Be more competitive
These are challenging times for independent professional firms. Competition is increasing, clients are more demanding, business is more international than ever before, and new complex regulations are creating additional pressures. If your firm faces challenges of this nature, there are several routes you can take.

Membership of an international association of independent law and accounting firms such as MSI Global Alliance (MSI) is one of a number of viable solutions. Access to the wide range of additional resources and professional support offered by an international group of similar sized affiliates in 100 countries will enable your firm to focus on its core services and markets, while using the resources of the worldwide association to compete more effectively and with greater confidence. 

Remain non-exclusive
The additional resources of MSI and its legal and accounting firm members in 100 countries provide your firm with the opportunity to expand the range of services available to clients without jeopardising existing relationships or your firm's autonomy. Your firm's independence remains uncompromised, and like any strong independent professional services firm, your firm will not only be able to maximise avenues for growth from non-association sources, but also take advantage of association specific, new opportunities that were previously out of the firm's reach.

Enhance your profile
As an independent member firm of MSI, your firm retains its distinct business identity. Your independent control and professional judgement are in no way restricted; in fact, your services and capabilities are broadened and enhanced.

In detail, your firm will benefit from:

* Your own territory - MSI only allows one law firm and one accounting firm in every territory, maximising opportunities for business development and association referrals;

* Access to a London based Secretariat of five full-time staff who have in-depth knowledge of member specialties and expertise, and who are available to provide support whenever you need to reach out to affiliates at the national or international level in order to service existing clients or develop new business relationships;

* The right to use the MSI Global Alliance brand alongside your firm's own brand, strengthening your firm's pitch for new business that requires national and international reach and resources; 

* Global reach (versus global presence): the ability to service your clients beyond your local market in a simple and levy-free forum for local, national and international business referrals;

* Valuable opportunities to meet face to face with MSI colleagues through a three-tier system of MSI meetings and conferences. Meeting in person is the best way to build trust and discuss opportunities of mutual business interest;

* A free exchange of technical and practice management information between members, enhancing your firm’s development and client service opportunities;  

* Global resources including: a members website (MemberLink) providing a unique business social networking platform enabling members to profile themselves, promote their expertise and client projects, search, connect with each other, join online groups, and identify new business opportunities; regional and global marketing initiatives aimed at increasing awareness of the MSI Global Alliance brand; joint marketing opportunities; a monthly global newsletter (MSI Global Business Briefing); a bi-monthly Emerging Markets newsletter; and an annual international directory;

* An staff exchange facility enabling your firm to: supplement staff; broaden employees’ horizons through national/international secondments; position itself as a more attractive employer; and increase staff loyalty;

* No hidden costs with a one-off joining fee and competitively priced annual fees.