VERTX SYSTEMS, LLC launches FileOn for the Fairfield County, CT area Attorneys
On January 15, 2003, Mr. Shahjahan, started to research the document management, archive and storage challenges that a few clients were facing in the Fairfield County, CT area. These clients had an interest in investing in a document management company and open a branch office in the CT area. The initial licensing fees were approximately $75,000 and an additional $50,000 to start up operations.
Mr. Shahjahan was requested to explore alternatives to the above licensing fees, and the hunt for alternative technologies and solutions initiated. In conducting a through research, it was clear that the technology has come a long way from the early 1990's when paper-less-office initiatives were far from reality. However, the technology was expensive and it was difficult to integrate and produce a single solution. The initial analysis suggested that it would cost close to $250,000 for infrastructure and a minimum of $450,000 for operations for 6 to 8 months.
The costs seemed high, until you consider the different skilled resources that's required to develop a service such as the Auto Archive Service offered by FileOn. The key team would consist of: Technology Architect, a few Developers, Network Support staff, connectivity to the Internet, Security Specialists, Legal Council and Operations staff.
From his research, it was clear why large corporations were implementing paper-to-digital document management systems and improving upon costs savings while the small-to-midsize firms were having greater difficulty competing with them. It's just too costly for the smaller firms to take advantage of such technology. Since attorneys are used to paper, they stay with what's familiar and add on paralegal or administrative support as the paper-work gets much to handle. While these attorneys are looking up paper files and faxing the old fashion way, there counter parts (larger firms and technology savvy peers) are running circles around them.
It was clear by March, 2003, that there was a need for Attorney's with small-to-midsize practices to try a service such as FileOn. These small practices are basically the same as a "mom & pop" small business. They need to develop a network of clients, hope that they'll receive repeat business and everyday hustle for new business. These small law firms have too much to do on a daily basis, working long hours, often 12 to 14 hour days, and risk having clients who are unhappy due to incomplete paper work or missed phone calls.
The decision to launch the FileOn division was made and a team of talented staff organized to develop the Auto Archive Service. Look for this new service in your area soon.
Published April 1, 2003
