The standard DOS file name format contains 8 letters, a dot and a 3-letter extension. Computer users tend to develop their own obscure short forms and codes for file names. If anyone else is to have access to files on the computer when the main user is not available, the new user will have to be able to get around the hard drive. Protocols for file and directory names will be needed, even if the firm invests in document management software. A related issue is making sure that the latest version of documents are clearly identified as such.
Precedents take on a different importance in a technologically advanced law office.
Document generation programs based on the merge function of word processing software require a re-thinking of what is involved in developing a precedent. The spectacular time savings attributed to computers can be achieved only if a tremendous amount of time is invested in restructuring your precedents so they feed the technology. There are numerous other aspects of word processing technology that need to be managed. The bottom line is that the computer is just a tool to be used to get a job done.