Team Stress Reduced Through Adoption of Legal Case Management System

The benefits of a legal case management software system are far reaching. Broadly, they include:

* Time saved in document production, storage and retrieval and disseminating documents to relevant parties
* Saving on the costs connected with manual systems
* Creating standardized procedures across a team
* Concentrating on the value added of your professionals


Does legal software deliver the functionality it claims to do?
Oh yes, if deployed in a systematic, structured fashion. Success depends on:

Realistically scoping out the project and setting objectives
Whether you work in the public sector or private legal department you will need to demonstrate value when in investing in case management software. Select a supplier who will help you draft a clear vision of what is achievable within the project, together with a return on investment strategy and project schedule.

Capturing your Organization's Requirements

Have you communicated to all the people within the organization why the new system is being implemented? For example:

* Whose time will it save?
* Will it make more work for some people initially?
* Have you considered whether this will put them under increased pressure?
* Successful communication and hand holding before and during implementation will increase the likelihood of its success.
* Will your supplier support you in demonstrating the software's benefits to key decision makers?

Ownership of the project
Does your organization have a named person who is responsible for the implementation and ongoing success of the case management solution, or is it left totally to the Case Management Software?. They must a skilled communicator with all levels of the organization If you do not have such a person available internally, a consultant would be an alternative.

Staff Training
Who will provide the training to your staff? Will they work closely with the case management software supplier or can your supplier also offer training?

* Will any training be well planned or will it be on an ad hoc basis?
* How easy will it be for staff to adopt the new software??
* Will the software supplier and trainer work well together at both the planning and implementation phases?
* Does training schedule extend to other systems which interface with the new case management software?

Making sure your new case management software is right for you now
How adaptable is your new software and is it the best fit for your organization? So much case management software requires professionals to change their working practices to fit the system instead of the other way round! Can it be adapted for your organization so that the software matches your working practices? Flexibility is not necessarily a low cost option but in the long run it will pay for itself. Providing fee earners with case management solutions that match their working practices means they will enjoy using it, buy into the new system and it will make their lives easier. They will be able to complete work more efficiently and handle larger case loads, earning their organization more revenue. Ask for references and case studies from your supplier.

Will your System still be what you need in two, five or ten years' time?
Are there software updates available from your vendor? With technological advances, software needs to be adaptable. What future costs are there? Can you bolt-on further functionality (such as matter management) to your system at a later date to meet the changing needs of your legal work?.

{How to Use CFT Principles To Earning Extra Money in Internet marketing

In my article "The Difference Between Earning Cash and Loosing Cash In Web marketing is CFT" I described what CFT is, relative to an web business. (You can visit it by clicking on my author link at the end of the page). This additional article explains how to operate the principles of Critical focus time and get the best from it.

An easy error to make when you initially begin using CFT to your on line marketing venture is to think that a commitment to being focussed is sufficient to make it so. It is easy to begin really earnest and strong-minded, but not so easy to maintain your enthusiasm. Roughly 6 days into your fresh way of working you are liable to find out that forming a different habit is not as easy as just making up your mind to do so. CFT, similar to any internet marketing coaching skill or habit, involves constant effort.

So, don't anticipate that you will get your CFT right the first occasion you try it. The chances are you'll need to practise until it turns into second nature. At the same time as you are learning, accept that you'll make errors and allow that to be alright. When you view this in the perspective of learning a new competence you'll be more motivated to persevere with practising until you have mastered it and less disappointed if you've set backs.


These three suggestions will make your CFT bring higher returns:

1. Eliminate All Distractions

Turn off your phone, close your workplace door, and ask your family/colleagues not to disturb you for your prearranged period. Concentrate exclusively on the work you've defined and don't be tempted to carry out anything else.

2. Set A Timer

Start with twenty minute blocks if you are new to this, building up to what your optimum work block length is. You'll need to test and discover what is the best for you. However, don't go past forty five minutes as research has revealed that this is the maximum period of time we can focus for well.

3. Take Recurring Rests Between Sessions

Take rests, up to a maximum of 15 minutes for a three quarter of an hour block of work. Take that time to stand up from your desk and away from your computer. Tackle something that needs you to move your body.

So, now all that is outstanding is for you to make a commitment to how many chunks you will do daily. Begin slowly and build up and, remember, practice, practice, practice.

Say No To Potbellies

Many are alluded into believing that bodyshapers and shapewear are made primarily for women. Although men are pre-disposed to concealing their insecurities and pretending they have no qualms about their body, they too are susceptible to the popular perception of the 'ideal' man. After thorough research, it has been ascertained that men worry primarily about man boobs Thankfully there is an answer to this highly prevalent 'condition' amongst men. It is the men's bodyshaper.

Without working out, not eating, or plastic surgery, the new Men's BodyShaper is designed to take away 2-5 inches from the waist. Although this seems like a lofty claim, it is in fact very true. Many Hollywood stars use these men's bodyshapers to enhance their figure and look sleek and streamlined. So indeed, this is not a lofty claim. We have long been hearing about shapewear which enhances the figure of women, but we have not heard much about actual shapewear that is effective in reducing the appearance of man boobs on males.
I have been in countless situations where I am on a wedding date with a very good-looking male only to be turned off by a potbelly sticking out at the waist. Thankfully there is now a way to ensure one looks absolutely great in a tux- wear a men's body shaper.
The Cotton Compression Undershirt, the first shaping undershirt of it's kind, is a white, soft classic looking tee.

Additionally, this tee which is designed to have high stretch cotton comfort, has ergonomic, tapered shape for powerful body control, 36 gauge stitching for fabric longevity and durability, flat lock side seams which remain invisible under clothing, and natural cotton fibers which offer breathability and moisture control.
It seems that although many people try dieting and exercising, not many are able to sustain it. To those men who have trouble constantly staying on a diet and exercising at all times. And to those men who are genetically disposed to having man boobs, men's body shapers are the answer.

Keeping this thought in mind, Spanx has designed a shapewear garment for men, a previously under-served market. This men's bodyshaper is designed to firm the chest, flatten the stomach, improve posture, and support the lower back. Designed to be worn under business shirts, sweaters, and other outwear garments, they are made to do exactly what Spanx's shapewear for women is geared to do: enhance shape, create a streamlined look, improve appearance, and enhance posture.

Designed to be worn under clothes, they fit true to size. Sizes range from Chest inches thirty-four to fifty two, with 34-36 being a small, 38-40 being a medium, 42-44 being a large, 46-48 being an extra large, and 50-52 being extra extra large.
Already a leading manufacturer in "shapewear" for woman, Spanx, Inc,and thus the U.S. undergarment manufacturing company founded by Sara Blakely has stepped into the men's shapewear market by introducing men's shapewear undershirts.With global retail sales for Spanx products exceeding $750 million dollars in 2008, 5.4 million power panties sold since 2000, Spanx is now taking a conscious effort to constantly expand it's collection with products that continue to enhance and expand the consumer's body image.

Leading retail stores will sell Spanx's latest introduction to it's line. Stores such as Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdales, Dilliard's, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Nordstrom's will be selling the undershirts.The new Men's Shapewear undershirt is also available at Spanx's online store - wwwspanx.com.

Mastering Effective Communication for New Managers

Whether this new managerial position simply landed on your lap or you impressed the right people with your skills and experience, planning about your success early can do your career a lot of good. It might not show, but managing people is one of the hardest part of being a manager. Consequently, the efforts that you make when you begin your new role will set the tone for the future of your career.

Management training program creators try this course management system now offering a free trial.

Handling your team should be your first priority, besides the other tasks that you do. First you should know that regardless of the kind of management strategies you will engage in, the end-goal is for you and your team members to learn from each other throughout your relationship. And because you are the manager, you are responsible for establishing that give and take relationship.

If you and your team are not looking at the same goal at the end of the day, then there is a huge need to reassess your priorities. With tough luck, you will have employees who are smarter than you and who know their jobs better than you do. However, do not see this as a threat but instead take this as an opportunity. After all, your success as a manager will be based on the quality of work done by your teams.

A lot of supervisors do not realize the importance of learning from their employees. Oftentimes, what they do not see is the importance of learning from a mutual and continual process as opposed to authority and control. Sharing the learning experience will foster a relationship based on respect. Work relationships molded from respect lead to improved performance.

That is why, your strategy should focus on the quality of your communications as well as your accessibility as a manager.

One way is to implement and teach effective communication. Your caliber as a leader will depend on how effective your communication is with your people. Although it sounds easy to do, maintain proper communication is nothing easy. It is much more than the spoken word; it is about being able to express an accurate message through tone and body language as well as to understand the real message that you are receiving in return. Keeping an open communication, having the ability to adapt your style with the different sets of audiences as well as the steps that you take to make sure that everyone is one the same boat is vital. If you spend time nurturing your communication skills as a manager, everyone will reap the benefits.

Management articles of interest to you? Check out this article about tips for new managers.

Team Building Program : The Key To Team Spirit

A team is normally defined as a group of people that works together toward a common objective. This also holds true for project management. In this case it is the project that is the common objective and the individual members will have to work together in order to achieve it.

In truth this is never easy. There will always be problem when you have to work with a group of people. This is why companies do not hesitate to spend a lot of money so as to enhance the team spirit within the organization.

Below there are 3 team building programs that are normally used in organization.

Cooking class

There are indeed some companies that make use of cooking class in order to enhance the team spirit with their organization. With this activity they will be called to solve a particular problem (in this case preparing the lunch) by working in groups. This can indeed be a fun and very effective way to build team spirit.

Short video-clip making

The team will generally be asked to create a small video. Normally this should be funny in order to create a lighter atmosphere but there are many variants of this. Another variant might require that the team set up an entire advertising campaign. Some restriction can be applied to make the game more interesting.

Outdoor activities

There are some companies that might prefer to make use of outdoor activities like canyoneering in order to build team spirit. This type of activities has the added advantage of allowing your staff to take some fresh air.

Written by Robert Bellarmine for www.visitask.com
Team building program is just one of the determinants of whether your project is going to be successful or not. Download our free project management efficiency evaluator at
project management efficiency evaluator so as to get more info about the success rate of your projects.

Business Risks And The Assessment

Businesses are run certain ways. Let’s talk about business risks. You can go into a business without risk, only the risk of your time if you do it properly. It sounds kind of off a little bit because everyone looks at businesses with some sort of risk. It becomes risky if you don’t do your correct market research. Let me ask you something; why are you doing business online? It can be easier to do and your stats are all in one place. You can find out about how a business will operate before risking your money.

Ask your SEO specialist. Trading systems are interesting too. You can back test a lot before putting your money into the market. The way you do things is the way you do things. With trading systems, it’s all about how much money you will have come in at the end of the day as a direct result of your trading system. It’s no different than gambling, because you have to have a system for each in order to be successful.

Previous to putting my money into something, I make a plan. The outcome might be uncertain, but you have to try at certain things. Your system can only be a good one if you test it while you’re conducting your business. That works with anything you’re working with trading, gambling etc.

It’s the basic example of someone that I know who was a crafty guy that did a great deal of banner advertisement in his particular niche. We were talking about hot traffic trends. It’s funny because I remember doing all this stuff in the past, so it was like taking a trip back into time. He did really well in what he did, but it’s a game that you have to play with using your own money. It’s not the same as free traffic. You have a certain amount of money to play with in your business.

Take a look at this example. You’ll be paying a certain amount of money over the course of a year. You want to get a certain amount of impression. The whole thing really looks good. Being that it had a PR 7 as its web ranking and they even gave a link back to the person’s web site. It sure looked good.

This is what I said to him. This looks good on paper, so why not write them and ask them for a free trial. We would sign up for 12 months where we’d have a one month option to try it out and if we didn’t like the results we could cancel our plan. They never went for the deal we made, but there is no sense in not trying to ask. That is how you get to certain levels in business. It’s all about taking business risks in stride.

The Benefits of an Out of Town Office

Locating an office out of the town centre can have significant benefits for staff and for the efficient running of the business. There are a number of factors to take into account that can drive the decision to locate on the edge of a town or city.

Most new office developments are in locations that offer excellent communication links. In many cases they will be in close proximity to motorways or railway stations, which allow staff to easily commute to work. This is in sharp contrast with sitting endlessly in queues of traffic trying to get to a city centre location. Even public transport cannot offer the same advantages as a commute to work by bicycle or car to a location with plenty of free parking on one of the many new landscaped business parks around our towns and cities. With a less stressful commute, staff arrive fresh and ready to work.

Out of town does not mean away from facilities – far from it. With many well-developed retail outlets and shopping centres on the outskirts of town, it can be easier for staff to go shopping than if they were to be located in the city centre. Equally, if they need to get into town it can be a far easier journey during the day than at rush hour.

The vast majority of city centre offices are relatively old, making it expensive and difficult to install state of the art office furniture and infrastructure such as IT networks. Modern, fresh and spacious out of town offices are well suited to the business needs of today and the units can sometimes be made available on a modular basis meaning that expansion or sub-letting may well be a possibility.

With staff satisfaction becoming an ever more important factor in achieving customer excellence and improving loyalty, new out of town office accommodation with its spacious and modern, air conditioned facilities can be a great pull. For the same commute time, a staff member can live proportionately further away from the office than if they had to get into a city centre or use public transport. That means they can, if they wish, live further into the country or, ironically, in town centres where they would have a 'reverse commute' against the main flow of peak time traffic.

The relative explosion in the services sector has led to the rapid development of out of town office complexes. The advantage is that many businesses on the campus will be new to the area and this helps to generate a sense of community. The high headcount on many such campuses also means that budget hotels and food chains may well have established themselves close by, providing good access to sustenance and temporary accommodation for staff and visitors alike.

With landscaped surroundings and fresh air appeal, the out of town development can be a far more pleasant environment in which to work than a congested, noisy and polluted town or city centre with a stressful commute.

Image Credit: Gerry Balding

Ten Body Language Signals That Can Help You Negotiate More Positively

When learning the art of effective business negotiation, there are various techniques and approaches you can take to improve your negotiation effectiveness. One of the crucial elements is learning to read body language and the non-verbal communication clues that the other person is giving to you when discussing business. It's estimated that over 70% of communication is non-verbal and can be picked up by accurately reading body language if you know what you are doing.

Watching every move

One of the most valuable lessons for interpreting body language correctly in business negotiations is the ability to tell whether or not a person is telling the truth. The reader must take care not to stare too overtly, but pay attention to subtle clues as the conversation evolves. Stick to friendly and non-threatening eye contact and keep your own body language neutral and welcome - avoid crossing your arms or looking threatening.

Two stages

Firstly you should watch the other person's mannerisms during the initial friendly stage of the conversation when you are breaking the ice and getting to know each other. Build a rapport whilst watching carefully as this will give you the baseline information about their behaviour and it does take time to be adept at it. You will then be able to see whether their behaviour starts to change visibly once the negotiation stage begins. A skilled reader of body language will immediately be able to tell if the other person is putting on an act.

Examples of this type of body language are seen in games such as poker - players who behave in aggressive and brash ways, hurling their chips onto the table, may be masking the reality of a weak hand. For business execs who are over talking and demonstrating behaviour such as loud backslapping may actually have very little to offer in a negotiation situation.

Clues to get the upper hand

Experts suggest that a person's face and hands are the main things to look at when negotiating. Tics such as lip biting, hair twirling or pulling, rapid eye blinking, throat clearing and face rubbing all suggest distress and a person on the back foot. A person who starts to breathe more rapidly may also not be telling the truth - look at the rise and fall of their shoulders for the clue.

Even those who are skilled in the art of negotiation and expression masking may still give away signs of deception through their bodies - such as rubbing their nose, covering their mouth when they talk and leaning away from the other negotiator. If you see these signals during a critical point in the negotiations, you may have spotted the signs of a lie. Experts believe that these signals are non-verbal signals of guilt!

Building rapport

You can also use your own body language to help lead the negotiations in the right direction. If you let your palms face out and use expansive welcoming gestures, you will come across as being open and honest. Also wear clothing that makes you look competent and assured without being intimidating. Keep eye contact to show that you have nothing to hide - if you find it hard to look at someone's eyes directly then look at a point on their face. With groups make sure you look at everyone, particularly the decision makers.

Cultural differences

Bear in mind that different cultures have different norms. For example, an American may be more comfortable standing closer to another person in negotiations than a European person. Take care to understand these norms before you negotiate.

Image source: US Mission Geneva