Each year, when I read the submissions in the category of management, my initial reaction is mild depression. Where else but in the legal sector would management teams in leading firms boast of “innovative” management initiatives such as strategic planning, balanced score cards, 360-degree feedback, client surveys, and open-plan offices?

Then I reflect on the skill and determination required to persuade lawyers to adopt these changes and understand better why their managers are so proud of what they have achieved.