PeopleTrac by CompuTrac, Version 2.5

PeopleTrac by CompuTrac, Version 2.5

PeopleTrac by CompuTrac is an automated pegboard, or in other words, in-out board. It allows your staff to inform the office manager, and each other, of their whereabouts throughout the day. The application notifies fellow colleagues of absentee personnel's time out of the office, anticipated return, destination, as well as reasons for leaving. Users can also leave messages for other staff members and expected callers. In addition, if the attorneys forget to inform the staff that they have returned, this program has an automated check-in function that will do it automatically for them.

CompuTrac includes a comprehensive tutorial with PeopleTrac, which covers all aspects of the program and is easy to use. The program itself is so easy to use, however, the tutorial might not even be necessary.

Overall, this is a good program for small- or medium-sized law offices, yet it may be a bit burdensome for large offices. For large law firms, it might become too difficult to track everyone by the use of this product. The screen could easily become cluttered with many names, in-times, out-times and messages. Also, a continuing issue with new software is that it is only as good as its usage. Attorneys are notorious for not bothering to learn new technology, and often ignore it.

Another main concern I have is that much of the functionality of this program may be available by other means. Messaging can now be done by either e-mail, voice mail or a personal information manager. In fact, most e-mail programs available do offer a calendaring function. They may not have an actual electronic pegboard, but they do come close. In my office of 50 people, when a staff member is going on vacation, they just send an e-mail out to the office and that is usually enough notification for everyone.

CompuTrac Software
(888) 311-TRAC
www.computrac.com
Windows 95/NT

$395 (10-user license)

Reviewed by Adam C. Nelson, Esq., attorney and consultant, Baker, Robbins & Company, Chicago, Ill.

Jun/Jul '98 Issue

PROS
Easy to use. Very good tutorial.

CONS
Much of the functionality is already available on other e-mail programs.

VERDICT
For smaller law firms it would be very useful for tracking staff.