If you are worried about getting stranded without a flight, finding yourself wasting too much time sitting in airports, or are concerned you will not get to the deposition in time, it’s time to take advantage of Desktop Video Conferencing (DVC).
DVC provides a solution to prevent the need to travel for 2-hour depositions, reduces the stress of leaving town in bad weather, and provides a way for you to stay home for the big football game. DVC provides solutions to these and other travel dilemmas you face each week while supporting your efforts to meet client’s expectations of doing more in less time, dealing with increased caseloads, and addressing sensitivity to litigation budgets.
DVC combines video streaming, video conferencing, and even electronic exhibit sharing into one powerful package. It is not only cost conscious, convenient, and easy-to-use but most importantly it provides the ability to see witness’ gestures and facial expressions while limiting the number of attorneys physically present with the witness. With the reduction in travel time, the benefit of not having to leave your home or office, and the elimination of travel costs, DVC is the undeniable choice of future nationwide depositions.
PohlmanUSA has trained all our court reporters and videographers on the quick and easy set-up of the PohlmanUSA-provided DVC equipment. In addition, our technology staff is not only on-hand to answer any questions prior to and during a deposition, we went a step further, and will monitor the video quality and connectivity of each DVC. This ensures PohlmanUSA is prepared to troubleshoot immediately if any issues should arise.
Contact us at [email protected] to get signed up or at [email protected] for questions.
Professional networking offers many benefits and rewards but if not done effectively it is a waste of your time. The concept sounds simple- go and talk to people but there is more to consider before you jump into the world of networking. 1) Why am I networking? This will help you narrow down where to network – the possibilities are endless. 2) Who do I want to meet? This will give you an initial goal for the event and may also help you choose what to attend. 3) What do I want to gain from networking? Are you looking for new business, a mentor, a job, knowledge, or connections in your industry? 4) Am I comfortable meeting strangers or do I need to take a friend or colleague with me? 5) Most importantly, do I have the time to commit not only to one event but to “networking”? If the answer to the last question is no- don’t start. You will just get frustrated that you did not get anything out of “networking” and may potentially burn bridges with individuals that you meet.
If you decide you do have time to network remember your goal and use prepared questions to start conversations keeping your objective for the event in mind. After the event make the time to follow-up through social media. You should also send hand written notecards to those you want to remain in contact or you had an exceptional encounter with, keep a spreadsheet with over-view of the group or event so that you know if it is worth your time in the future. Use the spreadsheet to list who you met, contact information and any interest gained so that you can quickly contact them individually or as a group in the future. I suggest quarterly contact through email, social media, in person meetings, sending an article or story that they may find of interest. This allow for growth of the relationship and shows that you are interested in the connection.
Remember you have to earn the right to ask for their assistance so find a way to add value and stay connected. Just like every relationship you will only get out of networking what you put into it and no relationship is built at one event. The same things goes with getting invited to additional events – if you can add value by offering your time to a committee, the board or by introducing other prospective members to the group you will quickly be an integral part of the organization and be seen as being informed about the group.
Make time and remember not to over-commit yourself when networking, or you will not be successful.
For a list of prospective networking organizations in the legal industry contact me at [email protected].
PohlmanUSA Court Reporting is pleased to announce the release of several updated features on our online case management system, MyCase. These updates were a direct result of the feedback received through recent power-user focus groups. We’ve also received an amazing response from over 100 paralegals and legal assistants to our recent online survey. We’re always listening and continuously striving to improve upon our service through advancements in our online web applications. Please find a brief description of each updated feature below.
• The notice of deposition, stip letter, and signature/page errata sheet file names are now visible on the calendar page.
• When signed up to receive the new deposition alert, you will receive an automated e-mail indicating that a deposition has been scheduled to take place within the next 5 calendar days. The case number has now been included in the body of the e-mail.
• The live deposition alerts are generated by a Pohlman employee to keep you informed of events that may be occurring during an active deposition. The subject line of this alert message will now include the Witness Name and Depositions date.
• The transcript request e-mail is delivered to your firm when someone from your firm is present at a Pohlman deposition. This e-mail will now contain the name of the attending attorney and clients represented at the deposition.
PohlmanUSA continues to reinvest in its clients with improvements in efficiency, mobility, and user-friendliness of our online web applications. Our clients continue to drive development efforts by providing insight into how these applications fit into their world. This will ensure that we are aligned with our client needs, proactively researching additional development opportunities, and able to provide management of complex multiparty litigation and all deposition intense cases.
Your additional feedback is greatly appreciated. We’re always listening.™
Please contact us at (877) 421-0099 or [email protected].
Thank you to the local women attorneys who were able to join us last Wednesday at Women’s Closet Exchange in St. Louis for Cocktails & Couture. It was a fun-filled evening of networking, drinks, and shopping. This first (hopefully annual event) was a show of gratitude to our clients during this time of year when we celebrate customer appreciation. The response was amazing and we are so honored to have been able to spend time with many of our devoted clients and friends!
While sipping wine and perusing the store for amazing finds, five lucky guests were surprised when we drew their names as winners. The gifts included a Michael Kors handbag, five, $50.00 gifts cards to the store, and a closet organization session. We wanted to add some value to your treasured time with us and that was hopefully accomplished by Jourdan from Hangers to Heels who spoke to us about closet organization tips and ideas (some of which I included below).
Women’s Closet Exchange was a great location for such a wonderful evening. Many of those in attendance had only heard of the store but not experienced it as a potential for reasonably priced designer items. If you too have been kept in the dark about this fabulous shopping destination let me fill you in. Women’s Closet Exchange is one of the top resale stores in the country and offers an upscale shopping experience where you can find designer named clothing, shoes, handbags and accessories at a fraction of retail prices. This is the place to get affordable fashion and their trio of stores include Clique (geared towards teenage customers) and Purple Cow (for kids and expectant moms).
Thanks to our clients, the efforts of Jourdan with Hangers to Heels, and the wonderful owners and staff at Women’s Closet Exchange everyone had a great evening and is looking forward to it again next year.
Below are some of Jourdan’s tips from the evening:
When you are editing and purging your closet it comes down to 4 simple questions-
1. Have you worn it in the last year?
2. Is it something you’d buy today?
3. Does it look worn-in?
4. Does it fit properly?
Also take into consideration when the last time you wore that item was, how long you’ve
owned it, and how versatile (or not versatile) it is. The best way to purge is by doing it with someone who will be honest.
Other closet tips:
• Remove clothes from dry-cleaning bags as soon as you get home—they can’t breathe and will ruin your clothes’ colors and fabrics. Additionally the chemicals attack the fibers of your clothing and cause damage- but keep the bags to use for when you travel- they help keep wrinkles out of clothes when in suitcases.
• Hangers- make sure they are uniform because your eye follows the clothes rather than the different style/colored hangers. Also, slim-line hangers are lifesavers- they take up less space, look less cluttered, and offer an easy and instant face-lift for your closet.
• Clothing- organize clothing by garment type with lightest to darkest from the left to right.
If you have additional closet questions or need help with your organization, Jourdan can be reached at [email protected].
Women’s Closet Exchange is located at 11575 Gravois Rd, St. Louis, Mo 63126.
For information on future events contact PohlmanUSA at events at PohlmanUSA.com.
PohlmanUSA’s Chicago office is starting the day in a new space located at 20 South Clark Street. The new office houses 2 private offices available for attorneys to use prior to and during depositions. It also provides a conference room, seating up to 20, available to hold depositions and video conferences. We believe the move of the Chicago office to an inviting, accessible, newly designed space will offer our clients a more comfortable environment to hold depositions and provide the Chicago staff a more functional space to improve efficiency.
The PohlmanUSA that you have grown to rely on was built by a team, using our strength, stability, technology, and innovation, all which are key elements of the PohlmanUSA vision. We see the updated Chicago office space as one more way we can deliver exceptional service and we hope the new vibrant space appropriately reflects PohlmanUSA’s continued and proactive commitment to Quality, Service, and Technology.
As with every office move memories creep up and years past are remembered. The same feelings have been experienced by our Chicago and St. Louis staff over the past few weeks as items were boxed up, closets and bookshelves emptied, and good byes to friends in the building were said. Remembering the days of attorneys crammed in the conference room all watching one screen for video conferences and submitting their transcript orders on the back of their business cards brought back memories of where we have been.
This move also gave the entire PohlmanUSA team the chance to reflect on the positive changes we have made as a company over the past 20 years. Whether it was finding a Pohlman business card with an 8-year-old logo in the back of a desk drawer, picking up a pen hidden under a desk since a client dropped it years ago, or reminiscing about the days of transcript production prior to the launch of the MyCase system, we all were reminded why we work for PohlmanUSA. The vision to always anticipate client needs, the desire to exceed expectations, the drive to lead by continuing to invest in best technology available and create new web tools, and the understanding that none of it will be accomplished unless every member of the Pohlman team works together is why we are all here, more than 20 years later. PohlmanUSA specializes in complex multiparty litigation by creating innovative products and customized solutions for our clients but we are also each committed to delivering exceptional customer service, 24/7, and anticipating our client’s needs. We’re always listening.™
You can visit the new Chicago office of PohlmanUSA during a two night open house December 4th and December 5th. Get more information by contacting the sales and marketing team at 877-421-0099 or [email protected]
PohlmanUSA- 20 South Clark Street, Suite 2475, Chicago, IL 60603
With ever-changing technology, the expectation of doing more in less time, increased caseloads, and client’s sensitivity to litigation budgets, Desktop Video Conferencing (DVC) is an effective tool for use at depositions. DVC combines video streaming, video conferencing, and even electronic exhibits into one powerful package. It is not only cost conscious, convenient, and easy-to-use but most importantly it provides the ability to see witness’ gestures and facial expressions while limiting the number of attorneys physically present with the witness. With the reduction in travel time, the benefit of not having to leave your home of office, and the elimination of travel costs, DVC is the undeniable choice of future nationwide depositions.
Pohlman has trained all our court reporters and videographers on the quick and easy set-up of the Pohlman-provided DVC equipment. In addition, our technology staff is not only on-hand to answer any questions prior to and during a deposition, we went a step further, and will monitor the video quality and connectivity of each DVC. This ensures PohlmanUSA is prepared to troubleshoot immediately if any issues should arise.
Some best practices for DVC are:
1) Notice or Cross-Notice your deposition to include “via Desktop VC” five (5) business days in advance to ensure ample time for equipment delivery and on-site testing
2) Ensure all exhibits you may want to share via DesktopVC are in PDF format prior to start of the deposition.
3) Ensure all exhibit files are named and stored on your computer in a numbered sequence with a brief description to keep sharing quick and streamlined
• Ex: “1 – Notice of Deposition”
• Ex: “2 – Medical Record of Deponent”
• Ex: “3 – CV of Deponent” etc.
4) Whenever possible, pre-upload documents to the Exhibits Pod prior to start of the deposition.
5) For the best video quality, use a hardwired (LAN) connection for your viewing computer. Wi-Fi can be used but may reduce clarity and cause intermittent connectivity issues.
6) Use the conference call phone number and conference ID provided to receive audio for the deposition
7) Pohlman will make sure the DesktopVC room is open and available 30 minutes prior to the start of the deposition to ensure technology functionality and provide any technical support needed to participants
8) Reach out to our scheduling department at 877-421-0099 OR [email protected] for more information or technical support.
To schedule a webinar or in-office presentation on DVC please contact the sales and marketing department at PohlmanUSA at 877-421-0099.
This morning PohlmanUSA introduced a new corporate logo, tag line, website and marketing materials. The newly designed site, we believe, will offer you a better online experience and a more efficient access whether you are looking for our contact information or reviewing our available services. You will also begin seeing our new logo and collateral materials, which illustrate a fresh and vibrant image reflecting PohlmanUSA’s continued and proactive commitment to Quality, Service, and Technology.
The PohlmanUSA that you have grown to rely on was built by a team, using our strength, stability, technology, and innovation, all which are key elements of the PohlmanUSA vision. Our new logo incorporates blues, green and orange to illustrate that while we work together as a team, PohlmanUSA is comprised of many talented individuals with their own strengths, personalities and unique perspectives.
We believe the newly designed logo and colors embody the PohlmanUSA vision, to be recognized nationwide as the leading provider of technology-driven court reporting and litigation services. For more than 20 years, PohlmanUSA has specialized in complex multiparty litigation by creating innovative products and customized solutions for our clients. We are committed to delivering exceptional customer service, 24/7, and anticipating our clients’ needs. We’re always listening.™
Steven Heinle has joined St. Louis, Mo.-based national litigation support firm, PohlmanUSA Court Reporting, as director of technology. Making the announcement was Vicki Pohlman, founder and chief executive officer.
In his new position, Heinle oversees all corporate information technology activities including systems analysis, programming, and computer auxiliary operations. He comes to PohlmanUSA with over 20 years of experience in designing and implementing networks and most recently worked for a St. Louis based law firm where he led their technology department.
Heinle is a former member of the Association of Legal Administrators (ALA) and the Gateway Chapter of the International Legal Technology Association.
Heinle spent nearly 8 years in the United States Air Force as a network information technology specialist.
Founded in 1990, PohlmanUSA provides law firms across the U.S. with court reporting and advanced litigation support services from offices in St. Louis, Mo. and Chicago, Ill. Its 50-member staff is complemented by a nationwide network of 340 partner-contractors. The firm offers a proprietary, online case management program called MyCase and a custom file server solution, MyDocServe. It also operates an application service provider business, Pohlman Document Services. In 2012, it launched a document production, sharing and storage site called MyRecordsRetrieval. PohlmanUSA is Women Business Enterprise (WBE)-certified. Visit www.pohlmanusa.com for more information.
Environmental concern has steadily increased over the past 10 years but most law firms have done little to recognize the importance of environmental sustainability. Law firms mandate pro bono programs, participate in charity events, offer volunteer hours, and hold holiday fundraisers but do little to promote protecting the environment. As a participant in the community, leader in society, and having a duty to represent our clients and their best interests should we not also be forced to be cognizant of what we can do for the environment.
While some of the St. Louis area law firms have programs to lower their carbon footprint many have realized that it is not easy to start sustainability programs. Looking too big with no real goal can be a deterrent for many firms. If you are just starting a program at your firm keep in mind that being green can be as easy as implementing a firm-wide recycling program or using a business partner who offers services focused on recycling and reusing. The cost and time associated with researching and starting these programs may be challenging for many firms so try starting small to achieve a higher rate participation from your firm.
Starting a sustainability program is best done by first forming a sustainability or green committee. Including someone from your environmental practice and adding several attorneys to the committee will add to the credibility and buy-in of the rest of your firm. Be sure that the committee only consists of individuals who will be true leaders in the green initiative. Once the committee is formed there are many ways to limit the environmental impact of your firms employees but educating your office on what is being done and why must occur first. Use every opportunity available to inform your employees of the changes and why they are being implemented. The more information people have on the why behind the actions the better chance they will follow the lead of the sustainability committee.
Easy ways to start lowering your firm’s carbon footprint:
Using energy smart light bulbs
Buying energy star office, kitchen and electronic equipment
Repurpose old office furniture and supplies
Recycle old equipment, batteries, toner cartridges, bottles, cans, paper, etc.
Adding recycling bins to each office and meeting space
Using only recycled paper
Make double side copies
Set-up copiers and computers to go to sleep mode after 10 minutes of inactivity
Limit printed emails
Distribute all internal memos and faxes electronically
Reduce business travel
Promote staying at environmentally friendly hotels
Promote carpooling or using public transportation through subsidies and reimbursements
Limit paper and Styrofoam cups in your office
Use filtered water as opposed to bottled water
The ABA encourages law firms to conserve energy and think about the environmental impact of your day to day practice as well. Law firms can participate in the ABA –EPA Law Office Climate Challenge by undertaking several best practices for conserving energy.
St. Louis area firms recognized through the ABA Challenge are:
- Bryan Cave LLP
- Greensfelder Hemker & Gale, P.C.
- Heyl, Royster, Voelker & Allen
- Littler Mendelson, P.C.
- Thompson Coburn LLP
For more information go to www.americanbar.org/groups
Carrie Titus is an attorney and is Director of Sales and Marketing at PohlmanUSA Court Reporting. She can be reached at [email protected].
We know what is takes to be a great court reporter because we hire them all the time. PohlmanUSA Court Reporting is recognized nationwide as the leading provider of technology-driven court reporting and litigation services. For more than 20 years, PohlmanUSA has specialized in complex multiparty litigation by creating innovative products and customized solutions for our clients. We are committed to delivering exceptional customer service and anticipating our clients’ needs. We will continue to work for you and the additional of our blog will help to keep you up to date with legal news, upcoming events and fun legal facts. And keep following us to learn what our court reporters do to get hired, and what they do on a daily basis to help your litigation run smoother. We’re always listening.
About PohlmanUSA
PohlmanUSA provides the most accurate, reliable, technologically-advanced court reporting, records, and litigation services.
