It may seem daunting at first , but it ’ s imperative to track data as you grow your business and capitalize on new opportunities . The good news is that tools for viewing and interpreting data have come a long way and make the process much more accessible to attorneys .
A good place to start with respect to data is evaluating your case management system . Below we ’ ve outlined why and how to get started .
Why focus on case management ?
Taking unstructured data , such as intake forms and client agreements , and organizing it with the aid of a solid case management system can substantially benefit your firm in the following ways :
• Tracking client intake and the associated cost to sign up a new case
• Organizing all of your client data in one system where it can easily be extracted
• Providing real-time access to up-to-date case and client details for all members of your firm — attorneys and support staff alike
• Keeping clients informed by being able to quickly report on the progression of their cases
• Monitoring deadlines and important dates
• Increasing efficiency , which can lead to increased profitability
• Protecting data and security — virtually all businesses are moving away from the ubiquitous paper trail and toward digital management of documents
How to select a system ?
If you ’ re just starting down the path of organizing your firm ’ s case data , even the first step can feel like a daunting challenge . Evaluating and implementing either a new system or case management software is an undertaking in and of itself . There are many avenues through which you can seek out information and recommendations :
• Tradeshows — if you ’ re attending an industry conference or tradeshow , there ’ s probably numerous software companies exhibiting . Use this opportunity to speak to their representatives and take part in software demos while you ’ re there . Seeing the software in action and being guided by someone who knows it inside and out can help you better determine if it ’ s a good fit for your firm . Keep in mind how your data is stored currently and who will be the primary user of the system while you do your research .
• Peer Listservs — who better to ask than your peer law firms who may already be employing a similar software ? If you ’ re part of a listserv for your particular practice area or bar association , reach out and ask for recommendations . Most attorneys are willing to share their experiences . Remember to not only source the positive reviews , but also pay attention to the negative feedback so you can better evaluate all of the tools available to your firm .
• Trial Lawyer Associations — if you ’ re a member of a local , state or national trial lawyer association , don ’ t hesitate to leverage it as a guide for your exploration of potential solutions . Your association may have a standing relationship with a particular software vendor that has been thoroughly vetted . Or they may be able to put you in touch with another member or vendor who has expertise or extensive knowledge of software options .
Take the time to carefully source a software solution . Not only is it likely to be a large monetary investment , there will also be a substantial investment of time to implement it . You want to be confident that in the end your firm will benefit from the effort .
How can case management help with financing your practice ?
Many benefits from focusing on your law firm data are obvious ( and stated above ). Better data equates to more streamlined processes which in turn drive efficiency . Improved processes can also mean more productive and content employees . If your practice operates at its best , your clients are likely to be satisfied with your services . Satisfied customers can translate into referrals and new business opportunities .
But a less obvious positive impact of having an organized case management
The Trial Lawyer x 21