Don Jaycox, CIO, DLA Piper 
Categories
  • Future of Work
  • Technology Optimization and Innovation
The Project

Don Jaycox recognized the transformational potential of  Cisco TelePresence technologies, and led DLA Piper to become early adopters of this technology, facilitating improved global collaboration.   Still, the use of traditional hosted video conferencing  remained a major operating cost , so Don challenged his team to  leverage the technology and talent used in managing a large TelePresence environment  to reduce the cost and improve the quality of traditional video conferencing services  while maintaining the highest level of client service and support.

The Technology

A variety of Cisco technologies were used to develop a holistic global video delivery strategy. The solution took into account scheduling, management, monitoring, quality assurance and ease of use for video calls.

Metrics Matter

In 2011, DLA Piper participated in approximately 14,000 video sessions (both TelePresence and traditional video).  So far in 2012, we’ve seen a 30% increase in video sessions and expect to finish the year with 18,000- 19,000 successful video-assisted meetings.  By bringing all video calls on to DLA Piper’s internal network, we expect to end 2012 with operating costs 70% below 2011.  In 2013, we expect those savings to rise to 90% of what we spent in 2011.  All of this with a dramatically improved user experience.

Disruptive Factor 

Video conferencing usage has been trending upwards as companies and law firms continue to grapple with the demands of globalization, while at the same time trying to reduce expenses and lost productivity related to travel. Providing on-net traditional video conferencing tightly integrated with TelePresence has not only reduced costs, but has led to improved global collaboration and communication.

Shining Moment

Our US Executive Board and our Global Board meet several times per year using video technology.  Not only has this saved a great deal on travel expenses, more than anything it has reduced the wear and tear on our executive leadership and given them more productive hours to focus on effectively running our global business.  In addition, we are able to broadcast high-quality video addresses from Firm Leadership to all corners of our global business.  

 

ABOUT DLA Piper

DLA Piper is a global law firm with 4,200 lawyers located in 31 countries and 77 offices throughout the Americas, Asia Pacific, Europe and the Middle East, positioned to help companies with their legal needs anywhere in the world.