NetCase has been regularly improved since it was launched by ICC in November 2005. Now, in addition to searching for documents, users are able to conduct full text searches in their case documents posted on NetCase, irrespective of the format.

“This new evolution of NetCase adds to the advantages it already offers to users and makes this platform an indispensable tool in ICC arbitration procedures,” said Mirèze Philippe, ICC Special Counsel, who is in charge of NetCase.

Lawyers and arbitrators who use NetCase have responded very favourably to the platform since its launch, describing it as an impressive and efficient tool for case management. They have reported that uploading in NetCase was much faster than in platforms they usually used with state tribunals, where filings were made exclusively online. They have also found that NetCase was very easy to navigate and said they appreciated the support they received every time they called or sent an email.

“One of the most important added-values is the secure centralized system rather than multiple extranets,” said Ms Philippe. “NetCase provides centralized storage for all documents and messages and uniform file organization for all cases. This enables practitioners to become familiar with the platform quickly and simplifies the search for information,” she added.

NetCase is available at no additional charge to participants in an ICC arbitration.

The Secretary General of the ICC International Court of Arbitration, Jason Fry, said: “We are very pleased that we can now offer this facility. It is part of our constant drive to offer improved service to the users of ICC arbitration.”

Features of the system include:

* Updated information in real time.

* Forums that enable participants to exchange views in a secure environment, instead of sending unprotected emails. 

* Immediate availability of posted documents and messages; for every new posting, an alert message is sent to users.

* Ability to post very large documents and numerous documents in several file formats.

Guidelines on using information technology in arbitration are available to assist NetCase users. They were published in a special supplement of the ICC International Court of Arbitration Bulletin entitled “Using Technology to Resolve Business Disputes”.

For more information on NetCase, please contact:

Mirèze Philippe

Special Counsel

ICC International Court of Arbitration

Tel: + 33 1 49 53 29 74

Email: mireze.philippe@iccwbo.org