Budget Planning

Simplifying the Complex:
Key Considerations for Your Law Firm’s Technology Budget

October 27, 2023

As technology continues to advance at an unprecedented rate, the task of budgeting for a law firm’s technology needs is only getting more complex. To help simplify this process, here are some key considerations to keep in mind.

Where Do You Want Your Firm’s Technology to Be in 3 Years?

  • Gathering input from all stakeholders.
  • Setting clear objectives for your technology goals.
  • Prioritizing investments based on these objectives.
  • Allocating funds accordingly.

Cornerstone.IT strategic consultants can guide you through this process.

Laying the Groundwork: The Technology Roadmap

Once you have a clear vision, it’s time to lay the groundwork with a technology roadmap. This begins with:

Maximizing What You Already Have

  • Know your tech stack: Understand what software you currently have, what needs upgrading, what is outdated, or no longer integrates with your other systems.
  • Understand your licenses: Be aware of what software your licenses include, how many licenses you have, when they expire, and any promotions that may be available.
  • Review your hardware inventory: Determine what needs to be updated, replaced, or eliminated.
  • Review your vendor contracts: Identify what is up for renewal and what contracts you should renegotiate.

Cornerstone.IT has been helping law firms succeed by offering customized strategic Technology Roadmaps.

Investing in Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity should be a top priority for any law firm. This involves:

  • Investing time to understand your cybersecurity policy.
  • Staying informed on policy changes.
  • Ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations.
  • Understanding how your cybersecurity measures impact your cybersecurity insurance.

Cornerstone.IT is committed to your data security. We work with premiere cybersecurity experts to ensure you are following industry best practices and compliance.

Maintaining and Supporting Your Technology

As your technology infrastructure grows, so will your maintenance and support needs. Consider:

  • Whether your current staff can handle all the work.
  • Preparing for growing maintenance and support needs.
  • Learning how outsourcing can deliver better results and save time and money.

Cornerstone.IT has a 24/7 dedicated Network Operations Center that is there when you need them and always working in the background to provide you with the best peace of mind.

Having a Disaster and Recovery Plan

Every firm should have a robust disaster and recovery plan. This includes regular updates, monitoring and reporting, and including a contingency plan.

Cornerstone’s strategic planning keeps security and disaster recover in mind.

Documenting Policies and Processes

Finally, ensure that all policies and processes are well-documented. This includes policies for compliance, cybersecurity, review and approval processes, disaster and recovery plans, and contingencies.

By keeping these considerations in mind during the budget season, you can help ensure that your law firm is well-prepared for the technological challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Remember, the goal is not just to survive but to thrive in this ever-evolving digital landscape.

Cornerstone makes sure that our recommendations and work processes are clearly documented and communicated with the designated client contacts. We comply and adhere to NIST 800 171 standards.

Contact us

To learn more about how Cornerstone’s reliable, secure, and efficient Professional IT and Managed Services can help your firm grow.

Cornerstone.IT