How do you turn legal data into a modern platform that powers analytics, self-service, and AI across one of the nation’s most innovative law firms?
In this episode, Lisa Mayo Haynes, Senior Director of Technology Innovation, and Ian Lopez, Manager of Technology and Innovative Solutions at Ballard Spahr LLP, share how the firm modernized its data warehouse into a lakehouse that unites structured and unstructured data: powering real-time dashboards, predictive insights, and generative AI tools like Ask Ellis and Ballard X-Ray. They outline how Ballard Spahr built a trusted data foundation that drives adoption and measurable impact through accurate, effectively-dated data, secure access, and a shift from reactive to predictive analytics.
Lisa and Ian also discuss how their team built data confidence across the firm: teaching data literacy, simplifying access, and scaling early wins into lasting transformation. From major time savings to AI tools that free attorneys for higher-value work, they show how Ballard Spahr is turning information into a future-ready, trusted data ecosystem.
Timestamps:
(00:00) Intro
(00:32) Meet the innovators: Lisa Mayo Haynes and Ian Lopez
(02:30) Lisa's journey: From developer to director of technology innovation
(03:52) Ian's path: Discovering the power of analytics
(05:43) The importance of accurate data
(08:46) Transitioning to a modern data platform
(10:23) Cross-departmental collaboration and challenges
(12:22) Predictive analytics and client value
(22:12) Lessons learned and future directions
(25:09) Building data confidence in partnerships
(27:42) Implementing effective data governance
(30:01) Proud achievements in AI and data integration
(36:17) Adoption metrics and ROI
(41:58) Future of AI and data in legal firms
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