Another AI Demo? Why Watching Isn’t the Same as Progress
AI is everywhere right now, and for law firms it feels like every week there’s another vendor demo in the diary. On the surface, this can feel like progress: you’re staying up to date, learning what’s possible, and keeping an eye on new solutions that could benefit your firm.
But here’s the reality: watching yet another demo isn’t the same as making progress. In fact, relying on demos as your main way of moving forward often leads to wasted time, poor decisions, and failed projects.
Why Firms Book Endless AI Demos
Law firms often say: “We don’t know what we don’t know.”
That’s why demos feel like the logical first step. They showcase what’s out there, give you access to features you may not have seen before, and create a sense of exploration.
The problem is that demos are designed to sell. Vendors will highlight the best features, show polished dashboards, and make their system look like the perfect fit. But without a clear understanding of your firm’s requirements, it’s impossible to tell if what you’re seeing really meets your needs.
This is how many firms end up making expensive mistakes.
Why Demos Don’t Deliver Change
Technology projects don’t fail because the software doesn’t exist. They fail because implementation is mishandled.
The system isn’t configured to fit the firm’s processes.
People aren’t properly engaged or trained.
Quality controls aren’t built into the rollout.
Leadership doesn’t have the time or experience to manage adoption.
The result? What looked like a game-changing solution during the demo quickly becomes shelfware, or worse, a system that disrupts workflows, damages morale, and increases risk.
We’ve seen this happen not just with AI, but with major case management and document management system projects. The pattern is always the same: a decision made too quickly after demos, with no clear requirements, followed by implementation failure.
The Right Way to Move Forward with AI
If you see a product that reduces write-offs, streamlines admin, or improves efficiency, the answer isn’t just to buy it. The real question is: how do you adopt and onboard it safely, in a way that delivers real value?
That means:
Defining requirements before you even speak to vendors.
Running a structured pilot in one department or practice area.
Engaging people early and giving them the confidence to use the new tool.
Maintaining quality and compliance while introducing new processes.
Supporting adoption with ongoing training and monitoring.
This structured approach is the difference between “we tried AI, but it didn’t stick” and “AI has transformed how we work.”
How We Help Boutique Law Firms
Boutique law firms in particular face a challenge. They’re under pressure from clients, employees, and competitors to modernise, but often lack the internal leadership, time, or resources to safely deliver change.
That’s where we step in. Our services include:
Independent IT Leadership – Acting as a fractional IT Director or CTO, giving firms senior-level oversight without the cost of a permanent hire.
Systems, Software & Vendor Selection – Helping firms control the process, avoid beauty parades, and choose the right solution based on real requirements.
AI & Emerging Tech Strategy – Developing and implementing a phased plan for AI adoption, from pilots to wider rollout.
We don’t just stop at advice, we ensure projects are delivered, adopted, and embedded successfully.
Don’t Just Watch – Implement
AI is not like other technology projects. It’s fast-moving, highly hyped, and full of both opportunity and risk. Watching another demo might feel like progress, but unless you have a clear strategy and implementation plan, it won’t move your firm forward.
If you’re genuinely looking to make AI work for your firm, the next step isn’t another demo, it’s creating a strategy, defining requirements, and planning adoption.
That’s where we can help. Visit our website to arrange an introductory call. We’ll explore where you are now, discuss your firm’s goals, and help you shape a practical plan that ensures your next step with AI is the right one.