Lessons I found most helpful included setting up fields on forms (although the programming language, JavaScript, is barely mentioned in only two spots), and generating an indexed, linked collection of PDF documents for publication on a Web site. Each lesson concludes with suggested topics to experiment with on your own, and a compact review of each lesson's main points. I found a couple of disappointments with the Classroom in a Book format. Presumably the Adobe publishing staff will be able to eliminate editor's notes intended for reviewers for the third edition. Most annoying were instances where topics were abruptly cut short unnecessarily with the suggestion to refer to the electronic Acrobat Guide for instruction.
In short, I found the Adobe Acrobat 4.0 Classroom in a Book to be of professional quality and very helpful, a good value at the discounted price. Presumably the savings achieved by not shipping Acrobat with printed documentation was reflected in the cost of the software, but I'm firmly in the camp of those who believe that software companies should provide printed documents, if only to be used while sitting in front of the computer. Electronic guides are inadequate for that purpose unless you have a large video display, and I've yet to see an electronic user guide that functions by candlelight.
By Adrienne Albrecht
AbacusLaw 13 is a lawyer docketing and case management program. Installation was easy and intuitive. We were able to install it on our Windows NT network within minutes with no difficulty whatsoever and with only a cursory glance at the directions. Once installed, we found the user interface attractive and easy to follow. The user has the freedom to set up his or her own list of activities; or to simply adopt the ABA codes; which are already built in.
My paralegal found the interface both easy and efficient. It did not take her unnecessary steps, in her opinion, to create a new entry in the calendar. Further, the calendar tracks client information easily. She did not have to refer to the help documentation in order to perform basic functions. Also, the program did not require customization in order to employ terms that our office found comfortable. They were already built into it.
In addition, the conflict checking feature and ticklering functions are well designed and useful. We found that there were no appreciable delays or error incidents when we operated Amicus over the network. The calendar prints out in a useful format and synchronization software is available for the palm pilot operating system. We did not fully explore its linking features; because we don't currently use the programs that it supports. It has statute of limitations dates built in for California users; but Illinois firms will have to create their own limitations parameters.
However, we did find a serious limitation to be its integration with other software. AmicusLaw supports links with Timeslips, HotDocs, and PcLaw. It does not easily integrate with other software. Despite repeat calls to technical support, I was unable to import data from Microsoft Outlook, Lotus Organizer, or the time and billing program our office currently uses. Amicus will import from only comma delimited, and dbaseIII. No matter how I tried to manipulate the database, I could not successfully import using comma delimited. Attempting to import using dbase as an interchange format was not successful; apparently because the source programs did not export in dbaseIII; which is the only format that Amicus will support.
Therefore, my conclusion was that AmicusLaw is a terrific docketing program for users who do not already have a database of clients to import. It is also useful for users of PcLaw and Timeslips. Otherwise, potential users will find the difficulty of importing and exporting data burdensome. Since one of its significant features is conflict of interest checking; importing the user's existing database is a significant barrier to full functionality.
The cost of AbacusLaw 13 is $199 per user; the advanced edition, costs $299 per user. The advanced edition is required in order to link with Timeslips, PcLaw, and HotDocs. Abacus does not have a downloadable trial demo there; but they do post information and allow ordering from their Website at www.abacuslaw.com.
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