Otten Johnson's previous document creation system had become a catalyst for broken processes. Every Microsoft update meant expensive fixes and frustrated users. The firm needed a solution that would work with Word, not against it. BigHand Document Creation provided the native integration they needed, transforming their legal document creation process into one of seamless efficiency. The implementation was so successful that leadership initially forgot the major migration had even occurred - the ultimate testament to seamless technology adoption.
Director of Administration, Otten Johnson
Otten Johnson's document creation system had become an operational burden. Their macro-based solution required regular maintenance and expensive fixes with every Microsoft Word update. "Whenever Microsoft did an update, it tended to break our old add-in," explains Michelle Maynard, Director of Administration. "We spent an exorbitant amount of money because the software proprietor would then have to go in and fix the macros to work with the newest version of Word."
The add-in's limitations extended beyond cost. Custom modules pulled users away from native Word functionality, creating panic when the add-in went down. “Before BigHand, even basic tasks like updating a table of contents could trigger panic if the add-in failed. I remember someone rushing to my desk unsure if it was even possible without the old add-in," recalls Wanda Henry, Software Application Specialist. "It really highlighted why moving to a robust, Word-native solution was essential.”
These challenges were also worsening as technology advanced, making the firm's document creation process increasingly unreliable and expensive to maintain.
Otten Johnson chose BigHand Document Creation for its comprehensive legal document solution that transforms Microsoft Word into a streamlined, purpose-built legal document production tool. The platform's native Word integration eliminated the macro-based vulnerabilities of their previous add-in, while its intuitive ribbon interface organizes workflow options from left to right, minimizing training requirements.
Having used BigHand for nearly two decades in previous roles, Wanda Henry recognized the strategic value: "I like that BigHand sticks to native Word processes. This ensures users maintain their core Word competencies while leveraging powerful document creation enhancements."
The implementation showcased BigHand's key differentiators. BigHand Document Creation's advanced styling capabilities - including automated numbering, bullet points, and centrally managed style-sets - replaced outdated modules. The solution's renovation tools help clean up formatting issues that previously would have required a lot of manual intervention.
The firm's strategic implementation approach combined inclusive decision-making with BigHand's comprehensive training resources. Michelle explains: "We made the decision-making process collaborative from the start. Our users had a voice in the demos and evaluations, which built early buy-in. Then we paired that with BigHand’s professional training team, in addition to leveraging Wanda’s deep product and legal tech expertise - to ensure a smooth, confident rollout across the firm." This approach, supported by BigHand's built-in training videos and dedicated customer success team, created seamless adoption across all user levels.
The transformation exceeded expectations. BigHand's HyperStyles feature eliminated the formatting inconsistencies that plagued their previous system. "What I appreciate most about BigHand's outline sets is their consistency," says Wanda. "Once we define them, they stay exactly as intended - quietly doing their job without unexpected behavior. In tech, reliability often goes unnoticed, but it's the foundation of trust in a fast-paced legal environment."
Document template management became effortless. Instead of manually searching for documents, users can now access everything through BigHand's solution. "BigHand Document Creation has taken the guesswork out of document management," explains Wanda. "Users no longer waste time hunting down documents - they simply open the tool and select exactly what they need. It's intuitive, efficient, and makes everyone's day easier."
Perhaps most significantly, the solution became a powerful recruiting tool. "When we're recruiting people, the technology conversation isn't as in-depth because people recognize BigHand," Michelle notes. "We're now standard marketplace... using the top products in the legal market. Finding talent familiar with our technology, including BigHand, is so much easier than it was before."
Software Application Specialist, Otten Johnson
Otten Johnson's transformation demonstrates how the right document creation solution can eliminate operational headaches while positioning firms for future growth. BigHand Document Creation delivered native Word integration, simplified workflows, and competitive recruiting advantages that continue to benefit the firm today.
Ready to transform your document creation process? Watch this product demo to see how BigHand can deliver the same seamless results for your firm.
Give your teams a quick, easy way to design and deploy in-house document templates and let your people work in a more self-sufficient way without the need for support, with the correct template for the job, every time. Save time, effort and money that can be reinvested in higher value areas. Make template management quick and easy with BigHand Document Creation.
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