The Web and the Future

Full Story

With CPA Inprotech – release 3.0, CPA Software Solutions sets a new standard for user-friendly attorney software. This innovative generation of modules grew out of our research into the needs of our clients, as Stephen Butler, from CPA Software Solutions, explains to Emma Jones.

What part does the web play in modern IP software solutions?
The web has become an invaluable tool for IP legal firms whether they work on a national or international basis. There are three general areas where web-based software can help IP firms. Firstly, it provides attorneys with an easy and inexpensive method of reaching their clients and accessing information. Secondly, it allows integration between multiple sources of information, such as documents, accounts and databases, which can all be brought together on the web. And finally, as ever more people become familiar with the browser, the hypertext page and the web page, incorporating their functionality into the working life of a law firm actually lowers training costs and encourages the use of technology in a way that handles information in a more effective way.

How is CPA looking to help firms through its new web-based modules?
Our aim is not to redevelop Window-based modules in a web environment but to gradually build on existing systems, beginning where the need is greatest. As a result of a well-designed robust data model, our web modules work in conjunction with our core client server modules, enabling them to be run simultaneously – they are extensions to the database, not re-creations.

‘Our aim was to facilitate the role of IP professionals by tailoring the capabilities of web-based software to suit their needs. The result was CPA Inprotech, a software solution that harnesses the full potential of the Internet.’

How did the new look CPA Inprotech come about?
When we decided to upgrade CPA Inprotech, we looked into the method in which our clients used the system. We discovered that the functionality needed by our clients very much depended on their role within the firm. It therefore made little sense to stick to one ‘data-focused’ system to be used by attorney, clients and clerical staff alike, and so we chose instead to develop a more people-focused approach to our software, developing modules tailored to each job role.

How does the new Professional WorkBench Module work?
IP professionals have long had their computer needs neglected. With the new Professional WorkBench Module the software has finally been put in place to assist their work. It facilitates the role of IP professionals by providing a single entry point for all their case and contact information, whether they are working at the office or off-site.

Work can be easily monitored in a calendar format and placed in order of priority for quick review of either forthcoming or completed work, whether over the previous 24 hours, week or month. There is a built-in ‘to do’ list to remind users of what stage their projects are at, and instructions can be passed to the docketing/records department.

The key to the system is the user interface. We have presented the system in a clear visual format in which information is presented quickly, but with easy-to-use functions for drilling down for more data. There is also a quick search facility for simple queries, an advanced search for more detailed enquiries and a reporting function.

Integration is crucial. As the WorkBench modules work ‘in context’, all information is accessible without jumping between systems. Letters, billing and debt details are available as required, and websites are accessed at the click of a button.

How will the Client WorkBench Module serve our clients’ needs?
Client WorkBench builds on the CPA’s Web Access Module to enhance the sharing of information between attorneys and their clients. While there are already web-based modules in the market place, allowing clients to access their case information via the Internet, we have taken that a step further. With our people-focused approach, we cater for all professionals involved in a client business, allowing them to review billing, receive reminders, send instructions and make their own reports within the system. And, as the module is hosted on the Internet, there’s no set-up required on individual workstations meaning that the front office, the back office and the client are all linked into one system by their relevant interfaces. In the not-too-distant future, we believe information will be able to flow seamlessly and electronically on a secure, cost effective, web-based module.

For more information on CPA Inprotech 3.0, please contact Elodie Brice at ebrice@cpaglobal.com

This article first appeared in IP Review, issue 9

Go to software archive