The quarterly publication of the International Legal Technology Association
Issue link: https://epubs.iltanet.org/i/4983
the quarterly magazine of ILTA 55 Peer to Peer Comparing Smartphones in the Legal Environment Conclusion Overall, I have to stand by the BlackBerry. While many devices fall in to the "good enough" category, it is the productivity- specific aspects that make the difference. The BlackBerry screen isn't as crisp or as flashy as the iPhone's screen. It doesn't have the webOS like the Pre. It doesn't have open source like Android. And, it doesn't have the familiarity with Outlook that Windows Mobile has. The BlackBerry is the mutt of the smartphone world even though Research In Motion basically invented the category. RIM has addressed the needs of its users in a specific market. Had this been an evaluation of a consumer product, the conclusion would be different. With regards to the legal world, however, the BlackBerry is a productivity tool. RIM is trying to break into the consumer market, but the company is having the same problems that the Apple, Palm and all others are having breaking into the enterprise market, which is to focus on an opposite customer base. BlackBerry focuses on business and the others on consumers. The capability of control over the device is another aspect that sets the BlackBerry apart. System administration is paramount, not just from an IT support perspective. It is also a powerful ally for keeping attorneys productive. Unlocking the device, securing it, keeping it updated and setting policy allowances and restrictions keep attorneys working without having to touch their devices. This is the greatest capability. All of the devices tested fill a niche in their own right. Individuals will disagree on which provides the best capabilities, just as they will argue over the choices of Coke or Pepsi, thick or thin crust pizza, boxers or briefs. The manufacturers and wireless carriers understand the strength of the enterprise and business market, and they are constantly moving toward incorporating them in their business cases for new devices. Just look at the outcry for the Pre when it was released without PinLock compatibility with ActiveSync. Palm released an update to correct the oversight in under 30 days. These devices will continue to pursue the BlackBerry and, much like Motorola has been surpassed as the lead cellphone manufacturer, BlackBerry, will be surpassed by another device, most likely the iPhone. ILTA andrew collier is an 18-year veteran in the telecommunications and data services industries. as director of information technology at Polsinelli shughart Pc, drew oversees infrastructure and operations for technology solutions and data center facilities for 13 offices throughout the united states. he focuses on improving customer service and ensuring a consistent, positive experience for end users while tirelessly advocating the marketing of technology as both a firm and client service. he can be reached at dcollier@polsinelli.com. Litigation is all about persuasion and persuasion often hinges on presentation. Present an irrefutable case with Sanction's easy to use, intuitive features. Activate powerful graphics and video to bring the elements of your argument to life and truly connect with the jury. Find out how easy it is to get an edge with Sanction – visit sanction.com for a free demo. Make the jury see your case exactly the way you see it. Catch a free video demonstration of Sanction and Verdical software in the digital version of this magazine at www.iltanet.org under the Publications tab.