One of the ways in which today's lawyer can benefit from the advances in digital bookkeeping and record management is through the use of workflow automation. Workflow automation is a computerised system that allows for the automated processing of documents, matters and other types of paperwork according to a set of pre-configured rules.

With the ease of automating your existing processes as well as the relatively basic task of integrating the new software and familiarising yourself with its capabilities, there is a great deal of compelling evidence which points to the reliability and suitability of workflow automation to your practice. Here are just a few of the ways that workflow automation can benefit your firm:

• Unstructured processes and tasks such as sending emails, creating documents, workflow management, and other document filing and management procedures are handled quickly and accurately according to a set of predefined commands.
• Reduction of time spent on manual processes results in overall increased efficiency and more time for meeting with and building relationships with clients and engaging in other income producing activities.
• Automated procedural operations ensure protocols are followed by your entire staff and firm with precision and uniformity.
• Reduction in human error and unnecessary expenditures that typically result from mistakes, oversights and inaccuracies.
• Reduction in unnecessary costs of labour
• Enhanced compliance through timely and error free accounting and general processing
• Complete paperless accessibility to matters and documents via cloud storage and mobile application options
• Utilisation of modern computing and workflow automation processes gives firms a competitive edge in an age which is becoming increasingly digitised.
• Keeping up to date with technology enhances reputability and reliability.

The facts are certainly hard to refute and when you consider the long term practical solutions that lead to better time management and overall increases in work efficacy and capabilities, it would seem that making the case to switch to a reliable workflow automation process needs no further review. Processes which involve staff, paper documents, and specific procedures are organised and digitalised through workflow automation and this reduces excess expenditures, human error, and leads to a more streamlined, productive and efficient practice.

When you have made the decision to make the switch, keep in mind that the legal industry is a specialised field with its own unique requirements so be sure to choose software that is designed expressly for law firms and legal department services. In addition, take some time to select a software system which will be compatible with your current computing systems and one which will be advanced enough to not be outdated or obsolete in the next few years. While converting your current administrative procedures and legal document processing methods may seem like a daunting task, with the right software that is tailored to the legal industry and a little planning for the integration process, choosing to switch to workflow automation may be the most valuable decision you can make for the future of your practice.

To learn how a law firm gained ISO 9001 certification through the implementation of LawMaster's workflow automation technology, read the Case Study.