|
|
|
|
| Elite TimeTrax | |
|
TimeTrax is the new front-end application designed by Elite Information Systems for entry of time and expenses into its Elite Accounts Payable/General Ledger (AP/GL) System. TimeTrax is designed to permit timekeepers to enter time and expenses, either online or offline, from the timekeeper’s desktop or laptop. The ability to enter time offline and then subsequently synchronize with the online program makes this a particularly good choice for road warriors. Time is entered in the TimeTrax System using individual timecards that are then loaded into the Billing System timecard table. Elite’s AP/GL System handles vouchers. Expenses are loaded into the Billing System using a pre-cost table. Time and expense entries are then processed by Elite to generate billing statements and other financial and management reports. TimeTrax offers several options for time entry. The basic method is to use a timecard wizard for each entry. The timecard contains fields identifying the date, client and matter, time spent on a given task and a narrative description of the work performed. In addition, optional fields can be included that permit task-based billing and the entry of Uniform Task Based Management (UTBM) codes. Data can be entered directly into each field or drop-down menus can be used to select appropriate data for each field. For example, the client/matter drop-down offers a columnar menu that allows the timekeeper to identify the individual client matter by file number, client name, file description or nickname. This offers the user a great deal of flexibility as number-oriented timekeepers can use the file numbers they have memorized as their primary identifier, while others who remember their files better by nickname can use that method for selecting the proper file. The narrative field has automatic spell check, permits the creation of a custom glossary, and has an auto-complete feature that can be user-defined for speedy data entry. The auto-complete also can be deactivated, permitting data entry in the narrative field using voice-activated dictation. As an alternative to the timecard wizard, the timekeeper can enter time in a spreadsheet view using a daily, weekly or monthly view that mimics the traditional paper time log. There is also an “Action Bar” option that opens a floating window that contains a file list in a tree view that can be customized by the timekeeper to show only those matters that are active or frequently accessed, while hiding other files to shorten the list. The Action Bar provides the time entry method requiring the least number of keystrokes. It can be used effectively with a series of double clicks as you descend to lower levels on the tree to select the client name, client matter, and if activated, the activity code or UTBM task. In many cases, this eliminates the need for detailed data entry in the narrative field. When TimeTrax is opened, the default interface is automatically set to the monthly calendar view but can be changed. The user can double-click on the particular day the work was done and the timecard wizard is launched, ready for additional information. The “ditto” feature can be used when repetitive tasks are performed on multiple dates so only the date field needs to be edited. In addition to the basic time entry features, TimeTrax can be used to generate a variety of user-defined productivity reports. For example, the time for a given month can be viewed in a spreadsheet format sorted by client and then date, or by date and then client, or only for selected clients. Filters can be used to view billable and date categories. Reports can be viewed online or they can be printed. Once the time entry is complete and the timekeeper is ready to release the time, a two-step process is followed to complete and then send the information to the AP/GL system. The firm administrator sets various security levels for timekeepers to access and edit dates. Overall, this is a relatively easy-to-use time-entry solution. The flexibility it offers in multiple methods of entering time and in generating different and numerous productivity reports might intimidate the novice user at first. However, it doesn’t take long to become accustomed to the look and feel of TimeTrax, and once the user is comfortable with it, he or she will appreciate the full set of features the program has to offer. |
Elite Information Systems Price: $125 per seat with site licensing options available. Reviewed by Bruce Olson, a trial lawyer and shareholder in the Wisconsin-based law firm of Davis & Kuelthau, S.C. PROS CONS VERDICT |
| Home | | Issue Archive | Resources | About Us | Contact Us | Subscribe | | Subscribers | Advertisers | Updated 09/26/02 |
