The latest "next big thing" is the ASP ("Application Service Provider") model conveyancing system that removes the software from your network and operates on a (very) remote server. You use your Internet connection to access the system, process your closing, and get your closing documents from a master copy of the software.

These Internet-based products have strengths and weakness that you should carefully consider before you commit your business to them. On the plus side, this approach gives the developer more control of the software and updates. On the other hand, updating and development can be slowed because changes need to be far more extensively considered and tested before being rolled out, as they will affect tens of thousands of users around the country (possibly in different ways). Also, everyone uses the same generic version of the software, which means that you lose the ability to customize the system to work the way you do.

An even more fundamental issue is information security. On a private server-based program, nobody has access to your data other than you. On an ASP system, your data is out there somewhere on someone else's computer on the Internet. Most attorneys and business owners are cautious about allowing access to information, and with good reason. At risk is not only confidential client data, but also information about your business. Stored within your conveyancing software is a wealth of details about you, your contacts, and your sources of conveyancing work. Some of the ASP-model conveyancing systems are owned or controlled by your would-be competitors, so think twice about who holds your information and who may have access to it.

Consider, as well, what may happen in the event of a dispute with your provider, or if you want to stop paying for the ASP service. Do you get disconnected from your ability to work? What happens to your data?

A commonly-cited benefit of having all your data and programs on a big "server in the sky" is the ability to work from a remote location. The good news is that you can set this up with the Standard Conveyancer™ program you already have. You can keep your files on your network and remotely access them using terminal services, remote desktop or remote control software. These systems give you the ability to work through a Web browser from remote offices or from home while securely running the program in the office without an Internet connection. More and more clients are using Standard Conveyancer™ this way and enjoy the best of all options without relinquishing control over their sensitive data.

As we move into the future, our industry will see further attempts by real estate brokers, lenders and title underwriters to gain control over the closing process. At the heart of the struggle for control is data -- information about your business and your clients. Remember, as an independent software and services provider, Standard Solutions can help you with issues like remote access without putting your confidential business and client information or your ability to work at risk.

For more information or advice on setting up remote access to your current installation of Standard Conveyancer™, please contact us by e-mail or at (781) 324-0550.