Hosted applications are easy to use because they have to be. Unlike traditional practice-management software, hosted applications cannot provide manuals, training sessions or user groups, so they have been built from the ground up to be intuitive. By maintaining complete, real-time invoicing information, a hosted application can streamline billing cycles from a few days to a few hours. In addition, the software can monitor accounts receivable, even notifying a firm of an overdue invoice via e-mail. The addition of a feature that allows the client to both view and pay online shortens the payment cycle even further.
Users can also monitor activity across clients and matters and manage budgets quickly and easily.
The application service provider adds new features and functionality, transparently to the user. The next time the timekeeper logs on, the enhanced software is ready to use. They also back up customer data regularly, as well as ensure that the system performs well and never runs out of capacity. With Web-based software, attorneys can easily share information with colleagues or clients, if desired. Many corporate law departments now require this, presenting a significant challenge to small firms.