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Linklaters
Lee & Priestley
BPL Solicitors
Testimonials

“We have enjoyed time savings, seen a reduction in costs, and are able to continue to provide a top quality, speedy service.”

Linklaters

Christopher Coombe, real estate partner, Linklaters, explains some of the key benefits the practice has enjoyed since switching to SearchFlow for commercial property searches:

"Before working with SearchFlow, we were, like most practices, using traditional postal searches to obtain much of the critical land and property data required for conveyancing purposes.

With deals requiring work on ever larger numbers of properties in shorter timescales, we quickly realised that, to cope with increasing volumes, we would need to look for alternative, more efficient ways of working. Postal searches were unreliable and slow, and we needed a smarter way of working.

SearchFlow was an obvious choice. I was aware the management team had considerable industry experience and that the SearchFlow technology had evolved in line with the marketplace to enable conveyancers to deliver best practice.

Ease of use

One of the first things we realised was how easy the system was to use. Accessed via a web browser using a desktop PC, the system requires only the completion of one set of data fields and preparation of a plan. These are then used for all the searches requested (and the system prompts users to consider certain types of search which are area specific). A permanent record is created on the system of the searches requested, the plans submitted, and the itemised cost. There is an audit trail from which any user can see at a glance what's been ordered and what stage each search has reached. Thus a project does not need to stand still when someone is sick or on holiday - if a colleague needs to check the position, or add searches, it is all straightforward. Direct debiting of the costs makes billing easier.

As using SearchFlow does not involve loading complicated software programmes there is no long internal IT queue, plus set up costs are low as there is no licence agreement to buy in to.

Training and support

SearchFlow provided training which focussed on our specific business needs. Via a series of one to one and group training sessions, our entire team of over 65 had the opportunity to get up to speed before the system went live. As new members join the team, they too are trained by SearchFlow.

SearchFlow continues this valuable support with the provision of a dedicated commercial helpdesk, open from 8.00am to 6.00pm. This is staffed by people who know how the whole service works, and can provide guidance and follow up enquiries quickly.

Reduced administration

We have found that since changing the way we order our property searches, our secretaries and trainees have more time available for other, more productive, tasks. They are no longer bogged down with completing endless paperwork in order to get each individual search actioned; they do not need to chase search results as SearchFlow does this for us; and there is no need to request and wait for individual cheques to pay for searches, with the risk that the amount paid will prove to be wrong. Automating the system, thereby reducing the level of human input, means there is so much less to go wrong. Saving time ultimately helps to reduce costs, and helps us to support improved secretarial ratios.

Looking forward to a more competitive world

The market is facing many challenges at the moment, not least the introduction of e-conveyancing. We needed to look at new ways of working in order to retain our competitive edge and SearchFlow has certainly given us that. Use of SearchFlow technology helps us to investigate available information in a more proficient manner, so that we can continue to provide an efficient service for increasing volumes of work. As a result we have enjoyed time savings, seen a reduction in costs, and are able to continue to provide a top quality, speedy service in an increasingly competitive climate. This is something to be welcomed," concludes Christopher.

Summary:

Linklaters required a more efficient way of obtaining land and property search data to replace the postal route;
Linklaters opted for SearchFlow due to the following:
Experienced and knowledgeable team
Proven technology
More accurate way of working, with a full audit trail for each search
Free training
More efficient way of accessing property and land search information
As a result, Linklaters has experienced the following:
Reduced administration, freeing the time of secretaries for more productive activities
Time savings = cost savings
Helped retain its competitive edge

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