Business Lawyers Blog
Enforceable contracts that accurately describe an agreement between the parties are essential to any business, regardless of industry. Contracts arise in many relationships, including with partners, businesses, suppliers, employees, and client or customers, and a company of even moderate size could easily have thousands of contracts with various parties. For this reason, implementing a system to manage contracts and ensure compliance can significantly improve efficiency, improve compliance, and reduce the risk of incurring legal liability that can arise from contract disputes. In addition, an effective contract management system can help automate certain tasks, significantly reducing the risk of human error resulting in a costly dispute. Below are 4 ways in which implementing a contract management system can help businesses in every aspect of the contract lifecycle management process.
- Keep all contracts in a central repository – This benefit may seem simple, but consider the inefficiency involved in an employee searching through files upon files for a contract that may have been executed years ago. An effective contract management system can keep a copy of the contract itself while also summarizing key facts regarding the agreement in a way in which they are easily accessible to those searching.
- Create a database of standard agreement and pre-approved substitutions – There is no need to reinvent the wheel every time your company enters into a new agreement. Creating a standardized contract for use in recurring situations as well as standard substitutions that are pre-approved for use can significantly improve efficiency in contract drafting and execution.
- Send out alerts to appropriate parties when certain triggering events occur – Many contracts have provisions that trigger significant obligations or forfeitures on a certain date or in the event of a particular occurrence. A sophisticated contract management system can alert the appropriate party to the existence of a deadline, renewal, payment error, or terminating event.
- Provide insight into corporate obligations – An effective contract management system will be able to provide clear data as to a company’s obligations, whether they are being met, their performance in meeting obligations, and a more comprehensive view of the company’s performance as a while. In addition, it can provide legal counsel with insight as to areas in contract management that may benefit from changes.
Contact a San Jose business law firm today to schedule a consultation with an experienced lawyer
A comprehensive and well-maintained contract management system can increase efficiency and reduce costs for businesses of all sizes. In addition, automating certain tasks associated with the life-cycle of a contract has the potential to reduce contract disputes and legal liability. For this reason, it is advisable for business owners to discuss their contract management options with an attorney familiar with contract management systems and their implementation. To schedule an appointment with one of our experienced San Jose business attorneys, call the Structure Law Group today at 408-441-7500.