Time Matters - Feb/Mar '98

Time Matters

This program purports to provide calendar, contact, matter and document management. Time Matters is written specifically for use in the law office. This emphasis provides it a bit of an edge over the other programs. The interface is very intuitive and puts most functions at your fingertips. The toolbar has large buttons with text labels (Daily, Weekly, Monthly, Events, To-Do, Contacts Cases, Journal, Notes, etc.). A smaller button bar underneath the main toolbar provides additional functions with pop-up hints. Both advanced and novice users will find Time Matters convenient in any law office.

The calendar can be viewed in a daily, weekly or monthly format. The daily view is probably the best since it displays the current day's appointments and to-do items. Entering new items is a snap by clicking on the icon for Add New Record (or double click on any open time slot). Enter as much as you like, including client matter numbers and contact information.

Some legal-specific features stand out in this product. The Date Calculator (a button on the toolbar) provides an easy way to calculate due dates, even considering weekends and holidays. Second, the Legal Timetable provides a reference for legal deadlines in accordance with your local rules. Specify the rule and deadline once and you can refer back to it at any time. Time Matters is a powerful calendaring program that attorneys will love.

The phone book displays summary information in a linear format. The dialog box for each contact is very detailed. Tabs in the dialog box move through all the information on a contact. Click on the Files tab to check for documents linked to this record. If you are an information junkie, Time Matters is the fix you need.

Time Matters comes ready for network use. The program also integrates well with other software you are using. Time Matters provides both a 16- and 32-bit version of its software. For those stuck in Windows 3.1, this could prove advantageous. Both versions are identical, but the 32-bit version includes long file name support and links to both the PalmPilot and PaperPort Deluxe. The Time Matters Report Sampler provides a variety of formats for printing your calendar and docket. If you have a color printer, you can take advantage of color to highlight significant dates such as court hearings.

DATA.TXT Corp.
(800) DATATXT

By Michael Jimmerson

From the Shopper's Guide to Personal Information Managers - Feb/Mar '98

Pros: This is a PIM designed expressly for legal users. It features excellent calendaring and third-party integration.

Cons: Time Matters could be overwhelming to novice users.

Verdict: This is a fantastic program ideally suited for attorneys. Although some of the other programs may offer the same functionality, in most cases, you will have to spend some time customizing the software to your needs. Time Matters works great right out of the box.