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Doug Painter Speaks at the
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 Doug Painter, Manager of Information Systems with the law firm of Denton & Keuler, LLP, spoke at the McCracken County Bar Association monthly meeting on April 19, 2004. Doug's presentation was, "Law Firm Technology: A Moving Target."Law firm technology, for the most part, has matured to the point that desktop applications such as word processing, calendaring, and E-mail no longer top the list of hot topics for law firms. Additionally, hardware for law firms has reached a plateau whereby firms are not having to replace computers as was the rule in the 1990s. Doug focused those in attendance on several evolving legal technologies and strategies that law firms need to be aware of, and he encouraged them to begin the process of educating themselves on the latest technology. A current hot topic for law firms is the decision to utilize wireless networking. The pitfalls of wireless networks and the vulnerability associated with the potential of compromising client confidential material was discussed. Lawyers are bound by stringent standards to exercise care in not divulging confidential information concerning their clients and care must be taken to insure that information is secure. Standards for wireless networks are evolving on a monthly basis, and firms who are moving to wireless systems must exercise caution. Computerland System Engineer, Brian Brinkley, was invited to share his experience with wireless networks. Brian shared his knowledge of the proper way to install and configure a wireless network to deter would-be hackers. Studies show that clients are interested in how a law firm utilizes technology to streamline legal services without compromising quality. The law firms that will do well will be those who use client-centric technologies that bring cost-saving ideas to the clients without the client's asking. National studies suggest that firms must focus on their client's needs as it relates to technology. Concepts such as Extranets, VPNs, Online and Web Content, and court room presentations are of particular interest to clients and they want a firm to be pro-active in offering innovate techniques in these areas. Web logs, a/k/a Blawgs or Blogs were discussed. A web log is an online journal that is frequently updated and intended for general consumption. Just as web sites were a novelty to law firms just 10 years ago, it is predicted that blogs will soon be as critical to a law firm as a dynamic web site. Law firm technology is ever evolving, and the firms that seek ways to harness the power of technology will be the firms that will succeed in the future. |
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Watch Doug's Tech Tip |
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