If you’re managing operations, compliance, or making technology decisions at a Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firm, you already know how important document management is. Whether it’s for client records, contracts, or compliance audits, your system needs to be secure, reliable, and easy to use.
Many RIAs have relied on Laserfiche for years. But the technology landscape has changed—especially with how much the Microsoft platform has evolved. If you’re already using Microsoft 365, then you may not realize that you already have access to a more secure, streamlined, and cost-effective alternative—SharePoint.
1. You’re Likely Paying for Redundancy
Laserfiche doesn’t stand alone. It usually requires a file server or third-party hosting service—and in many cases, you still need SharePoint or Microsoft 365 to run other parts of your business.
So why pay twice?
SharePoint offers all the core functionality RIAs use Laserfiche for: document storage, version control, retention policies, secure sharing, and compliance workflows. But it’s already part of your Microsoft 365 platform—no extra licenses, no bolt-on servers, and no separate vendors to manage.
2. Built-In Compliance and Security
As an RIA, you’re governed by strict SEC and FINRA regulations. Laserfiche users often assume the system automatically handles retention, backup, and legal hold requirements—but that’s not always the case. In fact, many setups require additional vendors just to stay compliant.
SharePoint, on the other hand, comes with built-in compliance tools:
- SEC 17a-4 and FINRA-compatible retention
- Preservation lock
- Granular access controls
- Built-in audit trails
And because it’s part of Microsoft 365, it benefits from the full weight of Microsoft’s security infrastructure—no VPNs, no legacy remote desktops, and no waiting hours for disaster recovery if something goes wrong.
3. You’re Probably Only Using a Fraction of Laserfiche’s Features
We’ve seen it time and again: RIAs paying for a “sophisticated” solution but only using 2–3 core features. In many cases, they’re using Laserfiche like a glorified file folder—while the true power of the system (like redaction or workflow automation) goes untouched.
With SharePoint, you can:
- Automate document review workflows
- Organize and classify files by client, date, or compliance requirement
- Access everything securely from any device, anywhere
And because it’s integrated into Microsoft Teams and Outlook, your team can collaborate and manage documents in the same place they already work.
4. It’s Just as Easy to Use—And More Flexible
Some firms stick with Laserfiche simply because it feels familiar. But SharePoint has come a long way. The modern interface is clean, intuitive, and easy to navigate—especially for teams already using Microsoft apps.
Plus, scanning documents into SharePoint is as simple as configuring your scanner to drop files into a SharePoint-connected folder. No extra software. No clunky remote desktop connections. Just scan and go.
5. Migration Is Easier Than You Think
Worried about the hassle of moving years of files and processes from Laserfiche to SharePoint? You’re not alone—but the good news is, the migration process is more straightforward than most RIAs expect.
With the right planning and support, your documents, folder structures, and even metadata can be migrated smoothly into SharePoint. Tools and scripts designed specifically for content migration help ensure that nothing is lost and everything is securely transferred.
Even better—most RIAs discover that they were only using a handful of Laserfiche’s features, and those same (or better) tools are already available in SharePoint. A focused migration means you’re only bringing over what you truly need—and setting up your new system to work better from day one.
And here’s an important point: you don’t have to stop using Laserfiche on day one. You can migrate your documents and start using SharePoint while keeping Laserfiche active in the background. Once you’re confident that SharePoint meets your needs—and your team is comfortable using it—you can fully retire Laserfiche.
Whether you’re working with an IT provider who knows the RIA space or handling the process internally, migration doesn’t need to be disruptive. In fact, it’s often the first step toward modernizing your entire compliance and operations infrastructure.
The Bottom Line
If your firm is already using Microsoft 365, you have what you need to replace Laserfiche. SharePoint offers the same functionality—often with better compliance, more flexibility, and fewer costs.
This isn’t about cutting corners. It’s about modernizing your tech stack and getting more out of what you’re already paying for.
Want to learn more about IT support designed specifically for RIAs?
Let’s talk about your setup and how SharePoint—and other Microsoft tools—can simplify your compliance, security, and daily operations. Schedule a discovery call.