TECH TALK
The Forecast for Legal Technology: Partly to Mostly Cloudy
Steven J. Best Affinity Consulting Group sbest @ affinityconsulting. com
Cloud Computing Defined Vagueness
Cloud computing is a rather vague term that covers several concepts. Within the scope of legal technology, it most often refers to Software As A Service(“ SAAS”), but is not limited to the SAAS definition below. There are a ridiculous number of definitions of SAAS. One thing that is perfectly clear about cloud computing is that nothing actually happens in the clouds.
Software as a Service
Cloud Computing /" Software as a Service "( SAAS) is a software distribution model in which certain applications are hosted by a vendor or service provider and made available to customers over the Internet. Thus, in the SAAS model, the provider gives customers internet access to a licensed copy of their application.
Infrastructure / Desktop as a Service
Cloud computing may also be defined as the maintenance of a cloud based workspace that provides you the flexibility to work from anywhere, on any web-enabled device while also ensuring that all users have access to the most up to date version of the software you need. Traditional software and data reside in a data center( on what are essentially traditional servers) that maintain high levels security and fail-safe procedures. You simply connect via a secure internet connection from anywhere you are; applications run just like they would on your desktop computer.
The SAAS Model Advantages of Software as a Service( SAAS)
1. UP FRONT COST: The marketing strategy of most cloud computing providers is to heavily stress that there is little or no upfront cost to using their cloud based system. Thus, there are no servers to purchase and setup, there is normally no extra equipment to buy;
2. OPERATING SYSTEM AGNOSTIC: Most, if not all, SAAS solutions will work on a Windows or Mac operating system, work on tablets and smart phones;
3. UPDATES & SUPPORT: Most SAAS providers include tech support and updates in your monthly fee;
4. BACKUP: Because you are not " hosting " the data on one of your firm ' s computers, the SAAS provider is usually 100 % responsible for all data backups. However, you should also ask if you may back up your data into a format that other programs could essentially read on data import( Excel, CSV), and be wary of any company that says no;
5. LOGIN FROM ANYWHERE / ANYTIME: Frequently, the driving factor behind firms seeking to move to a SAAS model for software is the idea / concept that anyone with credentials, can log into the system from anywhere there is a high-speed internet connection at any time. While this is a fantastic concept, the SAAS model is not the only way that you can have
14 November 2017