There could be a multitude of reasons why you are leaving your current software program for another. Whether you are leaving for more streamlined or inclusive services, better monthly prices, or the overall look, there are a couple of additional functionality and ecosystem needs to consider before moving forward.
1. Getting your staff on board. Your law practice staff needs to know if you are strongly considering making a change in programs. Remember, this is what they use to do what you need them to do each day. Advance notice of your decision gives them time to prepare and adjust to change. Depending on your employment relationship, they may also be able to provide their insight from an employee perspective on changes that come with switching software programs.
2. Organizing historic and current data before the switch. Know what data you want versus what you do not. Gathering data from years and years of service can be daunting but it is absolutely necessary. You may find that there is data you do not need to bring over. This also gives you and your staff an opportunity to become better organized with materials and processes.
3. Making a decision on migration. As an additional consideration to point two above, you need to determine if your data can come with you. Although it sounds strange, not all software can integrate together. When you are looking to take your data with you to a new system, in most instances this is called migration. When data migration is involved you need to know what is included, and what is not included, including costs, timeline, and down time.
4. Implementing the change. This is the most exciting part! With your staff on board and the software in your hands, your potential is unlimited! While it can be scary dipping your toes into a new program or a new anything, you can do it! Take our pro tip, however, and allow your practice time for transition and implementation. Give yourself and the staff time to adjust and make room for improvement. Be intentional about working together and learning from each other during this time of fine tuning.
We know that law practice management software can be confusing and, at times, overwhelming. While there are many considerations to think about, you do not have to do it alone! There are many ways to proceed when it comes to training your staff to support you, organizing your entire law practice and client information, getting the performance reports you need, and, of course, implementing it all. Here at Practice42, we can help to tailor your materials and processes to best suit your needs. Do not hesitate to give us a call at 850-933-5072 to schedule a complimentary Strategy Session.
