This is the 1st article in a 6-part series on the new IILPM Competency Framework and Assessment Methodology for Legal Project Managers. The topics in this series are: Multiple Points of Entry; Knowledge Areas; Identifying Gaps In Competency; Using an Assessment Tool for Diagnostic and Development Opportunities; International Applicability
Introduction (Part 1 of 6)
Legal project management (LPM) offers methods to provide a structured planning and execution process for legal matters and other legal-related projects that are well aligned to meeting client expectations and support the commercial sustainability of law practices. The growth and acceptance of an LPM approach requires guiding standards and the professionalization of its practitioners. The legal project management discipline requires a common vocabulary for hiring, career development, sustainability as a career path and skill, retention and continued growth and evolution to define the modern lawyer’s base knowledge and skills. A competency model offers a basis on which these goals may be achieved.
We have developed a competency model to provide a vehicle to test the knowledge and skills of an individual against a well-developed set of industry assessment criteria. The model identifies experience and knowledge gaps that can used to create a personalised professional development and career plan. An accompanying assessment tool encompasses the breadth of the role quickly provides useful insights.
I am proud to have participated with a group that developed a competency assessment tool for the legal project manager role. Its purpose was to provide a useful assessment method to compare practitioner’s current knowledge and skills against a criterion that represents the breadth of expertise required of a legal project practitioner. Its rigour leverages insights and experience from the IILPM’s education entities in 13 countries, combining a panoramic perspective of law firms, consultants, legal departments, legal operations professionals, and project management experts.
Here is an article that describes our work. Or follow along in this 6-part series to learn more.
