Multiple Reasons for Optimism: China's IP Picture Continues to Evolve
September 18, 2006
Watch carefully as China now prepares new policy guidelines, expected by the end of this year, for its semiconductor industry. Policy-makers and economists say, no doubt correctly, that China has identified semiconductors as a core part of its high-tech and overall business strategy. Tax exemptions and tax reductions will be major components of the emergent strategy, as will direct subsidies for R&D. Such tactical economic initiatives are expected to affect foreigners, including American expert technicians and corporate partners, as well as domestic interests.
Vinson & Elkins Opens Hong Kong Office
September 15, 2006
Vinson & Elkins has expanded its practice in China by opening an office in Hong Kong, giving the Houston-based firm four offices in Asia.
Professional Development University: Ahead of the Curve
September 05, 2006
Why are law firm partners, associates and staff retreating? Has the battle become so intense that the commanders believe the troops need to pull back, refresh and reorganize? Or cut their losses and move on? Is it a time away from the daily grind of billable hours and client demands that provides everyone with a minute to breathe on the firm's dime? Is it reward or retribution? Is there a moment or two of professional development that will be recognized as CLE? Is it the new leadership's moment to deliver the 'new message' to a captive audience? Is it a time for partners and executives to take a few steps back so they can make greater progress on key business objectives in the coming months? This article answers those questions.
The Birth of the Inclusionary Firm
September 05, 2006
The recent death of Peter Drucker, one of America's greatest business philosophers ' a man who substantially changed the practice of American management ' brought forth an abundant burst of adoration and glorification from all corners of the business and journalistic world. Articles and memorials quoted extensively from his works.
Associate Compensation Increases
September 05, 2006
Among professional service firms, there is a definite increase in competition for talent. But competition for talent could indicate a commensurate increase in salaries and billing rates that will probably put tremendous pressure on law firms to be more efficient and effective in the delivery of legal services. This pressure will change a law firm's business model and culture. How will the staffing and business models change, and how will law firms use these trends to improve their competitive position? These issues are the focus of this article.
Listening Your Way to New Business
September 01, 2006
According to a German proverb: 'A man has two ears and one mouth so that he hears much and speaks little.' Mark Twain followed up the thought by saying: 'If we were meant to talk more than listen, we would have two mouths and one ear.' And I'll add: We were given two ears and one mouth, and they should be used in that proportion in a sales call.
Media & Communications Corner: Meet Hank Shafran ' Director of Communications at Bingham McCutchen LLP
September 01, 2006
With more than 30 years in PR, Hank Shafran has experience in all aspects of agency, governmental and corporate communications. But he has seen law firm PR, in particular, from a unique perspective with more than 10 years at Bingham McCutchen LLP, where he has worked on the PR end of six different mergers and seen the firm grow from a 175-lawyer Boston firm to a 950-attorney global firm.
