At Smarsh, we recognize that businesses that have adopted hosted email services like Gmail need to meet the same SEC regulatory requirements as organizations using on-premises email systems. Our press release announcing Smarsh’s archiving solution for Google Apps back in December 2009 created a lot of buzz, but we’re still seeing some questions about the service. Here are answers to the questions we get the most often about Google Apps archiving from Smarsh.

Which version of Google Apps do I need to use?

Yes, the Smarsh Google Apps archiving solution is only compatible with the “Google Apps for Business” version of Google Apps.

Is your Google Apps archiving solution SEC and FINRA compliant, including SEC 17a-4?

The Smarsh Google Apps archiving solution is compliant with SEC and FINRA regulation, which includes SEC Rule 17a-4. This rule requires broker-dealers maintaining records electronically to use a digital storage medium or system that preserves the records in a non-rewriteable, non-erasable format. In addition to SEC Rule 17a-4, our solution helps companies be compliant with SEC 204-2, FINRA Rule 3010, FINRA Rule 3110 and more.

What is the set up process like?

Our implementation team is a unique part of the Smarsh Advantage. Our specialized team works with you, making sure the set up process is as seamless as possible. Archiving a Google Apps hosted domain does require changes to the email routing, but our support team can help you every step of the way.

If you have any additional questions, give us a call, chat with one of our Account Managers via instant message (at the top right of the page), or send us an email.
This post has been updated, replacing the outdated name of Google Apps Premier and using Google Apps for Business.