There are many industries where data protection is paramount for the trust and security of staff and clients alike. Law firms require the highest levels of IT security possible. Equally, having flexibility in working is essential too. To allow these two requirements to align, we take a look at some IT best practices for law firms.
Utilise Cloud-Based Technologies As Best Practice For Law Firms
Whereas in the past many law firms have worked on shared servers, these are fast becoming outdated and cumbersome. By utilising cloud-based platforms, information and data are accessible to all employees regardless of where they are. This is perfect for allowing working on the go, or hybrid working where time is spent between home, court and chambers. It allows any user to access training materials and client information without searching drives or physical files, and lets you connect for online meetings more easily.
Implementing Advanced IT Security For Law Firms
While the cloud is a fantastic way to allow law firms to embrace hybrid working – the new normal across the globe – this should not be put into place without consideration for proper data security and encryption. Especially for those working on potentially unsecured Wi-Fi networks, it is vital to secure data and emails wherever employees and clients may be. VPN solutions and multi-factor authentication are two IT security best practices for law firms that can make remote work safer.
Choose Flexible IT Support
Sometimes IT can go wrong; no system or platform is without issues. As lawyers may be working around the clock, and perhaps even around the world, it is essential to ensure that they have the support they need wherever they are. Having 24/7 IT support available is a great way to keep productivity up and prevent minor issues from becoming major problems.
Adopt VoIP And Unified Communication Solutions
You may be using primarily landline telephones in an office and providing staff with smartphones for their on-the-go working, but there is a much more flexible option. VoIP phone systems – and Microsoft Teams configured as a phone system – can allow you to make phone calls using your laptop, which means that as long as someone is online, they can always be making and receiving calls. This can create a better sense of connectedness and does not rely on being chained to a desk.
With these IT best practices for law firms in place, it is much easier to keep your IT systems secure, flexible, and scalable where needed.
Akita is a professional IT partner to law firms and legal chambers across London and the South East. For more info, read our case study:
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