Telephone Technology

Although telephones have been an integral part of law firms almost since their creation and patenting by Mr. Bell in 1876, they are not usually considered legal “technology”.

Using a phone as a device to verify, route, or relay communications, or to perform “work” means your company has one less item to deliver, maintain, or explain to each new employee. Additionally, using a phone removes the need to be “webby” or “techie” for end users, as most employees are fairly familiar with this basic office gadget.

Caution is advised with all free calling services and end-users really need to be wary of peer-to-peer networks due to reported issues with overall data collection, security and call quality. Even large and cleverly marketed VoIP services have increasing reports of poor customer service, poor call quality, and now difficulties in terminating the service. Remember, VoIP is an alternative to a traditional landline, not an equivalent!

Productive uses for each phone include:

distance learning distance learning is a great option for those working from home or for those in remote locations who don’t want to travel for hours to get to a “live” class. In many cases, courses offered by established associations offer CLE credits, making it easy for you to maintain your practice and CLE credits up to date. 😉

Considerations – Bring your “conference” into the “conference room” and invite others to attend and learn with you. You may not receive a CLE credit but still receive an education.

communication management Pairing Unified Messaging with a cell phone offers unlimited flexibility in controlling the deluge of information received every day. Unified Messaging provides a digital number that can be routed to a cell phone, home address, or other existing line or phone. From managing incoming calls to sophisticated voicemail and fax management, unified messaging is a great option for any mobile professional. Points to note: Available forwarding minutes and per-page limits for incoming faxes.

Dial in dictation For over a decade, doctors and hospitals have used simple dial-in voice recorders to process important patient reports and administrative/insurance forms. Contract with an established legal transcription company or find a reputable one Virtual Assistant to supplement the digital dictation process with the transcription of first drafts or extended secretarial functions.

recognition Map Processing New to the legal market is a company called Answer by phone allows account holders to accept and process credit card payments using just a phone.

Continued research in mobile technology means that much of what you see on the internet will be viewable on the small screens of cellphones. Look for advertisers and “push” technologies to cash in on millions of captive cell phone users in the not too distant future! Just one more reason why I LOVE my Treo!) 😉

Thanks to Andrea Cannavina | #Telephone #Technology