The quarterly publication of the International Legal Technology Association
Issue link: https://epubs.iltanet.org/i/163881
can limit the association to only the Start screen and not the desktop applications, and Web filter rules can block streaming and social media at the office. Away from the office, personal and corporate apps can co-exist on the same device. This does not completely solve data governance concerns, as it is still possible to save files to Skydrive and other apps that have access to desktop data. Legacy Application Support: Like the iPad, the Surface RT does not natively support legacy applications. It would need to rely on Terminal Server or VDI sessions, and a VPN option from the short list of compatible vendors (which is supposed to improve after an upcoming update). Similar to an ultrabook, all necessary legacy applications (Windows 7-compatible or virtualized) could be installed on the Surface Pro or used remotely — such as with the RT tablet, but without the VPN limitations. The Surface Pro, with Windows 8 64-bit edition and a laptopbased Intel processor, has the ability to run both modern apps and traditional (Windows 7) applications. Required Infrastructure Changes and Costs: If a terminal server or VDI environment is needed for legacy applications, the cost of the remote access infrastructure would be comparable to the low-end of the iPad cost range, as the integrated Remote Desktop Protocol client and mouse support handle some of the high-end options. The RT has built-in printing support (network and USB) using Windows print drivers with some limitations, reducing the need for separate print servers, but you will likely need to provide printer access to guest networks. The Surface Pro requires fewer infrastructure changes if used in a corporate-provided, domain-joined scenario as it can connect to existing enterprise networks and VPN. If applications are installed locally and the device is not reliant on remote access, there would 76 Peer to Peer be no need for an immense terminal server farm. Like the Surface RT, the Pro can print natively using Windows print drivers and servers, but with connection to the enterprise network (not the guest network) no printer infrastructure changes should be necessary. This would keep infrastructure costs in the five figures for RT, with potentially zero cost for the Pro. With the price range of the Surface RT being $499-599, and the Pro being $899-999, Surface tablets can still be cost competitive with ultrabooks. Additional Thoughts: There are a lot of rumors about the Surface tablets related to new hardware versions and software updates. The upcoming Windows 8.1 update (currently available from Microsoft in preview form) includes additional multitasking snap positions, additional Start screen icon sizes, an RT version of Microsoft Outlook and additional supported VPN vendors. Many of the common usability complaints were also addressed, including the return of the Start button on the desktop and a better settings menu layout. As for the hardware rumors, there is strong evidence of a Surface RT revision or replacement (switching from an ARM processor to an Intel mobile variant). The Surface RT 2 reportedly will be switching to a new Snapdragon processor over the current NVIDIA processor, or it will be replaced by a new Intel mobile processor, which would eliminate the need for Windows RT. The Surface Pro 2 rumors include a new Intel Haswell processor offering double (eight hours) the battery life, fan-free cooling and perhaps a docking station option. Little is known about the smaller Surface design, and rumors range from a smaller RT to an Xbox companion device to a mini Surface Pro combined with a dock for heavy use. Regardless of how future Surface tablets are equipped, the current devices are just the beginning. TESTING COMPLETE The iPad and Surface can indeed replace laptops, but the degree of success will vary by organization and user. Litigation attorneys and paralegals may need access to legacy trial and e-discovery databases, and others may want access to full versions of Microsoft Office applications. These needs would be more in line with the Surface Pro or an ultrabook. Contrasted to the legacy application-dependent are those who just need access to email and the ability to view documents in the document management system, relying on a secretary to make document edits. This group is more in line with needing the functionality of the iPad or Surface RT. There are also dual (or multiple) device scenarios, including a desktop PC for legacy applications along with an iPad or Surface RT, or BYOD support of tablets in addition to corporate-provided devices. However, in a single-device scenario where at least some legacy application access is needed, infrastructure changes need to be minimal and a tablet is preferred, the Surface Pro (or the upcoming Surface Pro 2) is a tough solution to beat.