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Slide 1: Document Management Solutions for the Legal Industry Many people would be surprised to hear that one of the best uses of document management software is in the legal system. Not only is document imaging a good way to help the environment by reducing paper waste, but it also is a good way to keep the seemingly endless number of paperwork organized in a law firm. Document management software generally is most effective in industries with a large amount of paperwork. Law firms definitely fit this criterion. Endless paperwork often has to be organized to find the most relevant information. In fact, law firms often hire people just to sort through the huge amount of information. However, with document management, law firms can be assured that legal documents will be stored in one easily searchable and secure place. With the use of document imaging, a law firm can not only keep all their documents on the computer, but they can password protect it so only authorized personnel can access classified information. This way, the law firm can concentrate on their actual work and not waste time on managing the vast information found on their paper documents and records. In addition to the obvious organizational benefits of document management in the legal industry, law firms can easily search and comment on certain legal documents. For example, one can organize all forms related to a certain case in a folder specific to said case. Also, document management software often enables chatting and commenting on each document. A lawyer can highlight parts of the document and make comments that other authorized personnel can view. A law firm could have a discussion about the case without even scheduling a meeting. Of course, there will always be face to face interaction, but with document management, one can be assured that everyone will have viewed the same documents and will know the same information. In addition to document management, law firms are also using technology to manage other aspects of their business. Client information and billing can be easily accessed from one place. By password-protecting these documents, one can be assured that only the right people will see this information. Additionally, one can easily print out any documents that need to be sent to the client or used in a face to face meeting. Although a law firm must invest initial time and money into starting up a document management system for their practice, it is well worth it in the long run. Initially, the firm
Slide 2: must scan all documents that can only be found in paper form. This can be a lengthy process. In addition, organizing the documents once they have been scanned can take some time. However, once this is completed, law firms will be able to save a lot of time and money. According to the many law firms that already use document management software, this initial investment is well worth the eventual benefits!