Ballard Spahr Client Value and Innovation Program Recognized by Financial Times

Ballard Spahr’s Client Value and Innovation Program was recognized for excellence in the Financial Times’ North America Innovative Lawyers Awards—including being ranked second in the nation for most innovative law firms for the business of law.

The awards are based on in-depth research—including hundreds of client interviews—into the services, methods, and products developed by law firms and in-house legal teams. Firms are ranked based on the innovation and value they bring to the practice of law and the delivery of legal services.

Ballard Spahr’s ranking as No. 2 in North America for innovation in the Business of Law places the firm above many of the largest firms in the world. The firm received the highest possible score in the use of technology and data to provide value. The Financial Times highlighted a firm initiative to analyze client data to improve relationships and ensure that projects are completed and targets hit, writing: “Access to more data about clients is driving better performance.”

Ballard Spahr was commended for innovation in diversity and inclusion. The Financial Times called out the firm’s Diversity and Inclusion Dashboard, which measures diversity statistics across the firm and by practice area to pinpoint areas requiring increased investment.

Melissa Prince, the firm’s Chief Client Value and Innovation Officer, was among five individuals shortlisted as a top law firm intrapreneur—an innovative solution developer who drives client value.

Ballard Spahr’s Client Value and Innovation Program is a comprehensive approach to service that leverages value-based pricing, proactive and efficient matter management, and customized technology solutions to meet specific client needs. The team works with Ballard Spahr attorneys to develop and continuously improve the firm’s proprietary technology suite, Ballard360. Its recently launched blog, Ballard360 Insider, covers next-level developments and best practices for clients, attorneys, and other professionals in the legal operations and innovation space.

The Financial Times rankings are the latest in a series of national honors for the Client Value and Innovation Program. The program has garnered national recognition in BTI's Legal Innovation and Technology Outlook Report, which ranked Ballard Spahr among the country’s most innovative law firms based on its strategic use of technology, its focus on emerging areas of practice, and its innovative approach to client issues.

“Ballard Spahr lawyers are focused on achieving results and excellence in the practice of law,” said John G. Kerkorian, Ballard Spahr’s Strategic Planning Partner. “Our professional staff focuses on the business of law, developing tools and practices that raise the bar on efficiency, transparency, and value. Clients have every right to expect that firms will be smart about the legal dollars they invest with us—and we’re thrilled to be recognized for our work in this area.”