Harris Cartier LLP modernises systems with SOS Connect

One of the largest law firms in the Thames Valley – Harris Cartier LLP – is modernising its legal software fundamentally with a switch to SOS Connect from Solicitors Own Software (SOS). SOS Connect will replace the current Axxia system in order to achieve standardised procedures, easier to use systems, improved management information and the extension of case management to more departments.

Founded in 1922 Harris Cartier operates from offices in Slough and London providing a wide range of commercial and private client legal services.

Chief executive David McIntosh, commenting on the IT modernisation programme, said: "The initial driver was the need to become more competitive in an increasingly competitive marketplace. Our old IT system was not as easy to use as we would like and no longer met our business requirements fully. We were looking for an integrated system that would enable us to instil standard, best practices and be so easy to use that we could ensure adoption and widespread use of the new system's features by the whole firm."

From a short list of software suppliers, which included the incumbent supplier LexisNexis Axxia and IRIS with Law Business Software, Harris Cartier selected SOS Connect for a number of reasons including the intuitive nature of the software. "We liked the way that e-mails are captured and automatically stored into each case, the automation of time recording and the ability for partners to create management reports without redress to the IT department," said David McIntosh. "Having a more straightforward and user-friendly system means that we also plan to extend case management to new departments in addition to personal injury and conveyancing and use SOS Connect for customer relationship management. This is a fundamental change to the way we operate and one that we expect to greatly improve efficiency and our service to clients."

SOS Connect is expected to go live for over 60 users in the Slough and London offices of Harris Cartier in the autumn.

David McNamara, managing director of SOS said: "Often we tend to overlook the importance of SOS Connect being intuitive and easy to use. It is a very significant advantage in helping a firm to gain buy-in from staff and therefore commitment to use the system to best effect throughout the firm. The more extensively the software is used the faster the return on investment. We look forward to assisting Harris Cartier in updating their systems and being able to meet the challenges ahead."