Future-proofing your law firm: tech, data and the commercial mindset

For SME law firms, staying ahead isn’t just about keeping up with change — it’s about anticipating it. Whether that means using technology more effectively, understanding  data to inform decisions, or nurturing a stronger commercial mindset, firms that take a proactive approach are better placed to thrive long term. 
To explore what this looks like in practice, Osprey Approach has drawn together insights from recent guests on its Empowering Law Firm Leaders podcast, including Graham Moore, Peter Ambrose, CJ Anderson, and Chris Bull. Together, they share practical advice on how firms can use tech, data, and strategic thinking to strengthen performance and build a sustainable future.

Building a tech-first foundation

Peter Ambrose, founder and CEO of The Partnership, believes that success begins with a mindset shift towards technology. “You have to be brave enough to try, fail, and learn quickly,” he says. “Firms that treat technology as an enabler rather than an obstacle create real competitive advantage.”

Peter explains that a tech-first approach isn’t just about automation — it’s about empowering teams to deliver better client outcomes. With the right case management and practice management systems in place, firms can reduce errors, streamline processes, and give employees the tools to perform at their best.

Turning data into direction

Graham Moore, founder of Katchr, highlights that effective decision-making depends on meaningful data. “Most firms are sitting on a goldmine of information,” he says, “but too often it’s not being used to drive commercial decisions.”

He emphasises that firms should move beyond simple reporting to focus on predictive insights — the kind of data that helps leaders identify opportunities, spot risks early, and plan with confidence.

CJ Anderson, founder of Iron Carrot, agrees. “Data needs to work for you,” she explains. “When firms create a clear data strategy — setting ownership, governance, and clear goals — they unlock visibility across departments, which improves both performance and profitability.”

Together, Graham and CJ underline that firms who invest in their data foundations will be the ones equipped to adapt as the market evolves.

Preparing for the future of law

Chris Bull, consultant at Edge International, focuses on what the law firm of tomorrow will look like. “The firms that succeed will be those that think more like businesses and less like institutions,” he says. “That means building flexible teams, embracing innovation, and aligning every decision with the firm’s strategic purpose.”

He advises leaders to treat transformation as continuous — not a one-off project. “Future-proofing isn’t about adopting a single piece of tech or process,” he explains. “It’s about creating a culture that’s curious, data-aware, and commercially confident.”

A blueprint for the modern firm

Taken together, these insights reveal a clear roadmap for firms that want to build resilience and long-term success:

• Adopt a tech-first mindset: empower people with the right tools and systems.
• Use data strategically: turn information into insights that guide performance.
• Stay adaptable: view transformation as an ongoing process, not a one-time task.

By combining technology, data, and a commercial mindset, SME law firms can make smarter decisions, deliver better client experiences, and build stronger, more resilient businesses.

For more insights from expert leaders, visit Osprey Approach’s Empowering Law Firm Leaders series.