It can be daunting to even think about migrating to legal practice management systems. While you may know the move is needed, transitioning from the outdated software applications your firm uses now to a new modern system for the future – the process of data migration – can be stressful. The key is being prepared and planning ahead! Here are a few things to consider to ensure a successful migration.

Purchasing a new practice management system is a major step in moving towards increased productivity, efficiency and collaboration. However, when it comes to purchasing a legal practice management system (LPM), it is not a one-and-done deal. Your law firm will come to see that there are many LPMs to choose from, with varying degrees of transparency among the brands. Whether you work in a small practice or a larger one, firms of all sizes can benefit from understanding the costs associated with choosing a legal practice management software.

According to a McKinsey Global Institute report, over 23 percent of a lawyer’s work can be handled by technology. In addition, half of all lawyers are already using some form of workflow automation. Legal practice management software is a valuable part of a law firm’s toolkit that will save time by automating tedious, low-value tasks, allowing attorneys to focus on substantive legal work instead.

Law firms have unique accounting requirements. Selecting the proper accounting system for a law firm requires an understanding of those unique requirements. For example, law firms are required by the code of ethics to account for any funds held in trust on behalf of clients.

Adoption of legal technology is on the rise and legal professionals are using legal practice management software to enhance the productivity of their practices. Not only because of more individuals working from home, but advancements in technology overall have contributed to the legal industry embracing technology in the workplace.

Payment management is a critical workflow that every law practice must manage. The reality is that payment management is no longer just about invoices mailed to clients or waiting to receive payments by mail. It has evolved into something more mobile and flexible, which benefits both firms and clients.

Law firms are common targets of cyberattacks due to the sensitive information they obtain and store and their slow adoption of cybersecurity policies.

Due to recent events, most law firm employees and employers are re-evaluating their current positions and work environments. Overall, law firms have weathered the COVID storm better than originally expected.

Law firms that don’t adapt and, as a result, miss opportunities for growth, risk being overtaken by agile competitors who are more willing to embrace change. According to Forbes, research has shown that 38 percent of people enjoy leaving their comfort zone, while the other 62 percent don’t like to leave their comfort zone or rarely do so.