HOLMES Strategic IT Review

Holmes recognised the need to step back and strategically review their IT systems to ensure they were not only fit for current operations but also future-ready and aligned with their ambitious growth plans.

Holmes O’Malley Sexton LLP (HOLMES – formally HOMS Solicitors) are a leading Irish law firm with an international outlook and a strong, multi-disciplinary practice. Known for being forward-thinking and tech-savvy, the firm had built a reputation over the years as a legal innovator. However, with recent growth – including the acquisition of another Dublin-based firm – HOLMES recognised it was time to take a step back and review their IT strategically. Their systems were perfectly operational, but they needed to ensure their IT capability was fit for purpose, not only for the here and now, but that it was also future-ready and aligned with their ambitious growth plans.

The Challenge

Despite increasing investment in technology, the firm wasn’t seeing clear value. Costs were rising, but the benefit wasn’t obvious. They wanted clarity, direction, and confidence that their IT was underpinning their strategic ambitions.

The Solution

They turned to Lights-On Consulting, having been highly recommended to the specialist IT consultancy through the Managing Partners Forum, a trusted network of legal sector professionals.

After an initial call, it was agreed that a full Strategic IT Review was the right place to start. Lights-On’s review process is designed specifically for law firms. It is a rigorous, methodical, and focused on strategic value.

The process began with comprehensive information gathering exercise, followed by a focused two-day onsite session. This included one-on-one interviews and group discussions across all levels of the firm – from partners to fee-earners, support staff, and the internal IT team. This breadth of perspective allowed Lights-On to understand how IT was being consumed across the board, identifying where it was enabling productivity – and where it was falling short.

They explored everything IT touches: people, processes, hardware, configuration, response times, and the day-to-day experience with core systems, such as case management. Patterns and themes emerged. From there, a detailed mind map of the firm’s IT environment was created, backed up by hard data and practical insight.

The Outcome

Lights-On delivered a clear, actionable roadmap with short, medium, and long-term goals – each tied to business priorities. It provided the firm with a strategic view of IT as a business enabler, not just a cost centre.

“This review wasn’t just about IT health – this was about aligning technology with business ambition,” said Stephen Brown, Managing Director at Lights-On. “HOLMES knew where they wanted to go. Our job was to give them the map.”

Nicola Martin, Consultant at Lights-On, added: “We help reduce the noise. HOLMES now have a clear view of their strengths, development points and the practical steps needed to support business growth through IT.”

Does Your IT Need an Honest, Independent, Strategic Review?

Lights-On Consulting supports law firms with bold ambitions. If you’re planning for growth, want to know whether your IT can support it, or simply need a clearer view of where value is (and isn’t) being delivered, our Strategic IT Review is a proven, specialist approach.

Speak to one of our consultants today to find out more.

“Working with Lights-On gave us exactly what we needed – clarity and a strategic plan tailored to our firm. Their understanding of the legal sector is second to none, and the process was professional, thorough and highly effective. We now feel confident that our IT is aligned with our future plans”

Robert Kennedy, Partner, HOLMES