Issue link: https://epubs.iltanet.org/i/16612
Effective project management is essential, as is technical research, and proper preparation and study in areas such as networking, BGP, routing and switching and information systems security. As for the “on the ground” view of how we achieved these objectives, our webinar technologies come in two flavors: one is via a hosted service using Adobe Connect for large meetings, and the other is via Meeting Place Express, which we host internally. We introduced presence technology by implementing Cisco Unified Presence, and our Web filtering solution was moved to the cloud by implementing Zscaler’s SaaS. Finally, our WAN optimization was a Riverbed deployment. Like any other IT department, we faced our share of challenges. We had a long and tough contract negotiation with telephone and data service providers, which we overcame by patiently managing both internal and external relationships, which ultimately led to a win-win agreement. A lot of planning and preparation went into the introduction of new and complex routing protocols and services to our network, such as BGP and Cisco Service Assurance Agent. This upfront work resulted in meeting implementation expectations and avoiding major issues during this process. However, we struggled with our Web security solution as it was getting very complicated, to the point that we had about six servers doing this task. By conducting intensive research in the information security area and technology providers, as well as conducting a proof of concept with two different providers, I was able to convince management to move our Web security solution to a SaaS model, which wasn’t an easy task. It kind of became a paradigm shift for our technology department. Videoconferencing and security technologies have enabled the firm to conduct client meetings, depositions, and other meetings via videoconference and Web conference. Additionally, we have upgraded endpoint anti-virus software, reducing malware and virus infections, and by working closely with our co- location vendor, we were able to deliver dual power feeds to all of our racks in the data center. Over the past year, the reasons for our success have been numerous. One of the highlights has been the innovative introduction of in-house webinar capabilities using Meeting Place to replace approximately one-third of travel (and the associated travel costs) previously required for: training of new employees, lunch- n-learns, remote depositions, mediations and multi-location conferences. We introduced and sold the idea to key management members by professionally conveying potential savings and increased capabilities, and coordinated closely with and carefully collected input from staff members and attorneys, analyzed reported needs/ ideas and translated technology into business savings while simultaneously meeting critical business goals. ILTA there’s more online! Article: The Business of Law Strong Support for the Practice of Law ILTA White Paper March 2010 Online Collaboration Enhances Business Operations at Nexsen Pruet www.iltanet.org Infrastructure Technologies 23