Before Purchasing Software:

1. Conduct a self-assessment

• What is your work style and ethic?
• What are your primary practice areas?
• Consider your current use and ownership of technology.
• What are your future plans for your practice and technology?
• The amount of time spent in the office and on the road
• How many support staff do you have?
• What is your experience/comfort level with technology?
• What are your absolute necessities?
• Determine your budget

2. Research

• Find out about vendors and software - the different options/solutions for your particular issue
• Read law office technology books and periodicals*
• Join technology-oriented discussion lists*
• Read discussion list archives*
• Ask your colleagues

3. Try it

• Download or request a demonstration/trial version of the software.
• Try the software on your desktop or network computers.
• Ask for on-line demonstrations of the software.
• If you have staff, have the staff try the software.

4. Evaluate it

• Compare your list of absolute necessities with the features the software offers
• Did the software meet your expectations?
• Did you feel comfortable with the "look" and "feel" of the software?
• Will the software help you get your work done faster?
• Is the price of the software within your budget?
• Is the software designed for the type of work you do?
• What does the staff think of the software?
• Does the software fit into your future goals?

5. Buy it

• Determine how many licenses you will need.
• Determine what is included in the price of the software.
• Determine whether you need a maintenance and support contract.
• Determine amount of training you and your staff will need.

6. Implement it

• Communicate to the staff when and by whom the software will be implemented
• Arrange for training for yourself and your staff
• Commit to using the new software
• Be positive and patient with yourself and your staff while in the transition period

7. Training

• Include training for yourself and your staff.
• Arrange for a company representative or a local consultant to come to your office.
• Set a training schedule and stick with it.
• Get training on new versions of the software when you upgrade, if necessary.

*See Researching Law Office Technology: Select Resources for help with resources.