from John Rapp, re:

Consulting Services

I recently learned a new word: "sourcing" — which I have now discovered is just a fancy word for knowing who will be great in a specialized field, for a particular firm; and how much they should reasonably cost.

This concept fits right in with the principal goal of the Emerald Education Group: "Bringing Business To Law: Professional Development That Builds Competitive Advantage". Emerald Education Group makes money for its partners.

I have been an attorney for 20 years, in practice across the US; professional development director for three very different law firms (from 30 to 3000 attorneys); and both a law and a business school professor.

So if you have any "holes" in your sourcing for professional/legal training, we are glad to help. You likely have some great consultants already. And of course, we don't know your firm's unique needs — we'll need your help on that.

But if you need some new choices for training — fast — we can usually help you put in context any options you have already; help to ensure a fine fit with your organization's needs; and help you to maximize the perceived connection between the training/development function and your firm's competitive position.

We know what's risky; and we work hard to find low-cost options to support you (e.g., great online/e-training, books, videos, etc.).

Here's a fresh example of Emerald Education Group's sourcing work: We just completed a national demonstration project for the Association of Legal Administrators. This great project necessitated substantial, systematic, strategic planning and sourcing.

We worked with ALA to transform its comprehensive "A Business Skills Curriculum For Law Firm Associates" into a practical two-year course cycle. All the courses held so far have been well-received. This curriculum provides each attorney training in 58 "essential business skills" which are critical to law practice success, but are not taught in many law schools.

I have helped design/implement firmwide, office and practice group-specific professional development audits, surveys and standards; competency "ladders"; knowledge databases; and orientation programs.

I also enjoy Initial "Provisioning" of Professional Development programs — i.e., helping to create a first-ever PD program. I have been closely involved in several such situations.

Finally, writing is a special gift of mine. I have been labeled (among other things) "The Brochure Doctor" for my rare ability to enliven marketing language for professionals. I would be happy to help you "sell" an extra-important training event, client seminar, etc.

So call or e-mail me (contact info below), if I might assist you. I really enjoy linking top experts, who are great teachers, with real needs. And I gain the benefit of learning which of your needs I personally may be best to serve. So you and I can both come out winners.

Best Regards,
John Rapp, M.A., J.D., Principal
Emerald Education Group
+1.206.383.4091