Burges Salmon launches new Digital Enablement Programme

Independent UK law firm Burges Salmon announces the launch of its multidimensional Digital Enablement Programme. At its core, the Programme brings together and leverages GenAI, data, processes and technology, together with internal expertise, to enhance the firm’s client service delivery offering and enable it to continuously improve and adapt for the future.

Burges Salmon’s Digital Enablement Programme comprises a series of projects centred around the following three areas:

1. GenAI: Encompassing and extending its existing GenAI strategy, Burges Salmon has been actively engaged in various initiatives including the phased deployment of Copilot for 365 initially to AI champions, and now more widely across the firm. With a discovery first approach to rollout, a core focus has been on change and engagement alongside more traditional training to support its people – members of the firm will be speaking about this approach at Microsoft’s Ignite conference in Chicago. The firm’s strategic and exploratory approach to GenAI also includes the evaluation of other GenAI technologies and their potential to deliver better outcomes for its clients and its people. As part of this approach, the firm is pleased to confirm a partnership with Wexler, a litigation focused solution with AI-powered fact extraction and document creation, with the firm’s Dispute Resolution team utilising the technology for chronologies and fact analysis. To support lawyers with research, in the summer the firm also rolled out Search & Summarize Practical Law (previously Practical Law AI).
2. Data: Creating a firm-wide data culture and governance approach that promotes value and instils the integrity, accuracy, ownership, management, integration, security, and quality of data across the firm. This initiative builds upon its existing data strategy, bringing a renewed focus and enhanced framework; enabling the firm in the long-term to harness the full potential of its data to inform decision-making and enhance client service delivery.
3. Optimisation: Identifying, assessing, and prioritising opportunities to optimise the firm’s internal processes to enhance organisational efficiency. This optimisation will lead to faster turnaround times and more streamlined processes, directly benefiting clients through quicker and more efficient service delivery.

To support its Digital Enablement Programme, and in particular the GenAI strategy, the firm has developed and rolled out a variety of training initiatives including as part of its annual B-Innovative Week event. From understanding GenAI, to how to utilise technologies being rolled out, through to compulsory training on the responsible use of GenAI, people across the firm are able to access a variety of training through the firm’s Digital Academy. The firm takes data security, confidentiality and its regulatory obligations seriously, and has a responsible and ethical use policy in place. This collaborative and coordinated approach is led primarily by the firm’s Innovation & Technology teams but is driven by a variety of teams across the firm, including Learning & Development, Knowledge & Information Services and Risk. This ensures that all teams are aligned and working together to achieve the best possible outcomes. 

Burges Salmon’s Managing Partner, Roger Bull, says: “We are committed to embedding innovative thinking together with leveraging cutting-edge technologies to enhance our service delivery and operational efficiency. Our Digital Enablement Programme is a testament to this commitment. By integrating GenAI technologies and fostering a robust data culture, we are preparing for the future and also ensuring that we continue to deliver exceptional service to our clients. This initiative underscores our continued commitment to innovation and excellence.”

Emma Sorrell, Burges Salmon’s Innovation Manager, adds: “Developing and launching the Digital Enablement Programme has been a collaborative and coordinated effort from a variety of people within the firm. It’s not just about AI; it encompasses a broader scope, focusing on how we can harness the potential of data-driven insights, technology and innovative approaches. In a landscape filled with excitement and promise, our goal is to carve out a path that aligns strategically with our firm and clients, and ultimately delivers meaningful outcomes.”

Eddie Twemlow, Burges Salmon’s Head of Technology and Operations, comments: “Digital Enablement is an integral part of our technology strategy and central to our client service delivery model. At Microsoft Ignite, we will discuss how this is driving improvements to service delivery. Our Digital Enablement Programme ensures that we not only make the right technology choices, but that we align our data and culture to ensure our clients feel the benefit of these investments.”