What is a case velocity calculator?
Our case velocity calculator measures how efficiently cases move through your law firm’s pipeline.
For attorneys and paralegals, understanding case velocity helps predict timelines, allocate resources, and set realistic client expectations. Tracking the average completion rate across all stages typically highlights bottlenecks and surfaces optimization opportunities.
Firms that regularly monitor case velocity and implement automation workflows often see faster resolutions, higher profitability, and improved client satisfaction.
How to calculate case velocity
This section outlines the step-by-step process for calculating case velocity manually. Alternatively, you can save time by using the case velocity calculator tool provided here.
Step 1. Identify your case stages
- Inputs: List all stages in your case pipeline, such as intake, discovery, negotiation, and resolution.
- Formula Context: Each stage represents a critical checkpoint in your case management process.
- Key Takeaway: Most law firms have four to eight distinct stages, but this varies by practice area.
Step 2. Calculate stage completion rates
- Inputs: For each stage, calculate the percentage of cases that are completed within your target timeframe.
- Formula: (Cases completed on time / Total cases) × 100 = Stage completion rate.
- Key Takeaway: Completion rates below 70% typically indicate process bottlenecks requiring attention.
Step 3. Apply the case velocity formula
- Inputs: Divide the sum of all stage completion rates by the number of stages to get the case velocity (CV).
- Formula: CV = (Σ Stage completion rate) / (Number of stages).
- Key Takeaway: A case velocity above 80% indicates efficient pipeline management, while below 60% suggests significant optimization opportunities.
How a case velocity calculator supports daily operations
Case velocity measurement is a practical tool for legal operations management, helping firms turn complex workflows into clear, actionable insights. It plays a central role in improving law firm efficiency:
- Spot pain points: Document recurring challenges such as missed deadlines, client complaints, or bottlenecks. Velocity highlights where process fixes will have the most impact.
- Support decision-making: Use data to guide workload assignments, hiring needs, or technology investments instead of relying on guesswork. These insights are essential for anyone learning how to manage a law firm effectively.
- Evaluate performance and return on investment (ROI): Compare staff performance with objective data and measure the impact of new technology or process improvements.
FAQs
What's considered a good case velocity score?
A case velocity above 80% indicates excellent pipeline efficiency, 60-80% suggests room for improvement, and below 60% typically requires immediate process optimization. However, benchmarks vary significantly by practice area and case complexity.
How often should I calculate case velocity?
Calculate case velocity monthly for operational insights and quarterly for strategic planning. More frequent calculations help identify emerging bottlenecks, while quarterly reviews support long-term efficiency planning and resource allocation decisions.
Can case velocity be improved without additional staff?
Yes, many velocity improvements come from process optimization, better technology utilization, and workflow automation rather than hiring. Focus on eliminating redundant steps, improving client communication systems, and automating routine tasks.
How does case velocity relate to profitability?
Higher case velocity typically correlates with increased profitability through faster case resolution, improved resource utilization, and enhanced client satisfaction leading to more referrals. Velocity improvements often yield measurable ROI within 3-6 months.
Should different practice areas use different velocity calculations?
While the basic formula remains consistent, practice areas should customize stage definitions and target completion rates based on their unique workflows, regulatory requirements, and typical case timelines.
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