As law firms shift from merely exploring artificial intelligence (AI) to fully implementing it within their operations, a deep understanding of data and internal processes has become essential. Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney PC recognized this early and chose to collaborate with industry leaders such as NetDocuments and 3545 Consulting to integrate AI-powered tools into their daily workflows.
Through this partnership, the firm adopted NetDocuments’ PatternBuilder and App Builder (powered by PatternBuilder MAX) to automate document creation, enhance workflow efficiency, and improve overall productivity. These tools now play a vital role in Buchanan’s operations, marking a significant milestone in the firm’s technological evolution.
Turning Strategy into Action
In 2023, Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney PC initiated a five-year strategic plan to embrace AI, automation, and data analytics as core components of its business strategy. Under the leadership of Chief Information Officer Scott Angelo, the firm established “centers of excellence” to unify these three pillars. Angelo emphasized that combining AI, automation, and analytics would allow the firm to deliver comprehensive, data-driven solutions tailored to client needs.
This proactive approach earned Buchanan national recognition, being named among the “Best of the Best for Generative AI” in BTI’s 2024 Leading Edge Law Firms survey. The award underscored Buchanan’s ability to turn innovation into practical results. By aligning advanced technology with client service goals, the firm positioned itself as a leader in legal technology transformation.
Leveraging AI to Streamline Workflows
The NetDocuments App Builder became a cornerstone of Buchanan’s innovation strategy. Operating within the firm’s secure document management system, it enables AI-powered automation without compromising client confidentiality. The tool’s low-code design allows for fast adoption, making AI integration accessible to lawyers and staff alike.
To maximize its use, Buchanan partnered with 3545 Consulting, leveraging their expertise in legal technology to develop custom solutions. Together, they modernized key processes, reduced inefficiencies, and ensured that every new workflow maintained the firm’s rigorous data security standards.
The results were significant:
-
Over 1,500 hours saved annually for paralegals and assistants (valued at roughly $80,000)
-
Improved accuracy and risk mitigation through standardized automation
-
Enhanced consistency across more than 10,000 court filings per year
Key applications included a Litigation Master Caption File App, which automates jurisdiction-specific captions for filings, and a Durable Power of Attorney App, which reduced document drafting time from hours to minutes. Both tools demonstrated measurable time savings and consistent output quality.
Building an AI-Driven Framework
Buchanan’s implementation followed a clear process: identifying automation opportunities, defining requirements, customizing pre-built templates, embedding AI features, testing with end users, and tracking success through measurable data. This structured approach ensured that every AI initiative delivered tangible value.
“The apps available in ndMAX make it easy to iterate,” said Jared Gullbergh, Director of Practice Solutions and Information Governance at Buchanan. “We can adapt quickly to meet new needs, which is critical in a fast-changing environment.”
Setting the Standard for Legal Innovation
By combining internal leadership with external expertise, Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney has created a scalable framework for AI adoption that balances innovation with client trust. Their partnership with NetDocuments and 3545 Consulting not only optimized their current operations but also laid the foundation for long-term success.
As Gullbergh put it, “We’ve only scratched the surface of what’s possible. With NetDocuments’ AI capabilities, we’re not just keeping up — we’re leading.”
Buchanan’s experience provides a valuable model for law firms seeking to transition from AI experimentation to full-scale implementation. Their strategy — grounded in collaboration, measurable outcomes, and responsible innovation — demonstrates how technology can transform legal practice while preserving the human judgment and integrity that define the profession.