The Scottish Arbitration Centre has today announced the launch of Unicorn, powered by Opus 2, following the publication of the Centre’s Rules. All arbitrations administered by the Centre will use the secure, connected eFiling and Case Management system, enabling scale, consistency and convenience for parties and arbitrators.
Unicorn, named after Scotland’s national animal, will provide a central connected space for the parties and the tribunal from the outset, giving users a secure, efficient, and consistent way to access and share all case-related information and materials. Claimants, respondents, tribunal, and the institution can securely manage the exchange of all documents and notices via a connected Portal, with built-in audit trails providing greater transparency and control. The new system streamlines onboarding and handover, automates manual administrative tasks, and provides analytics that enable the Centre to deliver its services efficiently and offer a modern connected experience to its end clients.
The Centre selected Opus 2 to develop this tailored, unique solution built on its multi-award-winning technology. Opus 2 is at the forefront of legal sector innovation in disputes and hearings, and its solutions help connect a wide range of stakeholders across the lifecycle of international arbitration proceedings. In 2021, Opus 2 supported over 400 cases in international arbitration that included law firms, their clients, and other participants from more than 75 countries. Its solutions have also been used by over 700 leading arbitrators globally.
Commenting on the launch, Brandon Malone, Chairman of the Board of Scottish Arbitration Centre, said:
"Now that we have rules and an administrative infrastructure to deal with cases, we want to deliver our clients an innovative, efficient and first-class experience. We wanted to deliver a solution that had cybersecurity at its heart and enabled us to put our commitment to greener arbitrations into practice. In Opus 2, we found a partner with an exceptional track record of creating game-changing technology and a deep understanding and knowledge of international arbitration and the broader legal sector."
Martin Coen, Chief Executive Officer at Opus 2, said:
"We are delighted to have worked with the Scottish Arbitration Centre to rapidly deliver their innovative technology-led service. We look forward to a long and successful partnership as the Centre continues to innovate and deliver a first-class experience to their clients.”
Unicorn was announced and previewed at the ICCA Congress 2022 in Edinburgh. To learn more, visit https://scottisharbitrationcentre.org/. For more information on Opus 2 technology for Arbitral Institutions, visit https://www.opus2.com/arbitral-institutions.
About the Scottish Arbitration Centre
The Scottish Arbitration Centre opened in 2011. It promotes arbitration to the Scottish business community as an effective alternative to litigation, and Scotland to global players as an attractive place to conduct international arbitration. It also currently appoints arbitrators in ad hoc matters and offers training and facilities for hearings. The Centre is currently hosting the XXVth International Council for Commercial Arbitration Congress (ICCA), which takes place in Edinburgh, and has just launched its Rules and administrative services.
Arunn Ramadoss
