Next Generation Users

The third group discussed by the authors in "Next Generation Learning in Law Firms" is what they describe as the "next generation user." They estimate that by the year 2020, employees of law firms will be technology users, reflecting the behaviors, values, needs, expectations, and demands of the different generations they belong to. By many estimates, there could be five different generations in the workforce at that time.

It is through this incredible convergence of generations that the need for tailored, consultative learning programs will emerge. In fact, the so-called Millennials are already impacting the profession in a major way. Tom Gimbel wrote in "Managing Millennials" (2007) that approximately 70 percent of partners in today's law firms are Baby Boomers, and they will lose nearly 75 percent of those partnerships in the short-term. They will be be replaced by the Millennials, a generation noted for:

• Their rapid adoption of technology
• A general disregard for IT policy and standardization
• A strong desire for a personal experience
• A collaborative and relationship-based work environment
• An openness in mentoring and professional/personal development

So, what does this mean for the law firm? How will these new demands impact the availability of technology in the law firm? What, exactly, will Next Generation Learning look like?

The authors believe we will see a whole new approach to formal learning. And, perhaps, we will see that informal learning will take the lead with respect to learning the new technologies and teaching the new user generations joining the profession in the coming years.