Results from The American Lawyer’s 2023 midlevel survey indicated that midlevel associates at Biglaw firms are less than impressed with the state of technology within their respective companies. Key frustrations included slow computers, outdated software, and subpar document management systems, measures that appear incongruent with the record profits their firms boast. Significant decline in technology training was another significant source of discontent among midlevel associates, with only 62% of respondents indicating their firms offered such training, down from 67% in the previous year. Reference Article
A common thread echoed by the associates was that the technological inadequacies drastically reduced efficiency and adversely affected the quality of service provided to clients. A majority of technology complaints were concentrated around a handful of law firms. Skadden, Alston & Bird, Dechert, Morrison & Foerster, and WilmerHale emerged as the entities that drew ire for maintaining outdated and inefficient tech infrastructures.
However, it wasn’t all gloomy; some firms emerged as winners when it came to their technological environment. Drawing from the midlevel associates’ rankings, companies like O’Melveny & Myers, McDermott Will & Emery, and Morgan Lewis, were among the top ten recognised for their robust technology infrastructures. For the full list, click here.
The survey results pose an opportunity for introspection for the law firms that have underperformed. Companies must translate their profitable standing into comprehensive improvements in their tech infrastructure and functionality, provision of updated software, and regular technical skills training for associates, to ensure maximum efficiency and improved client services.
It cannot be overstated that the current technological dissatisfaction among midlevel associates could potentially precipitate a larger talent retention issue. That being said, whether these firms take the grievances to heart and invest in necessary changes or choose to negate employee discontent, will provide a compelling narrative to follow in the coming months.