Dave Bloor

In an era where AI and digital transformation are revolutionising industries across the board, law firms face a critical juncture: adapt to the technological revolution or risk being left behind. 

Under the leadership of Dave Bloor, Director of Digital, Data and Technology, full-service law firm VWV is not only keeping up but setting the pace on how disruptive new technologies like AI can add customisation to clients whilst still being compliant.

A strategic approach to digital transformation

Dave, who joined VWV 12 months ago with extensive technology leadership experience from companies like Ford Motor Company and Kingfisher Group, emphasises a client-centric approach to digital innovation. 

"My vision behind the digital data technology function is to enable the business with intuitive, modern, agile and innovative collaboration tools and the support that's needed to excel in a market-leading law firm," he explains.

Operating across nine target sectors, VWV has established a dedicated product team working alongside their Business Development department to conduct targeted client listening exercises.

This approach ensures that technological solutions are tailored to specific client needs rather than applying a one-size-fits-all strategy.

"It's about ensuring that our data is accessible but it gives us greater insights into our client's expectations and needs and using that to allow us to make smarter decisions," Dave emphasises. 

Pioneering AI integration and service delivery

A significant milestone in VWV's digital journey is its strategic partnership with Robin AI. 

"It's really clear that Gen AI is going to be disruptive to the way that legal firms, indeed every industry, delivers their services," says Dave. 

Robin AI have partnered with VWV on the development of AI so that it can build their internal use of it and so they can wield it to meet specific client needs.

VWV wants to use these insights AI gives it to help revolutionise its client service delivery through portal technologies that enable self-service access to precedents and other legal resources. 

"We have wanted to share as much information with clients as possible so they can self-serve where they need to," Dave states. 

The firm is exploring innovative ways to leverage AI in client interactions, particularly in initial consultations, while maintaining the careful balance between automation and personalised service.

The partnership with Robin AI has proven particularly valuable in navigating the complexities of AI integration within the legal sector.

 "I think it's less about just the automation side of things with Gen AI," Dave explains. "Where I think it's about is more actually how knowledge is constructed and shared both within the firm but also with clients in a way which is naturally still upholding the standards and regulations that are required in providing legal services."

Future-proofing a full-service law firm

A standout initiative is VWV's training innovation programme, launched in the last six months. 

The programme places trainees at the forefront of reimagining legal service delivery, with a particular focus on Gen AI. "We've taken all our trainees and we've put them into teams; we've trained them in things like design thinking, project management, what's happening in legal regarding legal tech and why it's important," explains Dave. 

Looking ahead, VWV's technological strategy focuses on integrating no-code technologies and AI-powered knowledge sharing. The firm is particularly interested in extending its internal tools to support clients with in-house legal teams who may not have access to sophisticated legal tech tools.

"I think there are opportunities there for us to help them understand actually how we can work together and alleviate some of their challenges," Dave explains.

Additionally, VWV maintains a strong commitment to sustainable technology practices and the firm's approach to technology procurement reflects this commitment to sustainability and ethical considerations.

Through this comprehensive approach to digital transformation, VWV is not just adapting to technological change but actively shaping the future of legal service delivery. Their balanced strategy, combining technological innovation with strong client relationships and human expertise, serves as a model for how traditional law firms can thrive in an increasingly digital landscape.

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