Whether the task is investigation, analysis, knowledge management or reporting, the guiding principles of lean comms are always the same: Keep it relevant, direct, and concise. As anyone who's been in private practice will know, your firm can spend all the money in the world on consultants and technology, but if the GC doesn't like you, you're out. Consider then the quality and nature of your engagements with clients. If you can be concise and helpful, the chances are that will translate into likeability. If you badger, bore or bewilder clients, the chances are you'll be seen as just annoying. That's one key reason why Lean Communications matter.

We have discussed how 'lean' is largely about effectiveness (correct outcome), efficiency (on budget and on time) and overall transparency. Efficiency means finding waste and eliminating it. In all areas of legal practice, waste accumulates around valueless activity and the usual suspects always include communications.