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Why generative AI requires cultural change in law firms
Why generative AI requires cultural change in law firms
Generative AI is already disrupting the workplace across many sectors and the legal profession has been identified as an area that will be significantly impacted at an early stage of this new wave of technology.
Many law firms are understandably cautious about the potential risks of the integration of such new technology into the workplace with data security and the accuracy of the data produced by AI being the principal objections to adoption. However, cautiousness can risk stifling competitiveness, growth and service quality and so at this time of rapid change, it’s critical for firms to find an approach that balances embracing AI’s potential whilst ensuring that staff use these technologies safely and effectively.
The common perception of AI
AI often has a negative perception attached to it with one common belief being that it is an incredibly complex tool to use and requires significant technical expertise. However, the beauty of generative AI lies in its ability to interact with humans in natural language, making it more accessible than challenging software interfaces. In fact, this can reduce barriers to adoption of new software features as little or no training is required.
The lack of accuracy or consistency of AI is often stated as a challenge to the legal sector and there are a number of well quoted cases where false citations were generated by the technology. It is true that AI can sometimes generate inaccurate or misleading information, known as "hallucinations”, however it is often due to misuse or a lack of understanding of how to use the technology. By providing proper training and guidance, law firms can mitigate these risks and ensure that AI is used responsibly.
Finally, we can’t have a discussion around the impact of AI without discussing the perceived threat that it will take over certain job roles in the profession. This threat is of course real and already starting to materialise, although those most at risk are the people and firms who are most resistant to its adoption. To counter this negativity, firms should focus on the productivity benefits from adopting this technology. In fact, when harnessed correctly, AI can enable growth of the business potentially creating more roles. There are already well documented success stories in the legal sector where this is the case.
Limiting risk through awareness
One approach employed by firms to limit risk from AI is to impose strict restrictions on its use in organisations. However, this can be counterproductive and drive those staff wishing to use these tools into using personal devices and inappropriate software, creating confidentiality and data protection non-compliance.
Rather than imposing draconian restrictions, a better approach for law firms should be to cultivate a culture of AI awareness. This involves educating employees about the benefits and risks of AI, providing training on how to use AI tools effectively, and establishing guidelines for safe and responsible AI usage. Better still, firms would benefit from encouraging their staff to use generative AI in their personal lives and providing training and inspiration for them to do so. The personal benefits achieved from this will likely translate into an enthusiasm to use this technology in the workplace.
It is essential to balance the need for innovation with the imperative to protect sensitive client data. While AI can significantly boost productivity, it's crucial to implement robust security measures to safeguard confidential information. By striking the right balance between flexibility and control, law firms can harness the power of AI while minimizing potential risks.
Attracting new talent
Another key consideration for a culture that embraces AI is the next generation of trainees law firms will be aiming to attract. The current generation of students are using generative AI on a daily basis and will expect to be able to use these tools in their day to day work life when entering the professional world resulting in firms who are AI laggards losing leading talent to more progressive organisations.
Firms should in fact be actively aiming to attract those law graduates with advanced AI skills to ensure they are equipped with the capability to compete in the digitally enabled economy. Generative AI expertise is rapidly becoming sought after and a skills gap is already emerging. Graduates represent one of the best opportunities to recruit AI competence during this period of rapid adoption.
Building an AI aware culture
It is already evident that generative AI is leading to a generational change in the workplace and the automation of the service economy will have a massive impact on the way legal services are provided and consumed. By starting with developing a responsible, AI aware culture and focusing on training, clear guidelines with a spirit of experimentation, law firms can both mitigate risks and ensure they do not fall behind in AI adoption. Ignoring AI is not an option; instead, law firms must embrace it, with the right safeguards in place, to thrive in the future of legal practice.
