Choosing an ASP, though, is much more involved than purchasing software. Not every application should be outsourced, and not every firm should outsource. Before you unleash the hounds and set out to find the right ASP, keep these crucial points in mind. Start by reviewing the applications that you do, or want to, use. Law firm applications typically accessed via the Internet include document storage and retrieval, research, time and billing, electronic filing, calendaring and case management.
Some ASPs provide litigation-specific support.
There also are service providers geared toward integrating aspects of communications such as e-mail, listservs, instant messaging and video monitoring. In addition, ASPs are expanding into knowledge management applications and digital transcriptions access. ASPs save time and capital associated with software and hardware installation and employee training. They take over responsibility for specified firm functions. This means you need to select an ASP that you can trust.