Switching to a new practice management system is no small feat—especially for a large, multi-departmental law firm like Levi Solicitors. With offices in Leeds and London, the firm recently moved to Actionstep, a cloud-based legal practice management and workflow platform designed to modernise and streamline operations. While Actionstep's native Outlook add-in already provides the ability to file emails and record time directly within Microsoft Outlook, Levi Solicitors sought additional automation to streamline this process further.
To enhance the existing functionality, Xperate was recommended by Actionstep to design and develop a bespoke Outlook add-in. This innovative solution, compatible with both desktop and browser-based versions of Outlook, builds upon the existing one-click email filing and time recording features by automating time recording when an email is filed, providing additional efficiency for fee earners.
Understanding the Challenge
Levi Solicitors knew that Actionstep would enhance their processes, but they needed a way to efficiently manage emails and time tracking within Outlook. Without a native solution, they risked a more time-consuming, manual process that could slow down workflows. To address this, Xperate worked closely with Levi Solicitors’ fee earners and IT Director to understand their requirements and develop a tailored solution that truly meets their needs.
The Xperate Solution
Our custom-built Outlook add-in connects all the dots between client communications, time recording, and practice management. With a single click, emails and time entries can be logged directly within Actionstep, significantly reducing admin time and ensuring up-to-date client records.
Philip Bradley, Software Development Manager at Levi Solicitors, explains:
“When we made the decision to move to Actionstep we realised the value of its native ability to file emails and time record directly within Outlook. However, to enhance this functionality, Xperate developed a bespoke add-in that automates time recording when emails are filed. We worked closely with Xperate to refine the design, ensuring a seamless and efficient experience for our fee earners, and are delighted with the results.”
Transforming Legal Workflows
For law firms like Levi Solicitors, efficiency and accuracy are critical. Our integration ensures that client matters are always up to date, administrative burdens are minimised, and behind-the-scenes processes run smoothly—benefits that ultimately enhance the client experience.
Mark Garnish, COO at Xperate, adds:
“Many law firms hesitate to transition to new practice management platforms because they fear losing key functionalities. This project is a perfect example of how tailored software solutions can enhance existing capabilities. Our expertise lies in ensuring firms get the most out of their IT investments by designing integrations that add value and improve efficiency.”
Helping Law Firms Transition with Confidence
At Xperate, we specialise in developing tailored software solutions for law firms transitioning to new systems. We understand that no practice management platform will tick every box straight off of the shelf - but that’s where we step in. Whether it’s a seamless Outlook integration, an automation solution, or a completely bespoke tool, our expert developers ensure that firms can maximise efficiency and get the most value from their technology.
If your firm is considering a new practice management system, Xperate provides expert consultation and development services to enhance existing functionalities and create bespoke solutions that streamline operations and improve efficiency.
Ready to Transform Your Law Firm’s Workflow?
Contact Xperate to discuss your firm’s unique needs and see how we can create a solution that works for you.