What workflow technology can and cannot do
Workflow tools are good at structure: capturing events in date order, linking documents to facts, tracking deadlines, and producing a clean record. That structure is exactly what people without representation struggle to build under stress.
Tools should not pretend to be lawyers. The line between organizing information and giving legal advice is a design constraint, not an afterthought — especially given unauthorized-practice-of-law rules.
Design principles
Plain language first; bilingual by default in Canadian contexts. Make deadlines and their sources explicit. Keep evidence separate from argument. Preserve originals. Be transparent about limits and route users to licensed help when risk is high.
Privacy by design matters: minimize data, isolate sensitive material, and never require people to disclose privileged content to receive general information.
Scope and disclaimer
This is research and educational material on tool design. It is general information, not legal advice, and not an endorsement of any specific product.