In this episode, we sit down with Catherine Bernard and Tim Krzywisseau from Mayer Brown to delve into their contributions to Chapter 13: “Process Improvement and Process Mapping” in Knowledge Management & Innovation - A Manual for Law Firms and Other Legal Services Organizations from Practising Law Institute (PLI)’s Press. They explore the evolution of legal process improvement (LPI) and knowledge management (KM) within the firm, emphasizing the use of design thinking to enhance legal processes. Catherine and Tim also offer insights from their experiences, showcasing practical KM tools that streamline litigation and boost efficiency. Tune in to discover how these innovations are reshaping the legal landscape.

In this episode, Catherine and Tim share insights on how to:

• Implement process improvement techniques in law firms
• Apply Lean Six Sigma methodologies in litigation
• Improve real-life legal issues with process and design thinking
• Curate and organize data for successful AI implementation
• Utilize process maps for internal efficiency and client relationships

Key takeaways: 

• Law firms need general roadmaps to guide clients through litigation, despite less granularity compared to other areas like foreclosures.
• Informed decision-making in litigation hinges on mapping legal processes, highlighting the need for legal expertise.
• Prioritize creating thorough process maps for legal matters, recognizing the long-term value they bring to firm efficiency.
• Collaboration with knowledge management departments in law firms fosters innovation in legal tech and enhances client services.

About the guest, Catherine Bernard and Tim Krzywisseau:

Catherine is the Knowledge Management Counsel at Mayer Brown LLP, specializing in US Litigation & Dispute Resolution. With vast litigation experience, she advises the practice and engages in pro bono work, serving on the Amica Center for Immigrant Rights board and speaking at industry conferences.

Tim is the Knowledge Operations Manager at Mayer Brown LLP, overseeing knowledge processes and teams. He has experience in global process improvements, consulting, analytics, and project management. Tim holds J.D./MBA, PMP, CBAP, CMI Level 5 certifications, and Lean and Six Sigma Black Belts.

“One point we make in the book is that Lean Six Sigma is just a mechanism for getting from A to Z. They yield tools that you can use to examine and improve processes, and it doesn't matter what you are trying to improve.” – Catherine Bernard

“From my experience, having worked in process and legal, there is often a misconception about the investment and the return that you should expect.” – Tim Krzywisseau

Connect with Catherine and Tim:

Website: https://www.mayerbrown.com

Knowledge Management & Innovation: A Manual for Law Firms and Other Legal Services Organizations: https://www.pli.edu/catalog/publications/treatise/knowledge-management--innovation-a-manual-for-law-firms-and-other-legal-services-organizations?p=340124&tCode=BRH3_PODST 

Catherine’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherineabernard

Connect with Ted Theodoropoulos:

Website: https://getinfodash.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tedtheo

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@getinfodash/podcasts