The easiest way to offer this to users is to provide them with a library of technical resources, workbooks, and tutorials. Many firms have found intranets ideal for this purpose. An intranet training program places answers a few mouse clicks away. Follow-up training workshops are also helpful, especially for tackling technology issues that arise after the implementation. Additional training also can be handled on a voluntary basis.
Some firms promote brown bag user groups that meet periodically during lunch.
Power users usually lead these groups by discussing how to maximize the firm's existing technology. Whatever the approach, the most important lesson to remember is to tailor training to a law firm's particular needs and idiosyncrasies. By experimenting with a variety of techniques, a firm can create a training program that will transform computers from glorified typewriters to critical tools in delivering cost-effective legal services to clients. Copyright 2000, Los Angeles Lawyer Magazine . All Rights Reserved.