A small firm can expect to spend about $100 per user (minimum 10 users) for the Firstclass server and user licenses. A normal PC running Windows 2000, NT Workstation, NT Server or a MAC OS9 is needed to host the server software. The office does not have to be networked, but a Local Area Network is best.

Project managers should have access to laptops. The least expensive sell for $700. The administrative assistant should have an all-in-one scanner/printer/fax machine. HP sells an excellent machine for less than $500.

The office should have a DSL or cable modem connection to the Internet, but dial-up connections will work if DSL is not available.

Other costs are for customizing the system to your company (your logos, forms to match your procedures), setting up conferences and accounts, installing the server software, start-up, introductory training and follow-up.

These other services are provided on an hourly fee basis. Or for a flat fee per month for 1, 2 or 3 months. A small, computer savvy company able to make decisions, able to make people available to implement the system can be self sufficient within 1 month.

Larger firms, with less time available for implementation, and a slower decision making process can be self sufficient within 3 months.

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