Jon Resnick, Esq.

Applied Discovery has harnessed the power of the Internet since long before it was known as the "cloud." Though people typically distinguish between cloud computing, which focuses on providing infrastructure via the Internet, and software-as-a-service (SaaS), which focuses on sharing software applications over the Internet, recently the line between the two has become blurred. According to Canadian lawyer James Kosa, "if a software service is offered on a subscription basis over the Internet, then it is definitely a traditional SaaS service. If that same service is readily scalable to meet increased demand, then it should be called a cloud SaaS service." Most e-discovery services fall within the latter description.

We were one of the first e-discovery companies to pioneer the review of electronically stored information (ESI) in the cloud through our SaaS-delivered Online Review Application. In our experience, SaaS-based e-discovery helps clients respond more quickly to requests for ESI, decreases costs, and reduces risk. Instead of having to deploy software on individual computers, companies can get up and running quickly and inexpensively. Further, companies only pay for services that they use: when you aren't in the midst of litigation, you won't be paying for software you aren't using. In addition, lawyers at various locations have access to the information stored in the cloud at a moment's notice.

Despite these benefits, when we first sit down with clients, they often express trepidation about relying on a cloud-based SaaS platform instead of their own servers for storing their ESI. They fear that they will lose control of their data and that they will be unable to verify whether it is stored in a secure location. When they learn more about the state-of-the art security systems we employ, our clients quickly realize that their concerns are unfounded.

At Applied Discovery, we store client data in a private, secure cloud-based application. We use Qwest Communications' CyberCenter hosting services, which provide 24/7 protection. The CyberCenters boast the latest environmental and security equipment, including uninterrupted power service and generator backups. Additionally, the physical security around the Qwest data center that houses Applied Discovery's client data employs world-class security measures that defend against all forms of intrusion, as well as structural and environmental controls, to protect the integrity of our clients' information. We also use best-in-class security to guard our virtual private network (VPN) with cutting-edge technology for detecting all forms of electronic intrusion. Finally, our comprehensive disaster recovery plan provides for redundant, separately stored copies of all ESI.

For more information on how we use the cloud to securely manage our clients' data, please download our white papers entitled "Applied Discovery Data Security & Privacy" and "Applied Discovery Powered by Qwest CyberCenter Hosting Services."

Jon Resnick

Worldwide Vice President, Field Operations and Marketing