Session: Fundamentals of Law Practice Management Systems #ABATECHSHOW

Thomas L. Rowe and JoAnn Hathaway led a session titled Practice management software from agony to ecstasy and a quick poll of the audience at the beginning demonstrated representation from firms of all sizes – including a substantial population of attorneys working at firms with 100 or more lawyers. The session defined practice management tools, described the differences between premise-based and cloud-based solutions, made the case for practice management, and finally, finished with tips for implementation.

Docketing is one of the features that separates LFPM from standard email calendars says @tomrowe #ABATECHSHOW

— LexisNexis BLSS (@Business_of_Law) March 27, 2014

With premise-based solutions, you own the software and the data which means you choose the timing of any upgrades — and you are not dependent on an internet connection to use it. From the presenters standpoint, premise-based solutions tend to be more robust, have better 3^rd party integration and tend to have more customization options.

The speakers defined cloud-based practice management as any software application that requires an internet connection to use it.  Cloud tools tend to be sold on a subscription basis, so the expenses are predictable and the starting cost is lower since no hardware investments are required.

Whether a firm chooses cloud or premise for law firm practice management, the presenters made the case for why a law firm needs such a system in four succinct points:

1. Efficiency. Handle more work with the same or fewer staff.
2. Rigor. Codify business process and protocols.
3. New business. Improve client acquisition and client conversion.
4. Analysis. Better business metrics for evaluating performance.

The speakers ended the session by covering these tips for implementing solutions:

1. Change management.  Effective use of process tools requires training.
2. Stepping stones. Training should be implemented over time rather than conducted all at once.
3. Systematic integrity.  Uniformity is critical to success to ensure every team member does things the same way.
4. Leadership. Anoint a leader to make decision; put one person in charge.
5. Documentation.  Create and documented procedures in a work flow manual.
6. Measure. Define what success looks like and create metrics for evaluating progress.

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