, summarized industry challenges and reframed firm dynamics, discovered revenue exposure points with potential remedies, and illustrated successful approaches to succession, transition, and mentorship will all be discussed.
Meeting of the Minds: Medium Firm (31-99 attorneys) – Patricia Zulaica
Network and co-develop solutions to common challenges by leveraging shared experiences and collective knowledge. Best practices and topical issues within legal administration to be discussed — everyone is going to walk away with nuggets of wisdom. Don’t miss!
Meet you at the Fun & Games at the end of the Day?!
Rest up. Tomorrow will be awesome.
