Product Features
Microsoft SQL Server
Optimizing Time Matters version 10.0 & Additional Information
Product Features
What are the top features in Time Matters version 10.0?
Time Matters version 10 enhancements include:
- New with version 10.0 - Expand user participation with practice management
information in your firm with Desktop Extensions. Desktop Extensions gives access
to Time Matters data and functions without opening the primary user interface. A
simplified interface lets you view and access key practice management information
without the need to even open Time Matters. With Desktop Extensions you run a more
effective practice: search documents, find contacts, save notes and phone records,
and check your schedule all from a simple interface on your desktop. Benefits to
your firm include:
- Improved user participation with the practice management software
- Fast, secure, filtered access to your matter-related information at a glance
- Provides you the information to take the next action, e.g. email the document,
schedule an appointment, etc.
- Improved backup and restore functionality for better data protection.
- A new comprehensive Power View that allows you to view all the information about a
case in one quickly accessible place.
- Improved TM Connect functionality that allows for setting of staff and codes.
- Simplified merge template organization with support for sub folders
- Single Time Matters platform powered by Microsoft SQL providing:
- Enhanced performance for data-intensive firms, including documents and e-mails
- Increased search speeds help you find documents and conflicts more quickly
- Robust platform for firms striving for a paperless office with higher electronic
data requirements and larger data repositories
- Automatically update Outlook® and your PDAs with Time Matters information
through Microsoft® Exchange
- Installation that includes Microsoft® SQL Server® Express
- Installation support services may also be ordered from LN or the CIC network
What efficiency improvements can version 10.0 provide my firm?
We now have a single offering, Time Matters, using a SQL database. Key workflow improvements include:
Performance - Increase the speed and performance of activities such as searching and
filtering. As your firm grows, your electronic records can grow exponentially. Microsoft SQL is engineered
to provide data management for businesses, and can easily manage large amounts of data in a secure
environment.
Reliability - Many tasks are performed on the server. Because Time Matters 10.0 uses
Microsoft SQL Server, less data has to be transferred across your network while you work, reducing the
opportunities for database corruption. This protects data integrity and makes Time Matters with SQL more
reliable.
Flexibility - Advanced SQL capabilities allows firms with multiple offices to share
information - our certified independent consultants can set up a replication environment to synchronize data
from multiple offices into a single view of Time Matters client and matter information. As an industry
standard, Microsoft SQL Server allows your firm to take advantage of other third party services, including
industry-standard report and database analysis tools that can provide your firm with better business
intelligence.
Integrations - Time Matters 10.0 can integrate with:
- Microsoft® Exchange Server for Outlook and PDA synchronization
- Document Management Systems, including DOCS Open, iManage® (Interwoven), and WORLDOX.
When will Time Matters version 10.0 be available?
The release is currently in beta testing. We expect the release to be available in late September.
You may take advantage of our sale on the Annual Maintenance Plan (AMP) in July and then perform
the upgrade after the software has been released and at your convenience.
Is version 10.0 more stable?
Yes.
We understand that our customers rely on our products and so our technical team has adopted
improved development and testing processes to create a more stable and reliable product. The move
to a SQL system will also improve stability. Efficient data handling and network utilization are
realized through SQL by creating a more reliable system where less data has to be transferred
across your network while you work, reducing the opportunities for database corruption. This
protects data integrity and helps make Time Matters powered by SQL more reliable.
Time Matters 10.0 no longer includes a Professional Edition offering. What is the difference?
Evolving computer operating system and hardware changes have rendered the Professional Edition
to suffer sub-optimal performance in some environments. Customers have long been encouraged to
upgrade to the Enterprise version when their practice required it. We now believe customers will
have the best experience with our SQL-based offering so we are no longer offering the Professional
Edition with version 10.0.
Time Matters 10.0 software accesses data stored in a Microsoft SQL Server database. It supports
advanced electronic data requirements, and offers better performance, especially with newer
operating systems and hardware. Version 10.0 is scalable, providing better performance for larger
volumes of data. The SQL Server software and data files must be installed and accessible through
the firm's network.
How do I upgrade from Time Matters Professional Edition to Time Matters 10.0?
You can directly upgrade from earlier versions of Time Matters Pro to Time Matters version 10.0.
The installation of version 10.0 includes installing the SQL 2005 Express database and the import
of your current data.
LexisNexis also offers services to perform this upgrade if you would like an expert to perform
the upgrade. For more information, click
here.
LexisNexis Practice Management has an extensive network of Certified Independent Consultants (CIC)
offering on-site training, installation, and maintenance of Practice Management software systems.
LexisNexis Solution Provider Network
What if I want to stay on the Professional database?
All the information you have today will be available to you in Time Matters 10.0. The information
that you have in the Time Matters Professional Edition database will be converted into the new
Time Matters database.
Time Matters 10.0 is offered only on the SQL database. There is no Professional Edition.
What are the hardware requirements for version 10.0 (Server & Workstation)
Please note: many computer experts advise as a best practice using hardware with twice the minimum
system requirements, especially for "power users," or data intensive activities.
View system requirements. (These requirements are preliminary and
may be increased or adjusted for optimal performance following the beta.)
Time Matters 10.0 does not support Windows 2000 or Microsoft SQL 2000.
Microsoft SQL Server
Does Time Matters version 10.0 come with the SQL database?
Microsoft SQL Server 2005 Express Edition is installed by default with Time Matters 10.0.
Microsoft SQL Server 2005 Express is appropriate for many firms who have previously used Time
Matters Professional. Microsoft sells other SQL Server editions which provide features and support
for larger organizations.
Do I need "full SQL?" or will SQL Express work for us?
Microsoft SQL Server offers several versions, and a firm's choice depends on many factors including
the number of concurrent users, the amount of data to be stored, and the need for replication. Time
Matters 10.0 installs SQL Server Express, a free version of the SQL Server database, by default.
Time Matters also works with other SQL Server versions, including Microsoft® SQL Server™
2005 and 2008.
For more information about Microsoft SQL Server, see:
http://www.microsoft.com/sqlserver/2008/en/us/default.aspx
What is the difference between SQL & SQL Express?
SQL Server Express is a free version of the Microsoft SQL Server database engine. Microsoft sets a 25
user limit with SQL Express, as well as a 4 Gigabyte data storage limit. If you have more than 25 users,
you will need to license the full version of SQL Server.
In cases where SQL replication is used, one copy of the full version of SQL Server is required.
Upon installation of Time Matters version 10.0, the previous installation of Time Matters is detected to
verify your database size.
See pricing Question
How can I get SQL Server Express?
SQL Server 2005 Express Edition is included with Time Matters 10.0 and is installed for you. There is no
need to obtain SQL Server Express from another source.
How much does the full version of SQL Server cost?
Price is determined by the SQL Edition, the number of users you require, and license type. You can find
details on the Microsoft web site or by calling Microsoft.
http://www.microsoft.com/sqlserver/2008/en/us/how-to-buy.aspx
- In the US, call (800) 426-9400 to speak to a Microsoft representative.
- In Canada, call (877) 568-2495.
How is Microsoft SQL Server licensed?
Microsoft provides a number of licensing options for you to find the right fit. Microsoft offers Volume,
Server, and CAL (Client Connection License) licensing options.
Details are available on the Microsoft web site:
http://www.microsoft.com/sqlserver/2008/en/us/licensing.aspx
What happens if I have too much data for SQL Express?
Upon installation of Time Matters version 10.0, the previous installation of Time Matters is detected to
verify your database size. If your database exceeds the size limitations of SQL Server Express, you will
need the full version of Microsoft SQL Server.
Can I link my office with SQL Replication?
When set up appropriately, Time Matters will work with SQL replication. LexisNexis does not support
replication, but our Certified Independent Consultants (CICs) can set up and support replication for
you.
LexisNexis Practice Management has an extensive network of Certified Independent Consultants (CICs)
offering on-site training, installation, and maintenance of Practice Management software systems. To
find a CIC in your area, visit:
LexisNexis Solution Provider Network
Why doesn't Time Matters version 10.0 come with SQL Server 2008 Express?
If you are already using SQL 2008 Express Edition, the Time Matters installation will detect and use
SQL Server 2008 Express.
SQL Server 2008 Express was not used as the default because it requires the new MSI Installer which is
not yet widely distributed. As a result, including SQL Server 2008 Express at this time would have forced
a reboot of a user's computer and other installation difficulties. After Microsoft has distributed the new
installer via service releases, we will consider moving to SQL Server 2008 Express. Note that we do support
SQL Server 2008 Express; we have simply opted not to install it by default.
Optimizing Time Matters version 10.0 & Additional Information
Will version 10.0 support the link to my PDA, BlackBerry, iPhone or billing systems?
Links requirements detail
Time Matters 10.0 has improved Exchange Synchronization and now with version 10.0, all users have the
ability to synchronize with Exchange.
In version 10.0, no significant updates to links with handheld devices have been made. We know links are
important features and are developing appropriate solutions.
BlackBerry - Support of recently introduced devices and the newest versions of Enterprise
Server is recommended through Exchange Synchronization.
iPhone - Support of the iPhone is available through Outlook or through MS Exchange
synchronization.
Billing systems - Version 10.0 supports the latest releases of Billing Matters, PCLaw
and Juris. Some versions of Timeslips and TABS are not supported by Time Matters 10.0.
What is Microsoft Exchange Synchronization?
Exchange Synchronization was previously only available to users of Time Matters Enterprise Edition. With
version 10.0, everyone will have access. The Exchange Synchronization provides a bi-directional
synchronization of Events and ToDo records between Time Matters and Outlook, and between Time Matters and
PDA devices. By going through Exchange Synchronization, changes in either Time Matters or Outlook or PDAs
will be made in each system automatically.
However, a limitation does exist for multi-day calendar events because of a difference between Exchange
and Time Matters. Changes made to multi-day events through Outlook/PDAs will not be recorded in Time
Matters. Changes made to those events through Time Matters will update Outlook/PDAs. Additions and deletions
will also synchronize.
Firms are managing this limitation in one of these ways: 1) Training users to change a multi-day event
by deleting it from the calendar and then re-entering it; 2) Only allowing changes in Time Matters, and
making Outlook/PDA read-only.
Can I run on a peer to peer network now that Time Matters is SQL based?
While Time Matters based on SQL will run on a peer to peer network, you need to ensure that the computer
with the Time Matters database has sufficient processor speed, disk space, and memory both to host SQL
Server and to run your other software at the same time. We expect you will find that Time Matters is a
critical application for your firm, and Time Matters performs best on a dedicated server.
LexisNexis does offer installation services to get you up and running.
LexisNexis Practice Management has an extensive network of Certified Independent Consultants (CICs)
offering on-site training, installation, and maintenance of Practice Management software systems. To find
a CIC in your area, visit:
LexisNexis Solution Provider Network
Is there support for Terminal Service and/or Citrix?
Time Matters will work with Citrix when set up appropriately. LexisNexis will publish instructions to offer
guidance, but we do not offer technical support for Citrix. If you are having issues, we isolate Time Matters
from Citrix by troubleshooting directly on the Time Matters server.
Additionally, LexisNexis Practice Management has an extensive network of Certified Independent Consultants
(CICs) offering on-site training, installation, and maintenance of Practice Management software systems. To
find a CIC in your area, visit:
LexisNexis Solution Provider Network
Can I get help with installation and setup?
LexisNexis is introducing Getting Started Services to help our new customers with installation. Surveys
have shown that Time Matters customers that take advantage of product implementation services use their
application more productively, require less technical support, and are much more satisfied.
Getting Started Services are purchased through LexisNexis and are fulfilled primarily
through CICs. For more information, click
here.
For existing Time Matters users who wish to upgrade from Professional to 10.0, LexisNexis recommends using
one of our Certified Independent Consultants (CICs). CICs offer on-site training, installation, and
maintenance of Practice Management software systems. To find a CIC in your area, visit:
LexisNexis Solution Provider Network
What are my options for help?
In addition to support available via the Setup Guides, Online Help, and Training, customer support is
available. Available customer support includes:
- Web-Based Technical Support through the
Service Center.
- Telephone Technical Support. Technical Support is designed to address issues
such as unique initial setup and installation, errors, unexpected results, and performance problems.
It is not designed to address routine setup, customization, data conversion, training, or consulting.
Technical Support is limited to issues that are directly related to Time Matters/Billing Matters and
excludes the setup and operation of operating systems, networks, hardware, and SQL databases.
LexisNexis also offers a variety of training options to fit your needs:
- Anytime Training. On-demand, highly interactive, available 24/7. Anytime Training
is great for learning the basics at your own pace and at the time of your convenience, as well as for
training new staff.
- Live Web-based Classes. eLearning sessions provide live instructor-led sessions
focusing on basic and more advanced topics.
- On-Site Certified Independent Consultant Support. Time Matters has an extensive
network of Certified Independent Consultants (CICs) in the United States, Canada, and other countries.
If you require assistance beyond the scope of a technical support phone call, consider contacting a CIC.
For more training information, visit
LexisNexis University
To find a CIC in your area, visit:
LexisNexis Solution Provider Network
After installation, what type of maintenance does version 10.0 require?
Backups. We recommend full backups of the application's data on a daily basis. This Backup procedure is
NOT a substitute for your daily system-wide backup, where your entire server would be backed up. Version
10.0 includes backup instructions.
Backing up in Time Matters only includes the Administrative Files (that is, not the Main and Supporting
Records) unless a SQL Stored Procedure named "TM_BACKUP" has been created to back up the Main and
Supporting records. This is intentional, because many SQL Administrators do not want Server backup
protocols to be overridden by an application backup.
Database Administration. Version 10.0 uses a relational database design with indexed data. Just as
locating information in a large book can be greatly improved by first looking in the index, Time Matters
uses a data index to quickly locate records. Whenever an entry is made in Time Matters, an entry also has
to be made in the Index files. If the server crashes or fails to properly update the index files, these
indexes can become corrupt.
Corrupt indexes cause data to appear to be missing and the program to freeze, particularly when first
entering the program or when making an entry in the Data files. Make sure no one else will be using the
program when running a File Re-Index. If you get an "Error On Disk" or "Access Denied Error" when running
a File Re-Index, this is usually caused by a user being in the program. If you are the only one using the
program when this error occurs, then exit, restart Time Matters, and try again.
Service Release Updates. LexisNexis creates Service Releases periodically, to update applications. It is
recommended that customers implement these as soon as they become available. Service releases, and other
information, are made available through the
Service Center
What can we do to optimize Time Matters?
- Make sure all computers in your office meet or exceed the recommended Time Matters system
requirements, including network requirements.
- Keep your computer systems up to date. Update all drivers and follow common recommendations
for updating and replacing office computer equipment. Older computer equipment may not be adequate
for today's office applications, and the more applications you run simultaneously, the more your
computer's processor speed, memory, and hard drive space will make a difference.
- Purchase an Annual Maintenance Plan and call if you are experiencing any issues. Many common
issues are easy to resolve with a short call to a qualified staff person. Some firms also work
with a Certified Independent Consultant (CIC), who can provide on-site support and develop a
customized approach for your firm.
- Maintain your SQL database. Do regular backups, re-index as needed. If you do not have
in-house expertise, you can hire a CIC or computer systems specialist to tune your database for
you, which helps your database work more efficiently on your specific hardware and network
configuration.
- Make sure your network meets the system requirements. An underspecified network may lead to
performance and data issues.
Does version 10.0 run on 64-bit operating systems?
Yes, version 10.0 operates in a 64-bit environment.
Version 10.0 does not make use of 64-bit processing.
How are Desktop Extensions licensed?
For each user license of version 10.0, you get one license for Desktop Extensions.
Does version 10.0 run on a Mac?
Time Matters 10.0 will work with on a Mac OS when run through Parallels. We have field information
that suggests this is known to work. We do not offer technical support for running Time Matters on
a Mac. If you are having issues, we isolate Time Matters from Mac/Parallels to troubleshoot on a
Windows system.
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