Legal News and Views -  Asia Pacific and Beyond

We received an email from BIALL’s Legal Information Group this morning who have  received an official statement from PLC in response to the comments  made on LIS-LAW recently.

David Percik the Chair  writes for BIALL

I reproduce it below. It talks about the technical problems that some customers have experienced during the changeover period, and outlines PLC’s view of the advantages that username and password access has over IP recognition.

Here's what he/plc say........

On the first point, LIG is pleased to hear that PLC believe that the technical problems have been resolved. Do let us know if that is not your experience.


On the second point, I am not sure that I have a preference as between username and password access and IP recognition access. I can see advantages and disadvantages to both approaches, and my current employer uses a mixture across its database subscriptions. I especially cannot comment on different methods of accessing PLC, as I have never subscribed to it. I am prepared to believe, without seeing evidence to the contrary, that the majority of PLC subscribers prefer using usernames and passwords. My concern is that the company’s decision prevents some of their customers to use the product in the way that they feel is best for their organisation, and I would feel the same way if they had enforced IP recognition over username and password access.



Anyone who has views on this issue is welcome to send them either to me at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , or to Michael Normile, the LIG liaison to PLC, whose email address is This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . You are also welcome to discuss the issue with PLC’s client relations team on 020 7202 1220. Any comments made to LIG will be passed on to PLC, but will have names of individuals and organisations removed to maintain confidentiality. It may be worth reminding some people that any comments posted on LIS-LAW will be seen by employees of PLC, as well as numerous other publishers and suppliers.