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Iliffes Booth Bennett, a leading South East law firm, has achieved major developments in internal efficiency through a unique combination of digital dictation and speech recognition systems. Iliffes Booth Bennett installed BigHand's TotalSpeech digital dictation software, also taking advantage of its seamless integration with speech recognition technology, and found the combined package has allowed them to greatly reduce secretary to fee-earner ratios in select departments.

In addition IBB solicitors now have greater independence and flexibility, and are no longer completely reliant on secretaries to turn documents around. The accumulated benefits mean IBB has been able to both reduce costs and also improve the speed of service. For example, as a result of bringing in BigHand, IBB's Commercial Dispute Resolution and Litigation Group can now boast 9 solicitors and only 2 secretaries, who all use the product. Whilst the TotalSpeech digital dictation software allows work sharing and increased typing speed for secretaries, the optional speech recognition feature gives fee earners the ability to work in total independence when and where required. Costs associated with temporary secretarial cover have also been reduced as a result.

The Head of the Group, Andrew Olins, commented:

"Ensuring that both existing and newly recruited solicitors are provided with appropriate secretarial and administrative support - particularly, when a firm has ambitious plans for expansion such as IBB - can be a financial issue. However, with BigHand's expertise in streamlining working practices through their improved digital dictation and speech recognition technology, we were able to restrict costs and accelerate our expansion plans."

Implementing BigHand technology is part of IBB's overall drive to further develop internal working practices - in particular to increase fee earner independence and reduce reliance on secretarial support in specific groups to enhance client service. Over 80 people at IBB now use TotalSpeech, and these objectives have now been successfully achieved.Digital dictation is increasingly viewed as a firm-wide technology with many proven benefits. However, more innovative firms that have already implemented digital dictation systems such as TotalSpeech are finding that selective introduction of speech recognition 'on the back end' can complement that flexibility. An in-depth knowledge of typical working practices, personal styles and specialist requirements in niche areas is critical in making these cultural changes a success. As such, while TotalSpeech has recently been shortlisted as Best Legal Office Technology System at this year's LOTIES awards, BigHand have also been shortlisted as Best Legal Office Technology Supplier.

IBB's Director of Information Services, Joanna DeBiase, adds:

"BigHand have implemented the system with great professionalism and minimal disturbance. They exceeded my expectations by providing a responsive service even when faced with challenging deadlines. A particular strength is that they are problem solvers. Partners in the teams with the system feel confident in expanding their departments without taking on additional secretaries. Accordingly, the financial results are there to be seen."

ENDS

IBB SolicitorsIBB is a leading law firm in the South East providing a full range of services to an extensive business, institutional and private client community. We are committed to providing high quality, effective and efficient legal services. We have particular strengths in Commercial Property, Commercial Dispute Resolution, Corporate and Commercial, Family, Crime, Personal Injury and Private Client work.

Further information is available at www.ibblaw.co.uk