Drake Software — Drake Document Manager

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From the August 2008 Review of Document Storage Programs

As you might expect, the primary value of Drake Document Manager (Drake DM) is its direct integration with the Drake tax software. It is offered free of charge for the Drake tax software users and has limited functionality beyond the tax software integration. Therefore, this review is based on the premise that it will be implemented as an integrated solution with Drake’s tax software.

Usability -- 4 Stars
The user interface is designed to emulate the Windows Explorer folder structure. The left window panel displays the file system organized by letters of the alphabet as a way of providing a first-level sort on client names. The user interface is very intuitive and extremely easy to work with.

Document Organization -- 5 Stars
Based on the emulation of the Windows Explorer folder model, the system is designed to use a cabinet/drawer/folder structure. You can define the default folder structure for a client. The most noteworthy feature is that when you add a client to the tax software, it will also add the client in the DM software and create the default folder structure. You can customize the folder structure for all clients or individual clients. A new tax folder set is created for each year.

Integration -- 4.5 Stars
As previously noted, Drake DM is directly integrated with the vendor’s tax preparation, tax planning and client write-up applications. If you chose the option to print a tax return to PDF, it will automatically file it in the client’s tax folder. The system includes a proprietary print driver that allows you to convert any printed report or document directly to PDF format and then select the client folder under which to file. You can import files from other directories on your computer or you can link to them in the Document Manager and leave the file in a separate directory. You can also scan documents directly into the selected client’s folder.

Annotation -- 3 Stars
The system relies on the native applications for annotation capabilities.

Overall Value -- 4 Stars
Drake DM is a natural solution for those who are working with Drake’s tax or client write-up software. You can’t beat the price since it is free for the vendor’s tax software users. Training is provided through a three-hour CPE session that covers multiple products, including about 45 minutes on the Document Manager. Drake Software also has online courses that can be viewed as needed.

2008 Overall Rating: 4 Stars