Issue link: https://epubs.iltanet.org/i/16612
MOVING BUSINESS COMMUNICATION TO THE CLOUD • Secure search and retrieval generally at no extra charge Encryption — Your firm runs the risk of exposure every time someone transmits sensitive information via e-mail. It’s critical to protect yourself and clients against the loss of sensitive data, not to mention the associated loss of reputation and revenue. Encryption services ensure compliance with a wide range of legislation (e.g., the Gramm- Leach-Bliley Act, HIPAA and the Sarbanes- Oxley Act) that requires encrypting sensitive or confidential information. Additional benefits might include: • Flexible setup that allows and enforces custom encryption rules specific to your firm • The ability to administer and amend your firm’s custom rules as business dictates via a secure, Web-based interface • Full compliance with your firm’s established archiving rules • End-to-end encryption using industry standard S/MIME technology VOICE A smaller percentage of firms outsource to the cloud an even more basic communications technology — their Finding a Hosted Provider: Five Essential Questions To help narrow the field of potential outsourcing vendors, be sure to ask these five questions of any candidate asking for your business. The answers will help lead you to your ideal hosted provider. What is the company’s history? In the short history of the Internet, online entrepreneurs have come and gone. Be sure your hosting company is financially stable, offers global service and customer support, and has plenty of strong customer referrals. How much experience does the company have working with clients in the legal industry? The ideal vendor will understand the special needs of legal IT and have a proven track record serving legal clientele. Does the company offer ironclad security? Client confidentiality is imperative and can’t be left to chance. Be sure your provider’s solution ensures compliance with all federal privacy regulations. Is the company able to scale its services to your needs? You’ll want the ability to easily add or delete users as necessary. Look for the ability to scale on demand with the click of a mouse. Does the company demonstrate a commitment to world-class, enterprise-level businesses? Fax, e-mail and voice messaging are the communications lifeblood of any business, and even more so in today’s law firms. Your provider should be an expert at delivering solutions that support the success of both your firm and the clients you serve. ILTA www.iltanet.org Infrastructure Technologies 29