More than 170 “techies” and others interested in the intersection of technology and legal aid gathered in Jacksonville, Fla., in January for the 2013 Technology Initiative Grants (TIG) Conference.

“Measuring the Networked Nonprofit” author Beth Kanter challenged participants at the opening plenary to embrace the work of collecting, making sense of, and – “where the real magic happens” – applying data to improve programs and get results. That theme was echoed at a later session on Using Data to Improve Program Performance. 

Data was one of several conference topics. Sessions highlighted innovations in case management systems; new developments in web-based legal resources (including using video to reach clients); and use of technology to enhance internal legal services operations, encourage pro bono, and address persons with limited English proficiency.

In a luncheon speech, LSC President Jim Sandman told the participants that they are key to the future of legal services.

“Technology is at the epicenter of innovation in legal services today,” he said. "I think you are the people who can help us demonstrate that this is an area where legal services can lead. My goal is to have the rest of the legal profession asking the question, ‘How are they doing it in legal services?’ and looking to us for the example we set and the leadership we show.”

LSC's Technology Initiative Grants (TIG) program will soon begin accepting letters of intent for the 2013 funding cycle.  A webinar for potential applicants will be held on Thursday, February 21, 2013 at 1 p.m. Eastern time.

Get more information about the TIG application process and register for the webinar.

See 2013 TIG Conference materials and session videos.

Read LSC Chief Information Officer Peter Campbell’s reflections on the 2013 TIG Conference and Technology Summit.

From LSC Updates, February 2013