thinkDOCS - Feb/Mar '01

thinkDOCS

Well, here I am, expecting great things from a program called thinkDOCS by DataTech Software Inc. I hate thinking when it comes to software. I always want the lowest common denominator, as does my support staff — the easier the learning curve, the better. While using this program, I kept saying, “I think it can.” And it almost did.

With this program, I expected it to make document assembly easy, but this isn’t necessarily the case. For those familiar with HotDocs, this is basically the same type of program.

The installation is easy (all on one CD). The main limitation is this program is set up for Microsoft Word only, not WordPerfect. And even though a tutorial is listed in the “Main” menu, it’s misleading. It’s not really a tutorial. Rather, it’s like a traditional written help index. The program includes a Wizard-style function, which walks the user through a task in the main program and should be easily accessible. It may be in there somewhere, but if it is, it’s not easily accessible.

To begin document assembly with this program, first select the template you want to complete. Then you select or create a client, and finally you select or create a case for that client. To create a case or client, you can enter minimal information such as the name of the case or client. You can enter more information if you want. You then complete the template by filling out the template-specific dialog box. This data is saved into the database and will automatically fill into future templates for that case or client.

One great thing about the program is it’s easily networkable. And it has a seemingly unlimited number of fields that could be entered. Apparently this program is set up to be used with Quick & Easy, DataTech’s practice-specific automated legal forms software.

ThinkDOCS has a useful “Clause” function that lets you build a library of clauses, which can be inserted into any document created in your library.

If you need an expandable document assembly program, then you could give this program some consideration. This program isn’t the best, but despite some challenges, it demonstrates some real potential.

DataTech Software Inc.
(800) 556-7526
www.thinkdocs.com

2-user license $699, 5-user $1,499, 10-user $2,699, discounts for additional users
(all licenses include unlimited technical
support, maintenance and upgrades for
one year).

Windows 95/98/NT/2000/ME; Microsoft Word 97/2000

Reviewed by Matthew E. Williamson, an attorney based in Monterey, Calif.

Feb/Mar '01 Issue

PROS
Easy installation, easily networkable, unlimited fields.

CONS
Doesn’t make document assembly easy, not set up for WordPerfect, no real tutorial.

VERDICT
It’s not the best, but definitely worth a try.