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GAZETTE
processing and word-processing, i.e., the interpretation
of transaction details as against merely adjusting text. A
useful feature is immediate access to client information
on screen, e.g., file opened date, property, current
status report. A solicitor's professional time is valuable.
The fee-earner's working hours are more expensive than
those of secretarial staff. By introducing support
systems designed to perform repetitive professional
tasks, program developers have attempted to realise the
true fee-earning potential of the solicitor. However, a
standard word-processor would appear ideal for any
practice consisting largely of complex, non-routine
matters. An event-driven program will automatically
perform the chores of everyday correspondence and
documentation, while providing instant review of
current files.
Of interest perhaps to larger firms is the availability
of communications facilities linked with an external
database. The computer may access legal information
such as the texts of decided cases reported in the Irish
Reports, United Kingdom Law Reports, etc. Use of the
system costs an initial fee together with an annual
subscription. Legal research is not, however, an
immediate requirement for the average practitioner. He
may not have sufficient occasion to use such a facility so
as to justify the expense.
Computer terminology is notoriously obscure.
Technology professionals seem to derive great pleasure
from blinding the uninitiated with scientific jargon in
the false belief that the layman is impressed. When
dealing with suppliers, insist that they speak English.
JULY/AUGUST
1
Computerese is not yet an officially recognised
language. There are, nevertheless, certain terms that
cannot be avoided. The Law Society handbook includes
a useful glossary of definitions for reference purposes.
At the outset, when the decision is made to invest,
your first priority must be software. Software is a word
used in contrast to hardware (the physical machine) and
refers to all programs which can be used on a particular
computer system. More specifically, it applies to
programs which may assist the user of a computer to
make the best use of the equipment. Packaged or
application software has been developed to perform
certain defined routines, e.g., word-processing, payroll,
accounts, debt-collection, conveyancing. Hardware
denotes the physical units constituting a computer
system — the apparatus as opposed to the programs or
software. While your hardware will almost certainly
form the most expensive part of the transaction, it is not
the most important. Apart from price, machines only
vary according to their speed and capacity. One
computer may be more pleasing to the eye than another
but, in practical terms, the equipment will perform the
same basic functions as any other. What transforms the
computer from a dead tool into a technological marvel
is the quality of software. Ideally, in the purchase of a
computer system, you should first look at the available
software programs. Select that which most closely
fulfils your requirements. At that stage, base your
choice of hardware on whether the program is
compatible with it, i.e., will the software operate on that
equipment? Buying a machine and then searching for
BALCOMBES
The Loss Assessors
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