http://west.thomson.com/signup/newsletters/practice-innovations/default.aspx Practice Innovations newsletter http://legalsolutions.thomsonreuters.com/signup/newsletters/practice-innovations/2011-oct/article1.aspx The AFA manager plays a critical role in getting the alternative fee arrangements done. From having the fee conversation with clients, crafting an appropriate AFA, and helping build the budget, to moving the AFA through the firm's approval process and presenting it to the client, the successful AFA manager must posses a multitute of skills. Oct 2011 http://legalsolutions.thomsonreuters.com/signup/newsletters/practice-innovations/2011-oct/article2.aspx The recent economic downturn and softening of the commercial real estate market have offered law firms a unique opportunity to optimize space and reduce occupancy expenses. This case study shows how one firm took advantage of new lease arrangements to reduce its footprint, while making a strong commitment to both historic preservation and environmental sustainability. Oct 2011 http://legalsolutions.thomsonreuters.com/signup/newsletters/practice-innovations/2011-oct/article3.aspx Sally Helgesen and Julie Johnson, authors of The Female Vision: Women's Real Power at Work, and John Alexander, Faculty in the Leadership Fellows program at Elon University School of Law in Greensboro, N.C., discuss the unique perspective women bring to decision making and leadership, as well as the relevance of leadership to the practice of law. Oct 2011 http://legalsolutions.thomsonreuters.com/signup/newsletters/practice-innovations/2011-oct/article4.aspx Career development coaching for associates can bring many benefits to the law firm, ranging from improved retention and increased productivity to stronger collaboration and personal and professional satisfaction. As a result, client satisfaction increases as associates remain with the firm and relationships strengthen. Oct 2011 http://legalsolutions.thomsonreuters.com/signup/newsletters/practice-innovations/2011-oct/article5.aspx Changes in market conditions are driving law firms to rethink outsourcing and offshoring legal and business support services. From a library perspective, presenting a case for reallocating resources through centralization, process improvement, and outsourcing noncore functions will demonstrate the value proposition of knowledge and research services. Oct 2011 http://legalsolutions.thomsonreuters.com/signup/newsletters/practice-innovations/2011-oct/article6.aspx Government regulations have made compliance a challenge. The anticipation of increased regulatory mandates has caused many companies to reevaluate their risk process. To succeed today, risk management must be better aligned with a company's goal-setting process as well as fully integrated into all of its business units. Oct 2011 http://legalsolutions.thomsonreuters.com/signup/newsletters/practice-innovations/2011-oct/article7.aspx What if you could remember everything? Drawing on their experience with the "MyLifeBits" project at Microsoft Research, the authors explain the benefits of the Total Recall revolution - an earthshaking and inevitable increase in electronic memories that will change the way we work and learn, improve our health, and unleash our creativity. Oct 2011