• Internet requirements
• Implementation
• Accounting
• Data security and confidentiality

Internet requirements

What type of Internet access is required?

As ActionStep is an online application and so you will need a reliable Internet connection.   The key word here is “Reliable”.  ActionStep does not require an unusual amount of bandwidth, however since it is the heart of your firm’s operations you need it to be responsive.  Some Internet connections are shared by businesses and homes in your neighborhood (like ADSL).   Shared connection can run slowly at peak times.

Most standard business-grade Internet connections are suitable for use with ActionStep, so chances are you’re all set to go.

However if you experience speed issues then you may want to talk to your Internet Service Provider (ISP) and ask for a Committed Information Rate (CIR) which will guarantee a certain minimum bandwidth for your connection at all times.

Implementation

How long does implementation take?

This all depends on your your specific circumstances.  You can start using ActionStep right away by entering your active matters and contacts directly.  However if you have a large contact database or matter history that you would like to import then this could take a little longer depending on what system you are migrating from.  Importing clean data typically only takes a few hours if you can extract the data to a spreadsheet.

If you are transitioning to ActionStep accounting then you will need to plan your cutover from your current system to ActionStep on a schedule that will suit you.

Accounting

What accounting systems does ActionStep support?

ActionStep includes its own fully-integrated accounting system that has everything you would expect in an accounting system, and then some.  The beauty of ActionStep’s accounting system is that nearly all transactions are entered within the matter workflow and hence are automatically linked to the matter, client, staff member, and step in the workflow.

However you don’t have to give up your accounting system if you prefer not to.  ActionStep can run along side other accounting systems and offers direct integration to Xero.  Direct integration with other online accounting systems is also possible.  Talk to us to find out more.

Data security and confidentiality

Is my data encrypted?

Can full backups of data be provided as an automatic download?

Who owns the intellectual property?