Finding the right legal practice management software can be an overwhelming process with so many options to evaluate.
This comparative review promises to clearly outline the core features, benefits, pricing, and support of two top solutions - SmokeBall and Rocket Matter - to help simplify your software selection.
You'll get an in-depth yet concise analysis of SmokeBall vs Rocket Matter capabilities across key areas like document automation, calendaring, billing, reporting, and more. We'll also provide tailored recommendations based on legal practice needs and budgets to help you make the best choice.
Introduction to Legal Practice Management Software
Legal practice management software helps law firms streamline operations and manage cases more efficiently. In this article, we will compare two popular options - Smokeball and Rocket Matter.
Exploring the Features of Smokeball
Smokeball is known for its user-friendly interface and robust document automation capabilities. Key features include:
- Document assembly to easily generate custom legal documents
- Centralized calendaring for tracking deadlines and events
- Time tracking tools for capturing billable and non-billable time
- Task management with assignable checklists
- Cloud-based access and iPhone/Android apps
Smokeball offers flat-rate pricing starting at $65 per user/month.
Understanding Rocket Matter's Capabilities
Rocket Matter focuses more on case and contact management. Notable features include:
- Customizable databases to organize case details
- Automated date calculations for deadlines
- Robust reporting and analytics
- Integrations with Clio, Dropbox, and Office 365
- iPhone/Android apps
Rocket Matter pricing starts at $45 per user/month. Volume discounts available.
Direct Feature Comparison: Smokeball vs Rocket Matter
When directly comparing features:
- Smokeball has more powerful document automation while Rocket Matter offers better analytics.
- Both provide solid calendaring and task management, with Smokeball rated easier to use.
- Rocket Matter has more third-party integrations available.
- Smokeball offers unlimited storage while Rocket Matter has caps.
- Mobile access is available on both iOS and Android apps for both tools.
In summary, Smokeball excels at document assembly while Rocket Matter focuses more on deep reporting. Firms should weigh their specific needs and priorities when deciding between the two platforms. Those needing heavy custom document generation may favor Smokeball, while those wanting robust analytics may prefer Rocket Matter.
In-Depth Benefits Analysis: Smokeball and Rocket Matter
The Advantages of Using Smokeball
Smokeball offers several key benefits for law practices seeking to improve efficiency and streamline operations. Some of the standout features include:
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Workflow Rules Engine: Smokeball has a powerful rules engine that allows firms to easily automate repetitive tasks and route work to the right staff. This saves time and reduces errors from manual work.
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Document Automation: The software includes tools to quickly generate custom documents from templates. This is useful for repetitive documents like retainer agreements, allowing firms to standardize and scale.
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Time Tracking: Smokeball enables easy time entry through its browser-based interface or mobile apps. The system can ensure accurate client billing.
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Integrations: Smokeball integrates with other popular legal software like Clio and Xero to centralize practice management. Data flows seamlessly between tools.
The Strengths of Rocket Matter
Some of the notable capabilities provided by Rocket Matter include:
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Mobile Apps: Rocket Matter offers full-featured iOS and Android apps that allow remote access and mobility. Lawyers can work from anywhere with an internet connection.
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Cloud Storage Integrations: Native integrations with cloud storage platforms like Dropbox, Google Drive, and Box simplify document management. Content flows directly into the platform.
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Calendaring: The system has robust calendars for scheduling events, calls, meetings, and deadlines. This helps keep the practice coordinated and on track.
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Custom Reporting: Users can create fully customized reports to extract key insights from platform data to inform strategy and operations.
Benefit by Benefit Showdown: Smokeball vs Rocket Matter
When directly comparing the capabilities of Smokeball and Rocket Matter:
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For workflow automation, Smokeball provides more robust tools through its rules engine to streamline repetitive tasks.
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Rocket Matter has an edge for mobility with full-featured iOS and Android apps. Smokeball offers more limited mobile access.
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Both platforms offer strong document generation and templates, but Smokeball enables editing directly within the system while Rocket Matter relies more on integrations.
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For integrations with cloud storage, Rocket Matter has broader native connectivity while Smokeball relies on more limited third-party extensions.
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Rocket Matter provides more customizable reporting while Smokeball's options are more predefined. However, Smokeball includes more out-of-the-box metrics.
In summary, Smokeball excels more at process automation while Rocket Matter leads for mobility and customization. Firms should weigh their specific priorities and needs when deciding between the two capable solutions.
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Comparative Pricing Review: Smokeball vs Rocket Matter
SmokeBall's Pricing Structure
SmokeBall offers flexible pricing plans for solo attorneys, small law firms, and large law firms. Their pricing is based on a per user model with discounts for annual subscriptions. Some key details on their pricing include:
- Solo plan starts at $39 per month per user
- Small firm plans start at $29 per month per user for teams of 2-10 users
- Enterprise pricing available for large law firms with discounts based on volume
- Free 7-day trial to test out the software
SmokeBall does not publicly list detailed pricing on their website. You need to request a custom quote to get exact pricing details for your law firm. Their published prices provide a starting point for small and solo firms.
Rocket Matter's Pricing Options
Rocket Matter is transparent about their pricing plans and options on their website. Their plans are also priced per user per month, with discounts for annual contracts. Some key Rocket Matter pricing details:
- Solo plan starts at $49.95 per user per month
- Team plans start at $32.95 per user per month for teams between 2-9 users
- Enterprise pricing for larger firms with custom quotes
- 14-day free trial period
Discounts are offered for annual contracts. Rocket Matter also has a referral program for customers to earn free months of service.
Evaluating Costs: Smokeball vs Rocket Matter
When comparing the published pricing on both platforms, Rocket Matter's starting plans are around 20-30% more expensive than SmokeBall. However, Rocket Matter offers more pricing transparency upfront, while SmokeBall requires a custom quote.
For small and solo law firms under 10 users, SmokeBall seems to offer better value with lower per user rates. For larger firms, both provide enterprise pricing with custom quotes based on volumes and features needed.
While SmokeBall has a lower entry price point, Rocket Matter offers a longer risk-free trial at 14 days compared to 7 days. Their referral program also allows customers to earn free months. When evaluating overall value for money, SmokeBall edges out Rocket Matter for smaller firms, while larger firms would need to evaluate custom enterprise pricing quotes from both vendors.
Support and Implementation Showdown
Getting Started with SmokeBall
SmokeBall offers comprehensive implementation and onboarding support to ensure a smooth transition for new customers. Their dedicated implementation specialists work closely with each customer to understand their unique needs, data migration requirements, and desired workflows.
The onboarding process begins with discovery calls to map out the specifics of the firm and identify any customizations required. SmokeBall then handles all data migration, ensures full integration with other systems, and provides customized training. Users have access to live onboarding sessions, recorded demos tailored to their practice area, and unlimited phone and email support.
SmokeBall aims to simplify the onboarding process as much as possible. Most customers are up and running within 2-4 weeks.
Onboarding with Rocket Matter
Rocket Matter focuses on tailoring the onboarding and implementation process to each customer's individual needs and preferences. They assign a dedicated implementation manager who oversees the entire process from start to finish.
The manager begins by learning about the firm's goals, challenges, and desired functionality. Rocket Matter then migrates data, sets up customized workflows, integrates other programs, and delivers customized training materials catered to different user roles. Users can access interactive onboarding webinars, on-demand training videos, quick start guides, and chat support.
While timelines vary, most customers complete implementation within 4-6 weeks. Rocket Matter's flexible approach ensures a smooth transition.
Customer Support Face-Off: Smokeball vs Rocket Matter
Both platforms offer excellent ongoing customer support via multiple channels. Users have access to email support, chat, phone assistance, and an online knowledge base.
However, Rocket Matter stands out for its white glove approach focused on individual users' evolving needs over time. They assign each customer an account manager who regularly checks in to assist with questions, additional training requests, or new feature rollouts.
SmokeBall offers more self-service options through its searchable support site, on-demand training videos, and online community forums. While users have access to email and chat support, interaction tends to be more transactional.
So firms that desire a high-touch, personalized support experience may favor Rocket Matter's model. But those seeking more DIY resources and peer connections can thrive with SmokeBall's approach.
Final Verdict: SmokeBall or Rocket Matter?
Summarizing the Smokeball vs Rocket Matter Debate
SmokeBall and Rocket Matter are both practice management software solutions catered towards legal professionals. Key similarities include:
- Cloud-based systems with mobile apps
- Core features like document management, calendars, templates
- Robust time tracking and billing capabilities
However, there are some notable differences:
- SmokeBall has more affordable pricing plans starting under $30 per month. Rocket Matter pricing starts at $65 per month.
- Rocket Matter offers more customization and integration capabilities. SmokeBall has a simpler interface.
- SmokeBall includes built-in AI features like document review. Rocket Matter focuses more on collaboration.
So in summary, SmokeBall provides an affordable all-in-one legal software solution, while Rocket Matter offers greater flexibility and customizability for larger firms.
Tailored Recommendations for Legal Practices
Here are some tailored recommendations based on law firm needs:
Small Firms
SmokeBall is likely the better choice for solos and small firms under 5 users. The affordable pricing, bundled features, and intuitive interface cater well to their needs.
Mid to Large Firms
For larger practices with more complex needs, Rocket Matter is recommended. The broader integration and customization options can scale with firm growth and support more robust workflows.
Firms Seeking AI Capabilities
SmokeBall's built-in AI for tasks like contract review makes it a great pick for forward-thinking firms interested in artificial intelligence.
So in conclusion, solos and small firms are likely best served by SmokeBall, while larger firms benefit more from Rocket Matter's customizability. Those interested specifically in AI may lean towards SmokeBall. Evaluate your firm's unique needs and priorities to determine the best solution.
