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Case studies BPL
Solicitors “The system makes the life of our conveyancing
staff much easier.”  |
BPL SolicitorsDavid Bridge, Legal Director of BPL Solicitors Limited explains how the firm is benefiting from the use of electronic property searches to free up individuals' time and to provide a more efficient service offering to its clients:Explains David: "We started working with SearchFlow in 2000. At the time, we were part of a large, traditional legal practice. I was aware of the new NLIS initiative through press articles, and was interested in finding out how this technology could help streamline our conveyancing services, in order to stay ahead of the game. We decided to see what was on offer from the three NLIS channels so invited them to visit us. "We opted to work with SearchFlow due to a combination of factors. I liked the fact that they are an independent company, the website search facility is much easier to use, and I instantly liked the mapping service. In addition, I gelled well with the team, which counts for an awful lot when you are looking to develop a long-term relationship." Before moving online, the conveyancing process was extremely labour intensive. Manual form filling, photocopying and raising individual cheques for each search took a great deal of time and effort. Confirms David: "Quite often this process would be duplicated if three or four searches were required; it was certainly time for a change." Integrated Business EfficienciesThe relationship with SearchFlow has helped BPL look at a more integrated way of working, in preparation for e-conveyancing and the Home Information Packs. Since forming the relationship, BPL has become an associate member of PISCES and the workgroups to promote an integrated way of working. Confirms David: "This has certainly helped us move in the right direction regarding e-conveyancing and Home Information Packs, which is vastly important to our business as the industry continues to evolve." BPL has identified some key business efficiencies, as a result of the system. Not only can SearchFlow integrate with BPL’s existing case management system, therefore integrating and populating all search requirements, it has helped free up vital time in the workplace: "With SearchFlow, I could instantly see the efficiencies in working in an electronic fashion. A motion study was conducted that identified a local search could take up to 20 minutes of someone’s time. With SearchFlow it now only takes three. It really is a no-brainer," comments David. Another area that appealed to BPL was the instant access to a host of different searches. As the conveyancing market developed over the years, the number of available searches has increased. SearchFlow automatically updates new searches online, removing the need to manually research into new updates and services. Confirms David: "Through SearchFlow, you become much more aware of the searches available. For example, ‘PlanSearch’ recently launched, providing information on planning in the vicinity. It hadn’t received much publicity, however we were automatically alerted to it via SearchFlow. Members of staff simply need to log on, and the information is readily available. This has helped to reduce training costs keeping up to date on new searches." Mapping FunctionalityThe sophisticated mapping tools available through SearchFlow help improve the accuracy of a search, meaning less queries from information providers and fewer delays. It aims to make it easy for anyone to identify the property extent, and offers the flexibility to mark up more complex areas. "The mapping tool is excellent. It is based on Ordnance Survey maps so we know the data is current, and can be extremely specific on location. It is also a continuous map that allows you to scroll around the area of the property to identify any possible problems. I am a big a fan of the mapping tool!" Time Savings = Cost Savings Ultimately, the system has helped improve the conveyancing services BPL offers. Concludes David: "The system makes the life of our conveyancing staff much easier. It adds an extra layer of security over the searches, so the correct data is requested and retrieved. "In short, there are many benefits from working electronically – not only does it free up everyone’s time, it is more accurate, and presents all searches in a consistent way. Financial savings are also evident in terms of time saved, less training requirements, and the reduction in cheques having to be written, as the payment is now managed via Direct Debit. It helps give us a competitive edge." |