Will the case management software I have chosen really provide the benefits I’m looking for?

The answer is a resounding, “Yes”, but only if coupled with a successful implementation.   This will depend on several factors.

Realistically scoping out the project and setting appropriate goals

Whether you work  in the public sector, private practice or a legal department you will need to demonstrate value when in investing in case management software.  Iken can help you to develop a project scope and ROI document to ensure a smooth implementation together with a clear picture of what you can expect to achieve.

Click for details of the value of case management software or view our information centre for case studies.

Gaining buy-in from the organisation

Have you communicated to all the people within the organisation why the case management software system is being implemented?  For instance:

• Whose time will it save?
• Will it make more work for some people initially?
• Have you considered whether this will put them under increased pressure?

Successful communication and hand holding before and during implementation will increase the likelihood of its success.

Furthermore, as you consider choosing or upgrading to our solution, our ongoing partnerships with client’s means that we can help you demonstrate the value of Iken’s case management system in action to other key staff members and decision makers. 

Ownership of the project

Does your organisation have a named person who is responsible for the implementation and ongoing success of the case management solution, or is it left totally to the case management software supplier?  If you decide to appoint someone internally, you will need to make sure that they have the time to devote to the project, especially in the initial stages, and do they have the respect of the organisation?   If such a person does not exist, then consider a project management consultant with suitable experience as an althernative.   Whatever you decide make sure that the case management supplier has sufficient expertise in the legal sector.

Training

Both the case management software supplier/consultant and your organisation will need to work closely together.  Make sure that your supplier or consultant has a track record in training and implementation with other law firms or departments of your size.  Is the training ongoing and well planned?   Can the system be implemented gradually, to make it easy for staff to adapt to it or can a pilot group test drive the new system before roll out to the rest of the organisation?  Can the trainer and supplier be involved at both stages?  Will your staff be trained just on the case management software or also how it integrates with other systems?

Flexibility and the right system for you.

Have you ordered the right case management system for your organisation and is it flexible?  Some case management software requires legal professionals to change their working practices to fit the system instead of the other way round!  Can it be adapted for your organisation so that the software matches your working practices?   This is not necessarily a cheap option but in the long run it will pay for itself.  Providing fee earners with case management software that matches their working practices means they will enjoy using it, buy into the new system and it will make their lives easier.  They will be able to complete work more efficiently and handle larger case loads, earning their organisation more income.  Ask for references and case studies from your supplier.

Future Needs

Are there updates available from your supplier?   With the rapid changes in legal work and technological advances, software needs to be adaptable.  What are the ongoing costs involved here and are these transparent?  Can you add further functionality to your system at a later date to meet the changing needs of your legal work?

Value for your organisation

We offer Lexcel compliant consultancy services, initial and ongoing software training, software development in close consultation with clients, standalone modules and integrated systems and regular software updates according to your needs.

For further information, please contact our Lexcel and case management software consultant Elizabeth Miles at info@iken.biz