Tag: firm

Client Relationship Management (CRM) for Legal Professionals

In a profession built on trust and reputation, maintaining strong client relationships is essential for long-term success. That’s where Client Relationship Management (CRM) tools come in. Law firms are increasingly using CRM software to organize communications, track interactions, personalize outreach, and improve service delivery. These systems help firms better understand their clients’ needs and respond more efficiently, whether managing one case or a hundred. In today’s fast-moving legal landscape, relying on memory or spreadsheets isn’t enough. CRM tools provide structure and visibility, making it easier for attorneys and support staff to deliver consistent, high-quality client experiences.

What a CRM Actually Does for Law Firms

At its core, a CRM is a centralized platform that stores and organizes client data: contacts, past communication, billing details, case history, preferences, and more. This gives everyone on the team a shared understanding of a client’s journey. For law firms, this means smoother hand-offs between partners and associates, more timely follow-ups, and better visibility into client engagement. Many CRMs also automate tasks like appointment reminders or client check-ins, freeing up time for actual legal work. Whether you’re a solo practitioner or a multi-office firm, a CRM can help streamline your workflow and keep relationships strong.

Improving Client Communication and Responsiveness

Clients today expect quick, professional communication. CRM systems help firms track calls, emails, and meetings, so nothing falls through the cracks. They also make it easier to respond promptly, especially when multiple attorneys or departments are involved. Some CRMs offer integrated email tools or templates to make routine responses faster. Others link with calendars, enabling reminders for follow-ups or court dates. By making communication more organized and consistent, law firms can improve client satisfaction and reduce the risk of misunderstandings. A well-used CRM doesn’t just track relationships. It strengthens them through reliable, proactive contact.

Protecting Client Data in a Digital World

Because CRMs store sensitive client information, security is a top priority. Many law firms now use platforms with built-in encryption, user permissions, and secure cloud storage. In addition to these features, some firms also rely on threat intelligence to monitor potential cyber risks that could expose confidential records or contact histories. Threat intelligence tools help spot suspicious behavior, such as unauthorized access attempts or phishing schemes targeting staff credentials. This kind of digital protection is especially important in legal work, where even a small data breach could damage a firm’s reputation or result in regulatory consequences.

Better Insights for Smarter Business Development

CRM tools can do more than just manage relationships. They can help grow them. Many platforms offer analytics dashboards that track client engagement, referral sources, and communication patterns. This allows firms to identify top clients, spot trends, and understand where to focus their marketing or networking efforts. A CRM can show which types of clients tend to return, what practice areas generate the most interest, and how often follow-ups turn into new matters. With this data in hand, legal professionals can make more informed decisions about where to invest time and resources to strengthen their business.

Making CRM Part of Your Firm’s Culture

For a CRM system to be effective, it needs to be used consistently. That means training team members, setting clear usage expectations, and integrating the platform into daily routines. When everyone logs interactions and updates client records, the system becomes a true source of insight and support. It’s also important to choose a CRM that matches your firm’s size, practice areas, and workflow. From intake to follow-up, the goal is to build a tool that helps, not hinders, your team’s ability to serve clients. Done right, CRM becomes more than software. It becomes a culture of connection.

UX Firm Each&Other Creates 10 New Jobs in UK Expansion and will Invest €500k in its Team to Support the Expansion of Fractional UX and Service Capabilities

Each&Other, one of Ireland’s leading independent digital consultancies, is creating 10 new jobs in the UK and Dublin as it continues to scale the company.  The company is investing €500k in its team to support the expansion and enhance its fractional UX and service design capabilities.

UK industry veteran, Ben Logan has been appointed as UK Strategy & Growth Lead.  Ben was founder and former MD of Spotless, a London-based UX Research and Service Design agency and brings over 20 years of leadership experience to Each&Other.

The new jobs, due to be created by the end of 2026, will be in the areas of UX designers, graphic designers and content strategists serving International clients and will bring the total number of employees at Each&Other to 35.

Each&Other delivers award-winning digital experiences using a customer-centred approach to product development.  The company helps clients to grow their business, increase customer satisfaction and ship great products.  Creativity, people and partnerships are intrinsic to the company.  With their combined strengths and diverse expertise, Each&Other is committed to making a difference to each client’s unique requirements.

“2025 represents a huge milestone in Each&Other’s history,” explains Brian Herron, Director at Each&Other.  “We have grown rapidly since our founding, and we continue to scale the company at a fast pace.  Each&Other is a dynamic, ambitious and innovation-led company at the cutting edge of its industry.  We are delighted to welcome Ben to help us grow in the UK, enter new markets and continue to deliver world-class strategy, research and design for our clients.  This is an exciting time for the company and it’s a great opportunity for talented people to join our growing team.”

Each&Other’s clients span technology, finance, government, telecoms, retail and education companies.

About Each&Other

Each&Other is an Irish strategic UX design firm delivering digital customer experiences that help organisations grow and deliver great digital products to their customers.  Creativity, people and partnerships are intrinsic to Each&Other.  With their combined strengths and diverse expertise, the company is committed to making a difference to each client’s unique requirements.

Established in 2014, Each&Other is based in Dublin, employs 25 people and delivers research and digital design projects throughout EU, Middle East and USA.

What Should You Consider Before Choosing Your First Prop Firm?

Navigating the world of proprietary trading can be challenging, especially for those entering the industry for the first time. Selecting the right prop trading firm may determine the level of support, funding, and trading flexibility a new trader receives. It’s essential to evaluate each firm for its track record, payout structure, and commitment to risk management.

For example, Atmos Funded, prop trading firm, might appeal to those who value clear rules and a structured path to funding. Some firms focus heavily on fast scaling, while others, like Atmos, may place more emphasis on steady performance and risk control. It’s worth comparing how each firm handles evaluations and whether their terms match your trading style. Taking the time to weigh these differences can make a big difference in how comfortable and successful you feel as you grow.

Key Takeaways

  • The right firm provides support and funding to traders.
  • Review transparency, payout policies, and risk management thoroughly.
  • A careful selection process leads to better trading opportunities.

Essential Factors to Evaluate Before Choosing a Prop Firm

Selecting a prop trading firm means looking well beyond marketing promises. The integrity of a firm, its market access, and how it manages risk rules directly affect a trader’s experience and long-term potential for success.

Reputation and Trustworthiness

When reviewing prop trading firms, reputation should be verified through third-party reviews and trader testimonials. Established names such as FTMO, FundedNext, Topstep, and SurgeTrader have amassed large communities with a mix of positive and negative feedback. Consistent performance results and positive trader experiences are hallmarks of a reputable prop trading company.

Regulation is a key indicator of trustworthiness. In Canada and the U.S., look for firms registered with recognized authorities such as IIROC or FINRA. While not all prop firms are regulated, those that publicly list compliance details are often more transparent and reliable.

It’s also advisable to track down independent reviews across forums and social platforms. Check for reported payment issues or unethical practices. A strong track record, fair evaluation processes, and ethical conduct all indicate a reputable prop trading firm.

Trading Instruments and Markets Offered

Each prop trading firm offers a different menu of financial instruments and asset classes. Traders should identify firms that support their preferred markets, such as forex trading, stocks, futures, options, cryptocurrency, or CFDs. For example, FTMO is well known for its wide forex offering, whereas Topstep primarily focuses on futures.

Some firms, like Funding Pips or FXIFY, specialize in forex or indices. Others enable access to larger markets, including stock market trading, energy, or real estate derivatives. Always review the platform’s full list of supported financial instruments.

It’s important to consider market hours, liquidity, and trade execution speed. The diversity of markets and instruments can impact trading strategies, so choose a firm that aligns with personal strengths and interests.

Risk Management and Trading Rules

Every proprietary trading firm enforces risk policies to protect both the company and funded traders. Rules often include maximum drawdown limits, strict daily loss caps, and profit targets. Failure to follow these guidelines can lead to account termination or removal from a funding program.

Important risk management factors to check include the firm’s approach to scaling plans, how it handles position sizing, and whether it offers trailing drawdowns or fixed limits. For example, Topstep and FTMO both have clear, rule-based evaluation processes that focus on discipline and consistency.

Before joining any prop firm, study the terms for funded accounts, withdrawal procedures, and what happens in edge-case drawdown situations. Reliable firms provide transparent risk parameters and reinforce a culture of responsible trading. 

Practical Considerations When Selecting Your First Prop Trading Firm

Choosing a prop trading firm goes beyond headline numbers. Traders should analyse costs, technology, and support to ensure the firm aligns with their trading style, financial goals, and need for adaptability in diverse markets.

Cost Structure and Payouts

The structure of fees and payouts directly impacts a trader’s overall profitability and ability to achieve their financial objectives. Prospective funded traders should assess evaluation fees, recurring expenses, and the firm’s profit split. Firms may offer splits ranging from 70/30 up to 90/10 in favour of the trader, but the best deal is not always the highest split.

Day traders and those using retail trading approaches should check for any hidden costs, such as withdrawal fees, inactivity charges, or unexpected platform costs. Understanding payout schedules—whether payouts are weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly—is critical for reliable income planning. Some prop firms impose limits on the minimum or maximum withdrawal, so reading the terms is non-negotiable.

Firms granting sizeable trading capital may require traders to meet strict trading conditions. Always evaluate how leverage is structured, keeping risk appetite and trading strategies in mind. 

Technology, Tools, and Platforms

Access to robust technology forms the foundation of modern trading activities. The right firm provides access to competitive trading platforms such as MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and proprietary or third-party alternatives. These platforms should support automated trading and offer rich sets of analytical tools, indicators, and risk management features.

A good prop firm also supplies demo accounts for backtesting strategies and refining techniques before going live. The adaptability of platforms to multiple devices—desktop, web, and mobile—is important for day traders or those trading from home.

Advanced tech enables retail traders to maintain a competitive edge through real-time data, fast execution, and efficient trade management. It’s wise to check integration with reliable brokers and the quality of financial services, such as banking and withdrawal processes. 

Conclusion

Selecting a prop firm requires careful review of factors such as reputation, profit splits, trading conditions, and risk management rules. Traders benefit from assessing fee structures, payout processes, and the flexibility offered for different trading styles.

Evaluating multiple firms and comparing their offerings helps individuals find the most suitable option for their goals. Clear and transparent rules, as well as strong support systems, contribute to a productive trading experience.

 

IP law firm FRKelly announces move to new Dublin office

FRKelly, leading specialist in intellectual property law, has announced its relocation to news offices at Waterways House, Grand Canal Quay, marking a significant milestone for the firm as it embraces a new era of growth. The firm’s move to Dublin’s Silicon Docks comes after spending 56 years in Clyde Road, Ballsbridge.

The new office, nestled in the heart of the Grand Canal area, is strategically positioned within Ireland’s innovation epicentre surrounded by a multitude of offices, young professionals and visionary entrepreneurs. Its central location is equidistant between Dublin’s traditional central business district of St. Stephen’s Green and Fitzwilliam Square, along with the commercial hubs on the Liffey Docks. It is also easily accessible by various modes of public transport.

Offering a breath-taking view overlooking the Grand Canal Dock, Waterways House is a multi-storey building designed and constructed to the prestigious LEED Gold standard that promises sophistication and sustainability. As well as the new Dublin head office, FRKelly has a presence in Belfast and Cork, with offices in both locations.

Gavan Ferguson, Managing Partner at FRKelly, said: “Waterways House embodies the spirit of progress and forward-thinking. The transition to the new office marks a brand-new chapter for FRKelly, unlocking boundless opportunities for business growth and innovation. This strategic shift aligns with our commitment to fostering creativity and collaboration, ultimately enabling us to attract top-tier talent and further elevate our services to clients.”

Currently employing 32 patent and trade mark attorneys, FRKelly foresees further growth in 2024. The firm’s recent recognition in the prestigious IAM 1000 patent rankings in 2023 and acknowledgment of four of its attorneys as IP Stars 2023 for their exceptional contributions in patent and trademark law further consolidate FRKelly’s standing as an industry leader poised for continued success.

Irish Tech Firm Xtremepush Wins ‘Online Initiative of The Year’ for “Outstanding progress in the fight against phishing” At Europe FinTech Awards 2022

Irish tech firm Xtremepush has won Online Initiative of the Year at the Europe FinTech Awards, 2022, for the work they did with one of Ireland’s biggest financial institutions to reduce online fraud.

CELEBRATING EUROPE’S FINEST FINTECHS

Irish tech firm Xt

remepush has won Online Initiative of the Year at the Europe FinTech Awards, 2022, for the work they did with one of Ireland’s biggest financial institutions to reduce online fraud.

The Europe FinTech Awards 2022 in association with ID-Pal is the benchmark by which financial services modernisation and technological progress in the world’s premier financial services centres are judged by an independent panel of experts.

“Outstanding progress in the fight against phishing”

The independent panel of judges voted Xtremepush “The winner of Online Initiative of the Year because they presented an excellent solution to a very real problem, utilising its technology to achieve a significant reduction in fraudulent activity. This initiative also demonstrates the solution’s ability to scale up in the future. Outstanding progress in the fight against phishing.”

Commenting on the award CTO Dr Kevin Collins said “We are delighted with this significant win. Phishing scams and identity fraud increased by 184% in 2021, costing the Irish economy €1 billion every year, so our objective was to quickly put in place a failsafe that would make it significantly harder for fraudsters to gain access to customer bank accounts. Based on research, €8,000 is defrauded for every 1,000 people in Ireland. Our innovation led directly to a circa 50% reduction in phishing attempts as part of a wider strategy to reduce fraud.”

He added “Our innovation allowed the bank to provide customers with a secure notification and reliable verification alerting solution that didn’t require adding any complexity or multi-stage processes to their banking experience. The result is a robust level of protection from fraud and cyber-criminals.”

Working with the financial institution, Xtremepush developed a revised verification process to reinforce the existing anti-fraud measures. The company developed and deployed a solution within six weeks to significantly reduce fraudulent activity.

Dr Kevin Collins added “We needed to utilise the existing technology and deliver an effective response to the issue of fraud that wouldn’t significantly impact the user experience for the bank’s 2 million customers.”

The solution allowed the bank’s customers to confirm the validity of device registration and add new account payees by leveraging a multi-channel communication strategy. This allowed the customer to either confirm or reject the request and alert the bank to take steps to re-secure their account if this was required.

Xtremepush faced several challenges: the solution needed to work the first time, said Collins. “Because we were taking direct action against fraudsters and cyber-criminals, a miscalculation on our part would have allowed them to find a way around the solution”

Secondly, the company needed to work fast: comments Xtremepush CEO Tommy Kearns “We were approached by our client at the end of 2021 with an urgent request to help combat fraud. We needed to respond quickly and decisively with a solution that could be rolled out with minimal disruption alongside other anti-fraud measures the bank was deploying.” He added, “we had to work within the existing infrastructure and compliance requirements of our client to avoid any disruption to banking services via the mobile app and to ensure we were fully compliant with guidelines and regulations. And of course, any solution we proposed had to operate within established security standards of the bank as well as GDPR and other data protection legislation.”

Xtremepush goes global

Xtremepush will more than double its workforce here in support of the global roll-out of its award-winning enterprise customer intelligence platform and recently announced it has created fifty new roles this year, with plans to add another 120 in the next three years, and a new purpose-built Dublin HQ in Clarendon Street, Dublin 2.

“We are already becoming a global category leader, working with leading enterprise clients from offices in Ireland, the United Kingdom, North America and Eastern Europe. Our new Dublin flagship headquarters, in this prime location, is a marker of further growth acceleration” said CEO Tommy Kearns.

Reflecting this push into the US market, the company has recently invested in a new office in downtown Manhattan in New York to meet that ambition and support the firm’s accelerated growth in North America, where they recently won Marketing & Services Provider of the Year at the SBC North America 2022 Awards.

The SBC Awards recognize the achievements of operators, affiliates and suppliers from all the major disciplines including payments, marketing, platform providers and data. The 2022 SBC Awards North America also celebrate the companies surviving and thriving 2022 through these unprecedented times.

About Xtremepush

Founded in 2014 in Ranelagh in Dublin, by CEO Tommy Kearns and Dr Kevin Collins, its Chief Technical Officer, Xtremepush has been placed in the Deloitte Technology Fast 50 Awards for three consecutive years.

Xtremepush works with a global portfolio of clients across several key verticals including banking & financial services, eCommerce, sports betting & gaming, travel & transport and publishing & media. The company owns its technology, end-to-end, supporting a single customer view, with ‘one platform’ serving all marketing needs.

Deep data & real time capabilities make Xtremepush a go-to multichannel marketing hub for enterprise brands. It enables businesses to acquire new customers and communicate with existing customers through automated, real-time and personalised messaging.

Clients include leading Irish financial institutions, McDonald’s, INM Plc, RTÉ, Dublin Airport Authority (DAA), Big Bus Tours, Wowcher, LiveScore, Oddschecker, Paddy Power Betfair and more. Xtremepush is an employer in Ireland, the UK, the US, Ukraine, Lithuania, Turkey, Poland, the Czech Republic and Romania.