TimeSlice 2.2.4 - Aug/Sept '02

TimeSlice 2.2.4

TimeSlice 2.2.4 is a Maui Software product currently marketed by Casady & Greene Inc. You can either download an Internet package or order boxed software with an installation CD-ROM and electronic manual. TimeSlice originated as shareware, but has evolved into an inexpensive, interesting timekeeping package. It doesn’t, however, have an invoicing module. Timekeeping data must be exported to a word processing program, spreadsheet or database to prepare bills. While smaller offices might feel price and ease of use offset the absent billing module, I would counsel larger offices to use a more robust package such as Timeslips.

The boxed version includes a CD with the application, electronic manual in PDF (portable document format), and a FileMaker template that can be used for billing. Installing the package is achieved by copying the application folder to your hard drive. Once you serialize the application, it automatically can launch your default browser where you must register online. I found this annoying and an intrusion on how I control my own computer.

TimeSlice 2.2.4 runs in both Classic and Mac OS X, although I evaluated it only in OS 9.2.2. It installs no extensions, and was stable over an extended period of use. The electronic documentation is sparse, but adequate for learning TimeSlice basics. The program is based on “Tasks,” which consist of “Clients,” “Projects” and “Categories.” You can set hourly rates for any of the three divisions of “Tasks,” but I found working it more intuitive to bill by hours using the “Clients” division.

The manual states there is no “right” way to work in TimeSlice 2.2.4, but I advise any firm to use traditional attorney tasks such as “prepare interrogatories,” and “draft contract,” as a basis for establishing categories. Once you have established both “Clients” and “Categories,” you can create “Projects” for any of the clients you secure. “Projects” are TimeSlice’s way of establishing a file or matter for each client.

The real power of TimeSlice 2.2.4 resides in its “Preferences” pane, which permits you to establish universal parameters on how timekeeping occurs. Various tab preference sections enable you to set how time increments are displayed and rounded up or down, how hourly rates are determined, and what is displayed when you create a new time record. Other controls provide for automatic file saving, pausing open time records and various other parameters.

You create new time records by either clicking on a timekeeping icon, or using a menu or keyboard command while in the main window of the program. As time accumulates, select which client the record is billed to via drop-down menu. You can also select which “Category” is used, and which “Project” or matter the record will pertain to. Time records can be stopped or paused at any time. Double-click on the time record, and the program displays an “edit time card” screen where data can be edited manually, or where comments can be appended to the time record. This screen also permits you to assign the time record to another “Project,” “Category” or “Client.”

If you double-click on a previous, completed time record in the main window, it creates a new time record using the “Category,” “Client” and “Project” assigned to the previous time record. This default can be changed in the preferences section. TimeSlice permits you to set time and money budgets for each TimeSlice document.

The program also provides password and security functions, and the ability to search, sort and export time tracking data. Its features are fairly implemented, and for the most part, are easily explained.

For example, if you roll your cursor over any of the icons in the main application window, each of their functions are displayed in a small pop-up text menu. The program also exhibits good attention to detail such as providing a resizable main application window, or the option to display a floating “status bar” of accumulating time while working in another program.

While TimeSlice 2.2.4 provides extensive controls and preferences over time record keeping, it fairs poorly in key areas of invoicing and billing. For example, you can create an invoice for each time record, and mark it paid when received, but the program could not create an accounts receivable ledger. Also, the manual and Web site provide little information on how to export data to create a bill. Even the FileMaker export module called “TimeSlice Reporter” disclosed no information about how to use it.

Although Casady & Greene provides Web access to an online message board, technical support and “Frequently Asked Questions,” such information should be included with the program, rather than at an Internet site.

Casady & Greene Inc.
(800) 359-4920
www.casadyg.com

Price: $59.95; $29.95 upgrade

Mac OS 8.6 to 10.x

Reviewed by David A. Saraceno, a practicing attorney and operator of MotionLaw, a forensic animation consulting firm in Spokane, Wash.

Aug/Sept '02 Issue

PROS
Basic timekeeping package with many sophisticated features; Mac OS X compatible; extensive user controls with numerous preferences settings and management controls; password and security features; inexpensive.

CONS
Sparse documentation; some features not explained or implemented fully; no billing module and billing export capability.

VERDICT
Interesting timekeeping program for smaller law firms. Lack of billing module is limiting. Not recommended if you are looking for a comprehensive, all-encompassing legal software solution.