Transitioning from HotDocs Classic to XpressDox: Embracing the Future of Document Automation

In the rapidly evolving landscape of legal technology, law firms are embracing innovation like never before to drive growth, elevate client service, and boost profitability. At the heart of this transformation lies document automation software, a critical tool for efficiently generating complex, client-specific documents at scale.

 

For nearly four decades, HotDocs Classic has stood as the industry benchmark. It evolved over time, enriched by client feedback, to become a powerhouse of functionality. Law firms that have relied on HotDocs Classic have harnessed its power to create intricate, sophisticated templates. However, technology, like everything else, progresses to meet the demands of today’s market and changing client expectations.

 

As HotDocs Classic approaches the end of life, the legal tech arena sees the emergence of new contenders eager to take its place. Regrettably, many of these alternatives lack the robustness and sophistication needed to genuinely challenge HotDocs Classic.

 

Enter XpressDox, the foremost alternative to HotDocs Classic, offering a dynamic, future-ready solution for Word, Web, and API integrations. As the legal and corporate documentation landscape becomes more complex, XpressDox rises to meet the challenge, delivering unmatched versatility and efficiency.

 

At XpressDox, we recognize that transitioning from a familiar platform like HotDocs Classic—a trailblazer for almost four decades—can be a daunting task. That’s precisely why we’ve meticulously engineered our software to not only match but surpass the capabilities that users cherished in HotDocs Classic.

 

XpressDox represents a significant upgrade, thoughtfully tailored to the modern needs of our clients. Join us as we explore why XpressDox isn’t just an option—it’s the definitive choice for those seeking to enhance their document automation journey. Our goal is to ensure a seamless transition from HotDocs Classis to XpressDox with improved performance, creative potential, and enhanced user engagement.

Why XpressDox Is the Smart Choice to Replace HotDocs Classic

In this section, we delve into the compelling reasons why XpressDox emerges as the preferred choice when considering a transition from HotDocs Classic.

XpressDox is the most versatile system on the market.

XpressDox excels in its versatility, offering unparalleled integration capabilities. Users can launch templates directly from a wide range of applications — including Word, web interfaces, websites, Document Management Systems (DMS) such as iManage, NetDocuments, SharePoint, and even Outlook, without the need for switching between different platforms. This seamless integration ensures efficiency and ease of use. XpressDox is available for both on-premises hosting and cloud deployment, catering to diverse IT infrastructure needs. Additionally, XpressDox offers the capability to develop dedicated template solutions, tailored specifically to maintain and enhance the satisfaction of your most important clients.

XpressDox is fast

 XpressDox is distinguished by its speed. Regardless of the complexity or size of the template, the user interface loads in under two seconds, ensuring quick access to document creation. When it comes to document assembly, XpressDox sets the industry standard for speed, efficiently handling even the most extensive template packages. The software supports multiple output formats including Word, PDF, and direct email, offering versatility in document distribution. Additionally, XpressDox is capable of implementing decision trees, providing succinct answers based on user inputs instead of generating full documents, further enhancing its utility in diverse scenarios.

HotDocs to XpressDox converter.

XpressDox offers a comprehensive conversion tool designed for the efficient conversion of HotDocs Classic templates into XpressDox format. This includes a sophisticated code converter, streamlining the transition process. Additionally, XpressDox features a unique utility that enables template developers to consolidate variable names used across various templates. This promotes data reusability throughout the firm’s documentation processes, enhancing overall efficiency. XpressDox also facilitates the conversion of HotDocs Answer Files into XpressDox datasets, significantly reducing the time required for data recapture and ensuring a smoother transition for users.

XpressDox includes both low-code and full-code.

XpressDox uniquely combines low-code and full-code capabilities within a single product. This dual-feature approach allows the central templates department to leverage the full potential of the system for complex tasks. At the same time, it empowers departmental users to easily create and manage their less complex templates using our intuitive low-code interface. This flexibility ensures that users at all levels of technical proficiency can effectively utilize XpressDox, optimizing productivity across different departments.

Template creation is done inside MS Word.

Template creation in XpressDox is seamlessly integrated with Microsoft Word. This integration ensures complete compatibility with Word formats, eliminating concerns about format discrepancies. All Word functionalities, including styles, numbering, cross-referencing, and tables of contents, operate flawlessly within XpressDox. This seamless integration in MS Word guarantees that the advanced features of Word are fully available and functional when creating templates, ensuring a smooth and efficient template creation process.

 

Rapid template development.

XpressDox v15 revolutionizes template development with its ‘Autocode’ feature, an AI-driven utility. Autocode intelligently identifies entities such as names, places, values, and dates in a provided document, and automatically converts them into XpressDox variables within the template. It not only assigns variable names and long-text questions but also organizes these questions into logical ‘tabs’ in the interview for streamlined navigation. This innovative feature significantly simplifies the coding process for new templates, enhancing both the speed and ease of template creation.

 

Interview Designer saves time.

Version 15 of XpressDox introduces an impressive time-saving feature: the WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get) interview designer. This tool enables template coders to design their interviews in a ‘live’ environment. With this feature, coders can effortlessly incorporate help text, headings, and guidance notes, group questions, and rearrange them within the form. Each modification is instantly reflected in the interview, allowing for immediate visual feedback. This enhancement streamlines the design process, making it more efficient and user-friendly.

 

Client-facing templates.

XpressDox offers the capability to create client-facing templates, enhancing client interaction and engagement. This feature is ideal for sharing questionnaires with clients, such as those used in new client onboarding processes, via email. Additionally, XpressDox allows for the creation of dedicated template instances for VIP clients. These templates can be customized to align with the client’s corporate identity, aiding in client retention efforts. Furthermore, XpressDox enables the integration of public questionnaires on your website, serving as an effective tool to attract new business.

Template Packages and Document Sets

XpressDox excels in its ability to create comprehensive template packages and document sets. This feature allows for the generation of multiple documents simultaneously, based on the responses gathered in the interview process. The output of these documents can be tailored to your needs, offering formats in both Word and PDF. Additionally, XpressDox has the capability to generate individual documents for each person or entity within a repeating group. This is particularly useful in scenarios such as drafting Suretyships, where personalized documents are required for different parties.

 

Centralized Clause Library

XpressDox features a centralized clause library, streamlining the management and integration of clauses into templates. All clauses are stored in a single, accessible location, simplifying their management. When a clause is updated, templates containing that clause are automatically revised, ensuring consistency and accuracy across documents. Additionally, each clause can be accompanied by detailed metadata, including the creator/editor’s information, the date of the update, notes detailing the changes, and a trust rating for the clause. This comprehensive approach enhances document integrity and facilitates efficient clause management.

 

Re-use of Information

Efficiency in document automation lies in the re-use of information. XpressDox excels in this aspect by offering robust integration capabilities with a wide array of data sources. It seamlessly connects with databases such as SQL Server, MySQL, and applications like Excel, as well as various ODBC connections. Furthermore, XpressDox can effortlessly integrate with popular Practice Management and CRM systems, including 3e, Aderant, and any SQL Server-based applications. This integration allows for the re-utilization or uploading of client and matter information directly into the interview process in real-time. Such a feature not only increases the accuracy of the documents produced but also significantly reduces time expenditure, enhancing overall productivity.

 

XpressDox Includes Real-Time Reporting

XpressDox offers comprehensive reporting capabilities, detailing user activities and timelines. This feature is pivotal for adoption management, enabling managers to monitor the usage of templates within the firm. It provides insights into who is actively using the templates, identifies the most popular templates, and tracks the most engaged users. Additionally, XpressDox can provide custom reports tailored to specific management needs. The system also maintains a complete audit trail of all actions performed, which can be accessed through detailed reports. This level of transparency and oversight is invaluable for ensuring efficient template usage and for making informed decisions about resource allocation.

 

Security is Always Top of Mind

Security is a paramount concern at XpressDox. We ensure that all data is protected with state-of-the-art encryption both during transit and while at rest. This approach guarantees the highest level of data security and confidentiality. Additionally, for enhanced security measures, XpressDox offers the option to save documents and data directly into various Document Management Systems (DMS), such as iManage, NetDocuments, and SharePoint. This integration not only adds an extra layer of security but also streamlines the management and storage of sensitive information.

 

Expert and Experienced Support

XpressDox prides itself on offering expert and experienced support across various domains. Our comprehensive services include training, implementation, support services, template development, and custom integration development. These services are designed to cater to all levels of user needs, from basic setup to advanced customization. For more complex or advanced queries, clients have direct access to our technical team, ensuring that they receive tailored, high-level assistance. This commitment to expert support underscores our dedication to ensuring a smooth and efficient experience for all XpressDox users.

 

Help and Support Resources

XpressDox is committed to providing comprehensive help and support resources. Our learning center offers detailed guidance on all commands, ensuring users can fully leverage the capabilities of XpressDox. In version 15, we will introduce an advanced feature where users can ask questions in plain English, and the AI will intelligently identify the relevant command. For instance, querying ‘How do I create a repeating list?’ will prompt the AI to direct you to the appropriate command. Additionally, XpressDox offers a range of tutorial videos tailored for template developers, enhancing their skills and understanding of the software. We also encourage our clients to join our user group Forum, a platform for sharing insights, tips, and best practices, further enriching the XpressDox experience.

 

Responsiveness When You Need It

At XpressDox, we understand that responsiveness is key. While our software is designed to encompass all functionalities of HotDocs Classic, we recognize that unique needs may arise. In such instances, our team is prepared to develop new commands or features tailored to your specific requirements. Our commitment to customer satisfaction is reflected in our highly-rated responsiveness and customer-centric approach. We take pride in our readiness to meet your needs and our attitude towards service excellence, ensuring that you receive the support you need, when you need it.

 

XpressDox is Established

XpressDox has a proven track record of excellence and innovation since its inception in 2008. Over the years, it has been refined and enhanced by a vast user base, making it one of the most feature-rich products in the market. This extensive development is crucial as it ensures that XpressDox can adapt to the evolving needs of your firm. Whether it’s accommodating new trends or innovative requirements, XpressDox stands ready to meet these challenges, demonstrating its capability to grow and evolve with your firm’s needs.

 

Flexible and Affordable Pricing: Your Partner in Efficiency

At XpressDox, we understand that cost-effectiveness and flexibility are essential considerations for law firms. That’s why we’ve designed our pricing model to provide you with a transparent, all-in fixed fee structure that sets the industry standard. We believe in delivering value without hidden costs or surprises.

But our commitment to affordability doesn’t stop there. We go the extra mile by offering cross-grade and volume discounts, ensuring that your investment in document automation is not just cost-effective but optimized for your firm’s needs. For those who have been loyal users of HotDocs Classic, we extend a guarantee of the most competitive pricing when you make the transition to XpressDox.

Our ultimate goal is to empower every law firm we work with to achieve a positive return on investment in the shortest possible timeframe. We understand that every firm has unique budget considerations. That’s why we strongly encourage prospective clients to engage in pricing discussions with us. By openly discussing your budget, we can design a customized solution that not only meets your financial goals but also maximizes the benefits of document automation for your practice.

At XpressDox, we believe in creating win-win partnerships. Our flexible and affordable pricing is just one way we demonstrate our commitment to your firm’s success.

Conclusion: Elevate Your Document Automation Experience with XpressDox

In the ever-evolving landscape of legal technology, the transition from HotDocs Classic to XpressDox represents more than just a shift in software—it’s a leap into the future of document automation. XpressDox is not just an alternative; it’s the definitive choice for law firms seeking to enhance their document automation journey.

We’ve explored the reasons why XpressDox stands out as the logical successor to HotDocs, offering unparalleled versatility, speed, and ease of use. XpressDox’s innovative features, such as Autocode, WYSIWYG interview design, and client-facing templates, redefine how law firms interact with document automation.

Our commitment to security ensures the protection of your data at all times, while our expert support and comprehensive resources empower you to make the most of XpressDox’s capabilities.

But that’s not all. XpressDox’s proven track record of excellence and continuous development guarantees that it can adapt to the evolving needs of your firm. We’re not just a software provider; we’re your partner in efficiency, dedicated to helping you achieve a positive return on investment.

And when it comes to pricing, XpressDox goes above and beyond, offering flexible, affordable options that cater to your budget and needs. We believe in creating win-win partnerships, and our transparent pricing model reflects that commitment.

So, as you embark on your journey to enhance your document automation process, remember that XpressDox is here to elevate your experience, streamline your workflows, and ensure your success. Join us in embracing the future of document automation—choose XpressDox.


Book a personalized demo today to discover how XpressDox can transform your document automation journey. Your future starts here.