Many distinct types of attorneys specialize in a variety of legal problems.

 

These fields can cover bankruptcy, employment, intellectual property, and many other practices. But one thing every lawyer has in common is the ability to leverage technology to enhance workflows, gather insights, and expand their career horizons.

 

It can be a little daunting to survey the ever-changing technology landscape.

 

But the legal industry is transforming the way business runs contract management, cloud computing, AI, applications, and much more.

 

Let’s explore tech tools that make contract management easier for lawyers.

 

Tech Tools

 

Data Backup Tools.

 

If content is king… Make sure you protect the king.

 

Before you begin a large project, it’s important to decide how you’ll back up your progress.

 

This is especially necessary for legal departments with a lot of clients that involve high-value pursuits.

 

A reliable backup tool should consist of the following criteria:

 

• Ecosystem: Whichever platform you choose, it should back up your work and be accessible from every device you use. This end-to-end coverage means data is recoverable no matter where you are.
• Cloud service: Physical hardware can fail. Backing up to the cloud provides extra protection.
• Security: The best data storage options encrypt your data.

 

Here are some trusted names for backup tools.

 

• Dropbox — One of the most well-known and trusted cloud storage solutions.
• com — Sync.com is highly rated for its business-grade editions.
• LexWorkplace — A legal-centric document management system. Microsoft Office and Outlook integration can sync document tagging/profiling as well.
• Tresorit — Minimalist design that also replicates files on multiple servers to reduce the risk of a data breach.
• pCloud — Offers many collaboration tools and multi-layer protection.

 

Relying less on paper and adopting digital storage means more time saved and quick access to searchable content for legal department processes.

 

We also recommend using at least two backup plans because nothing is foolproof.

 

Communication Tools

 

Numerous law firms prefer restricted-access, internal communication systems that also include calendaring features to assign tasks and make notes.

 

Luckily, communication platforms help lawyers interact with teams and clients to create better messaging experiences. Here are some key benefits when embracing modern tools for more dependable communication.

 

• Associate/Client communication: Clear lines of communication between parties means achieving milestones quicker.
• Interdepartmental cooperation: Meeting minutes can help track project development. But modern tools can track, record, and make virtually anything searchable for future reference.
• Easier Collaboration: Tech tools can automate sharing for quicker collaboration instead of losing time on back-and-forth office visitations.

 

A great all-in-one messaging platform can improve communication channels. Lawyers can benefit from the following platforms.

 

• Google Hangouts — Video calls and chat functionality makes this platform one of the most popular messaging solutions.
• GoToMeeting — Able to send e-invites to clients through email and social media handles.
• Office 365 — Integration of Outlook, Word, Skype, and OneDrive makes this platform versatile for lawyers.
• Slack — One of the most used apps for enterprises. It also contains a central hub for sharing case data with project members.
• me — A quick and easy meeting tool to discuss projects and share files.

 

Your team needs to agree on the messaging platform that works best for them. After that, it’ll be easier to maintain messaging synergy.

 

These tech tools are already used daily to maintain e-billing systems, court calendars, case management and other relevant obligations unique to lawyers.

 

Lawyers also use AI services to automate their daily tasks. Companies like Evisort make scanning contracts for problematic clauses and terms much easier compared to manual reviews.

 

We’re not saying these tools don’t place new demands on lawyers. But instant access to information and team member communication can give lawyers a fighting chance to meet and exceed expectations in an increasingly competitive legal industry.

 

Image Source: BigStock.com (licensed)

 

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