Changing the technology changed the process. It can also change the law office in ways we didn't expect. Occasionally we are pleasantly surprised by the changes, which can range from reducing expenses for paper to increasing communication and collaboration among lawyers and across practice groups. Sometimes, though, the results can be costly, or even catastrophic. Word processing or database files don't convert completely or require substantial editing after they are converted.
Many essential documents have to be recreated or substantially revised.
The firm grossly underestimates training needs and costs. Staff spends as much as 20 perrcent of their time trying to learn functions and tasks as needed. Performance, accuracy, productivity and responsiveness worsen temporarily as people learn how to use new hardware or software. Some people give up and return to the old system. Lawyers and staff resist or try to circumvent new security or data management procedures.