It is often not ignorance that gets us into trouble, but the things we know that just aren't so. Perception can be accurate; though not always, especially when situations subtly mutate over time. Changed opinions should accompany changed circumstances. This, however, requires seeing the situation as it actually is. And long-held perceptions can hinder our ability to discern new realities. Hard data may therefore be required to change minds, if not hearts.

Boutique powerhouse Keesal, Young, & Logan has witnessed many shifts in the legal landscape over its 45-year history. The firm has five offices, in Long Beach and San Francisco, Calif., Seattle, Anchorage and Hong Kong.

To maintain its commitment to quality, the firm developed “KYL Keeps You Learning,” a program to ensure that their lawyers and support staff are current on whatever their jobs require. But that goal is premised on actually knowing what the jobs require. Perceptions vary. If the firm had simply gathered everyone together, the arguments about who needed what training could have been endless. Or the argument could have ended with the senior participant passing judgment. But that is not how KYL operates—it was founded by trial lawyers who understand the importance of knowing the facts.