3 minutes reading time
(531 words)
The Devil in the Detail – Why Report Formatting Matters
Wednesday 27th August at 1pm
In this week’s IPSA Kind Of Magic, this episode highlights something that doesn’t always get the spotlight – report formatting. It might sound minor, but for anyone working in conveyancing, the way a search report is presented can make a major difference.
Poor formatting creates confusion. Important findings get buried. Time gets wasted searching for what should have been clearly flagged. That extra phone call or email? It’s often because the report wasn’t clear, not because the information was wrong. And yet, with so many providers relying on templated layouts or automation, the risks of unclear formatting are becoming more common.
On Wednesday 27th August at 1pm, Gareth Wax and Hamish McLay return to the mic to ask a simple question: why does formatting matter so much – and what do IPSA members do differently?
The conversation will look at how a well-structured search report isn’t just a nice touch – it’s a working tool. When law firms are under pressure, they need to be able to scan reports quickly and pick out the key risks or limitations without hunting through jargon, walls of text or inconsistent layouts. A professionally formatted report can speed up the review process, reduce queries, and build confidence with clients.
In many firms, the initial triage of searches is now done by junior staff or paralegals. If a report is vague or unclear, that lack of clarity can lead to missed issues or unnecessary requisitions. IPSA members know that the way information is laid out plays a huge part in how it's received. That's why many include a clear summary page, detailed headings, plain language, and a covering letter to point the solicitor in the right direction.
There’s also the matter of trust. A well-presented report sends a clear signal: this has been prepared by someone who takes their work seriously. It shows care and consideration for the end user – whether that’s a solicitor, a buyer, or a lender. In a market where not all providers meet the same standards, presentation becomes a visible sign of professionalism.
We’ll also be looking at the risks of automated systems that generate reports without human oversight. These tools are often fast, yet they can miss the nuance and contextual understanding that comes with experience. Even when the data is correct, if the formatting buries key points or uses confusing language, it can still lead to delay.
IPSA members are proud of the standards they uphold. And while formatting might not always be the headline topic, it plays a fundamental role in how smoothly a property transaction progresses. Whether it’s clear maps, labelled sections, or summaries that explain rather than obscure, this week’s podcast will highlight the quiet power of good presentation.
Tune in on Wednesday and join the discussion. As always, questions and contributions are welcome – before, during or after the episode.
Never miss an episode of IPSA Kind Of Magic – subscribe here:
https://www.youtube.com/@SpillingTheProper-Tea
PS:
For content enquiries:This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
For podcast/media info:This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
In this week’s IPSA Kind Of Magic, this episode highlights something that doesn’t always get the spotlight – report formatting. It might sound minor, but for anyone working in conveyancing, the way a search report is presented can make a major difference.
Poor formatting creates confusion. Important findings get buried. Time gets wasted searching for what should have been clearly flagged. That extra phone call or email? It’s often because the report wasn’t clear, not because the information was wrong. And yet, with so many providers relying on templated layouts or automation, the risks of unclear formatting are becoming more common.
On Wednesday 27th August at 1pm, Gareth Wax and Hamish McLay return to the mic to ask a simple question: why does formatting matter so much – and what do IPSA members do differently?
The conversation will look at how a well-structured search report isn’t just a nice touch – it’s a working tool. When law firms are under pressure, they need to be able to scan reports quickly and pick out the key risks or limitations without hunting through jargon, walls of text or inconsistent layouts. A professionally formatted report can speed up the review process, reduce queries, and build confidence with clients.
In many firms, the initial triage of searches is now done by junior staff or paralegals. If a report is vague or unclear, that lack of clarity can lead to missed issues or unnecessary requisitions. IPSA members know that the way information is laid out plays a huge part in how it's received. That's why many include a clear summary page, detailed headings, plain language, and a covering letter to point the solicitor in the right direction.
There’s also the matter of trust. A well-presented report sends a clear signal: this has been prepared by someone who takes their work seriously. It shows care and consideration for the end user – whether that’s a solicitor, a buyer, or a lender. In a market where not all providers meet the same standards, presentation becomes a visible sign of professionalism.
We’ll also be looking at the risks of automated systems that generate reports without human oversight. These tools are often fast, yet they can miss the nuance and contextual understanding that comes with experience. Even when the data is correct, if the formatting buries key points or uses confusing language, it can still lead to delay.
IPSA members are proud of the standards they uphold. And while formatting might not always be the headline topic, it plays a fundamental role in how smoothly a property transaction progresses. Whether it’s clear maps, labelled sections, or summaries that explain rather than obscure, this week’s podcast will highlight the quiet power of good presentation.
Tune in on Wednesday and join the discussion. As always, questions and contributions are welcome – before, during or after the episode.
Never miss an episode of IPSA Kind Of Magic – subscribe here:
https://www.youtube.com/@SpillingTheProper-Tea
PS:
For content enquiries:
For podcast/media info:
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