Duane Morris Case Analyses
Duane Morris Case Analyses
1. What factors have led to Duane Morris's success? What prompted their late-1990s growth spurt? 2. How should Duane Morris plan to integrate their new acquisition? 3. What are the biggest risks faced by the firm in the next 5-10 years?
Duane Morris strategy evolved over time while leveraging its history. The strategy was shaped by its environment, resources and leadership. The degree of congruence between the people, the tasks, the informal and formal organization was relatively high, which led to a successful growth and profitability. * Duane Morris compensation structure is one factor that was well aligned with the company’s strategy from formal organization perspective and led to its success. The process was transparent, flexible and rewarded teamwork. The firm used quantitative analysis combined with qualitative aspects to be able to reward employees for contributing to the overall functioning of the firm supports. This flexibility empowered employees to utilize their time in the most effective way for the firm instead of struggling to perform functions that they are not as strong at as their colleagues. In addition, “attorneys who did work for other attorneys’ clients received substantial credit for this work.” This reinforced teamwork and as a result promoted the firm’s business strategy of cross-selling, as evident by 20% of revenues originating from interoffice business. Lastly, Duane Morris chose to underpay its leadership and keep low spread. This supported their value of teamwork and collegial work environment by preventing tension and politics among the partners. * Promotion is another factor. The ratio of partners to associates was law relative to other firms. This was a differentiating aspect that enables to firm to provide experienced service to its client and ultimately stay competitive in generating business, retaining clients, and charging higher fees. Additionally, the firm treated equity and
1. What factors have led to Duane Morris's success? What prompted their late-1990s growth spurt? 2. How should Duane Morris plan to integrate their new acquisition? 3. What are the biggest risks faced by the firm in the next 5-10 years?
Duane Morris strategy evolved over time while leveraging its history. The strategy was shaped by its environment, resources and leadership. The degree of congruence between the people, the tasks, the informal and formal organization was relatively high, which led to a successful growth and profitability. * Duane Morris compensation structure is one factor that was well aligned with the company’s strategy from formal organization perspective and led to its success. The process was transparent, flexible and rewarded teamwork. The firm used quantitative analysis combined with qualitative aspects to be able to reward employees for contributing to the overall functioning of the firm supports. This flexibility empowered employees to utilize their time in the most effective way for the firm instead of struggling to perform functions that they are not as strong at as their colleagues. In addition, “attorneys who did work for other attorneys’ clients received substantial credit for this work.” This reinforced teamwork and as a result promoted the firm’s business strategy of cross-selling, as evident by 20% of revenues originating from interoffice business. Lastly, Duane Morris chose to underpay its leadership and keep low spread. This supported their value of teamwork and collegial work environment by preventing tension and politics among the partners. * Promotion is another factor. The ratio of partners to associates was law relative to other firms. This was a differentiating aspect that enables to firm to provide experienced service to its client and ultimately stay competitive in generating business, retaining clients, and charging higher fees. Additionally, the firm treated equity and