A leading international law firm sought to enhance its internal AI capabilities by transitioning from ad-hoc R&D projects to a structured, scalable software development approach. Recognising the need for long-term AI solutions, the firm engaged Harmeston Consulting to help formalise its development processes and integrate AI products into its wider IT strategy.

Harmeston set out to establish a structured development framework for AI solutions. The client needed to transition from one-off R&D projects to sustainable, long-term AI products. They also had to ensure AI initiatives aligned with enterprise-level security, governance, and operational standards.Moreover, there was a disconnect between the AI development team and the firm’s broader IT function. The AI team operated in an agile, experimental environment, while the IT department adhered to strict governance protocols. This divergence in approach created friction and inefficiencies when attempting to move AI products into live service.

The firm had a team of highly skilled data scientists and developers focused on AI-driven legal solutions. However, their work was primarily project-based, creating bespoke tools for individual matters rather than sustainable products. These short-term builds often lacked the rigour required for long-term deployment, leading to difficulties in integrating them into enterprise IT systems. As a result, promising innovations frequently stalled due to security concerns, governance requirements, and a lack of structured development and maintenance processes.

Harmeston Consulting implemented a structured framework tailored to the firm’s AI development needs. Drawing on the firm’s existing Target Operating Model, Harmeston established clear processes to guide AI initiatives from inception through to live deployment and long-term support. This included defining business case approval stages, security reviews, testing protocols, and service transition plans.

To bridge the gap between the AI team and the broader IT function, Harmeston introduced standardised governance measures while preserving the agile methodology that was key to AI innovation. By integrating these processes, the AI team could continue working with flexibility while ensuring that outputs met enterprise-level security and compliance standards.

With Harmeston’s guidance, the firm transitioned from an R&D-driven AI approach to a sustainable product development model. Agile squads were established with clear roadmaps and governance, enabling scalable AI solutions like automated contract comparison and risk analysis tools.

This shift improved collaboration between AI specialists and IT governance teams, reducing friction and fostering trust. By balancing agility with structured governance, Harmeston helped the firm accelerate AI adoption while ensuring long-term innovation and operational resilience.