The Business of Law now available

The Business of Law 2009, authored by Ron Pol and Ashley Balls, with contributions from David Maister and Professor Stephen Mayson, provides an in-depth analysis of the trends affecting the legal sector in New Zealand. I believe this report will not only provoke debate about the shape and future of the legal industry in New Zealand, but also stimulate better business practice in the legal profession generally. This is a 'must read' for anyone operating in the legal sector in New Zealand. To order your copy, click here.

Time to innovate

These are exciting times, for lawyers and law firms. Yes, exciting. Perhaps not the first word that comes to mind for many managing partners at the moment, given the downturn in business and the consequential squeeze on law firm profits. Yet I do believe that this slowdown is a blessing in disguise for many firms of all sizes and in all locations, providing them with the impetus and the incentive to really think differently about their businesses and to make lasting changes so that they can emerge from this downturn stronger, leaner and more effective than before...(Read more here).

What Susan Boyle Can Teach Us

The meteoric 'success' of Susan Boyle, the Scottish 47 year old spinster who was 'discovered' on talent show, 'Britain's Got Talent' last week is a heartwarming story indeed. From anonymity to global media sensation in just 5 days.

For me anyway, the episode teaches us three lessons:
1. Talent is right under your nose if you go looking for it;
2. You may be surprised by who has the talent;
3. The internet has the power to change things overnight; Susan's clip has had 25 million hits on You Tube in just a week!

Congratulations Susan on breaking the stereotypical mould.