Digital transformation driven by adaptability and legal tech

In this edition of Summer Perspectives, we talk to Peter van Dam, Director of Digitization at Simonsen Vogt Wiig and initiator of TechTorget, about digitization and the establishment of a Nordic forum for knowledge sharing in the legal sector.

‍

Youhave held the role of CDO at Simonsen Vogt Wiig for almost 10 years. How far have you come with your digital transformation since 2014, and what has had the greatest impact so far?

We have achieved significant progress, but we also recognize that there is still a lot of work to be done. Although it can be challenging to see progress in digitization when working with IT on a daily basis, a lot has happened since 2014. We have undergone an extensive digital transformation and are now completely cloud-based, with around 100 applications in the cloud, up from around 30 on-prem applications in 2014. While email and Word are still key tools, lawyers now have access to a wide range of applications, including self-developed apps, visual tools for presenting case documents and financial status, as well as apps for use in court.

‍

What are your focus and investment areas within digitalization in the company in the future?

Our main focus going forward will be related to the use of AI by lawyers, with particular emphasis on how it can be used to the benefit of our clients. At the same time, it is important for us to further develop and improve solutions that are not AI-based, especially in the area of document production, an area we see that has the potential for significant improvement.

‍

In recent years, a number of digital tools have been developed to simplify the working day for lawyers. Some tools are tailored to solve specific problems, while others offer a broader set of tools. Have you had more success implementing broader tools or more specialized tools?

We've had the most success with specialized tools that are tailored to specific legal disciplines. This has allowed us to pilot different solutions and gradually find out which tools work best, without causing noise for the lawyers.

‍

What does the legal sector need to achieve a holistic digital transformation?

It's crucial to focus on technology solutions that are tailored to specific use cases and processes that actually streamline lawyers' work. Technology alone is not sufficient; what really determines whether an application is adopted is how well it supports lawyers' needs and makes their work easier and more efficient. Achieving this requires a willingness to change, thorough training and active engagement from the lawyers themselves.

‍

In addition to your role as CDO at SVW, you are the initiator behind TechTorget, which was arranged for the first time in the fall of 2019. What is the purpose of TechTorget, and how far do you think TechTorget will have come in five years?

The purpose of TechTorget is to increase awareness and knowledge of IT and technology among lawyers and legal professionals. We offer a broad and engaging program with mingling, booth visits, tips & tricks sessions, courses with educational credits, presentations, workshops and case studies. In five years, I envision that TechTorget will develop into an established knowledge forum for the legal sector in Norway.

‍

As TechTorget has grown in Norway, you have recently launched a collaboration with Copenhagen Legal Tech and DI Rådgiverne to organize the Legaltech & AI event. Is the long-term goal for TechTorget to become an initiative with a European reach?

"Yes, we are now working towards creating a holistic Nordic perspective, which we hope will strengthen our position and create an important arena for legal tech in the Nordic countries. This is important in order to stand strong against the larger legal markets such as the UK and the US. We've already planned a major event in Copenhagen on October 3 this year, and are also looking at possibilities for an event in Stockholm next year.

‍

The South or Norway?

When we came to Norway as a family, it was mostly Norwegian holidays with fjords and mountains, but now we like to go to the Netherlands where we have a sea cabin 🌊

‍

Hiking or boating?

Definitely hiking, both summer and winter 🏔️

‍

Shellfish or barbecue?

Shellfish and fish - preferably on the grill 🦐