Torys’ Blueprint for an Effective AI Pilot Program – It Mixes Innovation, Collaboration and Caution
In a legal landscape rapidly embracing artificial intelligence, Torys LLP has emerged as a leader in implementing AI pilot programs that balance innovation, collaboration, and caution. The firm, recipient of the 2024 LEAP Legal Software Award for Best Use of Technology in a Law Firm, has developed a blueprint for evaluating, piloting, and implementing new technology. At the heart of this approach is a people-first philosophy that prioritizes processes and problem-solving over quick fixes.
Sukesh Kamra, who leads Torys’ knowledge and innovation team, emphasizes that the key to successful AI adoption lies in fostering a culture of creativity and open-mindedness among lawyers. “We start by asking our people what problems they need to solve,” Kamra explains. This approach ensures that the firm addresses real challenges rather than chasing trends.
The process begins with a thorough needs assessment. Torys engages its legal professionals to identify pain points, drawing on past experiences and lessons learned. Once needs are clear, the firm evaluates whether an existing solution can be adapted or if an external vendor is required. Compliance is a critical consideration at this stage, with close collaboration between the firm’s risk management and information services teams to ensure all security and strategic requirements are met.
Next comes the pilot phase. Torys tests potential AI solutions internally, focusing on how well they integrate with existing workflows. Kamra notes that while many tools impress in demos, their practical application often falls short. The firm carefully evaluates whether the benefits of the AI solution justify its adoption, ensuring that any change in process is meaningful and impactful.
Jessica Lumiere, a senior lawyer in Torys’ Legal Services Centre in Halifax, underscores the importance of demonstrating tangible benefits to lawyers. “If we can show that an AI solution reduces non-billable hours or makes it easier to sell services, we’re more likely to gain buy-in,” she says. The firm’s strategy is to present AI as a tool that benefits individual lawyers, not just the organization.
Torys also leverages its tech-savvy team in Halifax to lead pilot programs. This allows the firm to refine tools before broader deployment, addressing potential issues early on. Additionally, Torys collaborates closely with clients, sharing insights from pilots and co-creating tailored solutions that extend the benefits of AI beyond the firm itself.
Currently, AI is deployed at Torys in two primary areas: document-intensive tasks like due diligence and contract analysis, and business productivity tools. While the firm is closely monitoring advancements in generative AI and large language models, it acknowledges that these technologies are still in their infancy.
In sum, Torys’ blueprint for AI pilot programs offers a thoughtful, collaborative approach that prioritizes user needs, compliance, and practical integration. By focusing on people and processes first, and leveraging its tech-forward team for initial testing, the firm has established a successful model for implementing AI in legal practice.
Torys’ AI Strategy: A Deep Dive into Implementation and Outcomes
Delving deeper into Torys’ approach, the firm’s AI strategy is marked by a meticulous focus on practical application and measurable outcomes. In document-intensive areas such as due diligence and contract analysis, AI has proven instrumental in streamlining processes. For instance, AI tools have significantly reduced the time spent on reviewing contracts, allowing lawyers to focus on higher-value tasks. This has not only enhanced efficiency but also improved accuracy, as AI can identify patterns and anomalies that might be overlooked in manual reviews.
The firm’s use of AI in business productivity tools has also yielded notable benefits. By automating routine tasks such as document formatting and data entry, lawyers have seen a reduction in non-billable hours. This shift has not only improved work-life balance but also enabled the firm to allocate more resources to strategic initiatives. Jessica Lumiere highlights that these productivity gains have been a key factor in gaining buy-in from lawyers, as the benefits are directly tangible and impactful on their daily workflows.
Torys’ tech-savvy team in Halifax plays a pivotal role in the pilot process. Their expertise in refining tools before broader deployment has been crucial in identifying and addressing potential issues early on. This approach ensures that when AI solutions are rolled out more widely, they are well-integrated into existing workflows and meet the practical needs of the legal team. The Halifax team’s involvement also fosters a culture of innovation, encouraging lawyers to embrace new technologies with confidence.
Collaboration with clients is another cornerstone of Torys’ AI strategy. By involving clients in the pilot process, the firm gains valuable insights that can be used to co-create tailored solutions. This collaborative approach not only strengthens client relationships but also ensures that the AI tools developed are aligned with the specific needs of the firm’s clients. For example, in one instance, Torys worked closely with a client to develop an AI-powered contract management system that significantly reduced the client’s operational costs.
Looking ahead, Torys is closely monitoring advancements in generative AI and large language models. While these technologies are still in their early stages, the firm recognizes their potential to transform legal practice further. Torys is actively exploring how these tools can be harnessed to enhance tasks such as legal research, document drafting, and predictive analytics. However, the firm is proceeding with caution, ensuring that any new technology meets stringent compliance and ethical standards before being adopted.
In summary, Torys’ AI strategy is a testament to the firm’s commitment to innovation and excellence. By focusing on practical implementation, collaboration, and measurable outcomes, the firm has established itself as a leader in the legal tech space. As AI continues to evolve, Torys is well-positioned to leverage these advancements to drive further efficiency, productivity, and value for both its lawyers and clients.
Conclusion
Torys’ approach to AI pilot programs exemplifies a balanced strategy that prioritizes innovation, collaboration, and caution. By focusing on a people-first philosophy, the firm ensures that technology adoption is both practical and beneficial. Their emphasis on addressing real challenges, fostering a culture of innovation, and measuring outcomes positions them as a leader in legal tech. As AI evolves, Torys’ strategic approach serves as a model for firms seeking to integrate technology effectively while maintaining high standards of compliance and ethics.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How does Torys ensure compliance when implementing AI tools?
- Torys ensures compliance by involving risk management and information services teams early in the process to meet all security and strategic requirements.
- What process does Torys use to select AI tools?
- Torys starts with a needs assessment, identifies pain points, and evaluates whether existing solutions can be adapted or if external vendors are needed.
- How does Torys handle resistance from lawyers to new AI tools?
- Torys gains buy-in by demonstrating tangible benefits, such as reducing non-billable hours and improving efficiency, showing direct impacts on lawyers’ workflows.
- How does Torys measure the success of AI pilot programs?
- Success is measured through improved efficiency, accuracy, and direct productivity gains that positively impact lawyers’ daily tasks and work-life balance.
- How does Torys involve clients in their AI strategy?
- Torys collaborates with clients during pilots, sharing insights and co-creating tailored solutions that meet specific client needs, enhancing client relationships and operational efficiency.
- How is Torys preparing for advancements in generative AI and large language models?
- Torys actively monitors these technologies, exploring their potential for tasks like legal research and document drafting, while ensuring they meet compliance and ethical standards before adoption.
