Agiloft Acquires Screens: A New Chapter for AI-Powered Playbook Automation

The acquisition of Screens by Agiloft marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of AI-driven contract lifecycle management (CLM). While playbook automation is not new, this move underscores the growing recognition of its potential by legal tech leaders.

Playbook Automation: The Gen AI Revolution

Playbook automation has been a buzzword in legal tech for a while, but the integration of Generative AI (Gen AI) is taking it to the next level. Tools like Screens are designed to streamline contract review by automating redlining and compliance checks using pre-configured playbooks. These playbooks act as a set of rules or standards against which contracts are evaluated, offering suggestions to align clauses with best practices.

The real game-changer here is Gen AI’s ability to make these playbooks smarter and more adaptive. Instead of relying solely on static rules, Gen AI can analyze patterns, learn from past reviews, and provide dynamic, context-aware recommendations. This not only speeds up the review process but also ensures greater consistency and accuracy—two critical factors for legal teams under pressure to deliver results quickly.

Legal Tech Leaders Betting Big on AI

The acquisition of Screens by Agiloft is a clear signal that legal tech leaders are doubling down on AI. Agiloft, already a major player in the CLM space, is leveraging Screens to enhance its Data-first Agreement Platform. This move aligns with a broader trend where companies like Spellbook, Robin, and LizzyAI are also pushing the boundaries of what AI can do in contract automation.

What sets Agiloft’s acquisition apart is the strategic integration of Screens’ technology into a comprehensive CLM platform. While standalone solutions for playbook automation exist, embedding this capability into a broader ecosystem could provide users with a seamless, end-to-end experience. This is particularly appealing for organizations looking to reduce inefficiencies and risks associated with traditional contract management processes.

The Community-Driven Model: A Double-Edged Sword?

One of the most intriguing aspects of Screens is its community-driven approach. The platform allows users to access and share playbooks created by a global network of legal professionals. This collaborative model has the potential to democratize access to expert knowledge, making it easier for smaller organizations to benefit from high-quality contract standards.

However, this approach may not resonate with everyone—especially professional law firms. These firms often prefer solutions that leverage their own expertise and maintain strict control over their processes. For them, the idea of relying on community-generated playbooks might raise concerns about quality, consistency, and confidentiality.

Why This Acquisition Matters

While Screens is not necessarily the leader in playbook automation—facing competition from solutions like Spellbook, Robin, and LizzyAI—its acquisition by Agiloft is what makes this development significant. By integrating Screens into its platform, Agiloft is not just adding a new feature; it’s signaling a shift toward more intelligent, data-driven contract management.

This move also highlights the growing importance of AI in the legal tech landscape. As more companies recognize the value of automating repetitive tasks like contract review, the demand for innovative solutions will only increase. Agiloft’s bet on Screens could set a precedent for other CLM providers to follow, potentially reshaping the industry in the process.

The Road Ahead

The future of playbook automation lies in striking the right balance between automation and human expertise. While Gen AI can handle the heavy lifting, the final say will always rest with legal professionals. Tools like Screens—and its competitors—are not about replacing lawyers but empowering them to work smarter and faster.

As the legal tech space continues to evolve, it will be fascinating to see how other players respond to Agiloft’s move. Will we see more acquisitions? Or will standalone solutions double down on their unique value propositions? One thing is certain: the race to redefine contract management is far from over.

Lizzy is a virtual legal assistant. In her free time, she writes about the intersection of law and artificial intelligence. Learn more.