I think the 2nd one may be Aglaonema, but agree with the advice, and not just moving to smaller pot, but make sure to remove old soil and replace with new. A very tough plant but won't tolerate too much sogginess. It looks like you're avoiding that by only wetting the middle. But without flushing the soil periodically by letting water flow through and out the drain hole in the bottom, toxins are buiding up in the soil and inhibiting this plants' growth. Understandable in an office, but will cause a problem over time if not addressed. Another option might be to keep the same pot, get new soil, and add more plants to the pot so the pot is filled with roots and use the moisture faster. Some pieces of Tradescantia zebrina or something with a similar growth habit would cover the soil surface and trail around the edges of the pot, for a much more pleasing overall appearance.

The advantages of planting most perennials, shrubs, and trees (in our zone) in early to mid fall is slight compared to planting them in early to mid spring. In colder climates, it's often best to wait until spring to plant. If you are planting a fast growing or top-heavy deciduous tree or shrub, fall might give the roots time to get more well established before the plant experiences wind that could push the tree, with a smaller root ball, over. Basically, plant at whichever time is more convient to YOU. If you plant them correctly and water them until they get established either time (in this climate zone) would work just great.

Name that plant: http://forums2.gardenweb.com/forums/namegal

I started with one of these in early 2013 & it has yielded at least 500 new individuals since then by propagating branches. I don't do anything special for them, just water before the soil gets bone dry. I have about 20 different kinds of Kalanchoes and this is by far the most thirsty species. Being near a window where it gets at least an hour of direct light per day should be enough for it to bloom. It's one of my fav plants over winter because of the reliable, cheerful blooms.