Integrations connect different software and tools, allowing them to communicate with one another in order to transfer data and streamline workflow. When used properly, they create powerful efficiencies that reduce the amount of manual work law firms need to do.

Integrations are the connections between two different software, allowing data to flow from one to the other. This results in increased efficiency^[1] when data doesn’t need to be entered into two different systems or there’s no longer a need to switch back and forth from one software to another. These integrations also help with:

• Automating tasks
• Increasing productivity
• Creating additional time for staff to be spent on other work
• Increasing growth/scalability potential
• Reducing the number of errors due to elimination of double data entry
• Increasing collaboration and communication^[2]

Many programs designed for law firms come equipped with built-in integrations designed to work with your most-used tools. Direct examples of integrations that can save your firm time include:

• Access to cloud-based data storage such as Dropbox from directly within your practice management software
• Connection of phone call monitoring to your time tracking system,
• Linking your payment system to your billing program so any payments are automatically applied to the appropriate invoice

Setting up an integration doesn’t require you to switch applications. Instead, they allow you to continue using the same programs you’re familiar with while making them more effective. While more advanced or complicated applications may require custom coding, setting up these integrations is typically straight-forward and meant to be user-friendly.

Check to see which integrations your current software providers support^[3]. If there are opportunities to streamline workflows, connect programs to make it easier to exchange data between them. With this step, you’ll be eliminating unnecessary double data entry and switching between tools to complete tasks. Not every program offers integrations, which places limits on how much you’re able to cut down on redundancies between them.

References

1. Benefits of a Fully Integrated Business Software System
2. The Growing Importance of Data Integration Between Departments
3. How to Evaluate Software Integrations