orate conference rooms. At the desktop, video communication is even easier. Perhaps no computer ships today without video communication software, a modem or Ethernet jack, a microphone and speakers. Few, if any, computers stand completely disconnected from the Internet. Furthermore, while wireless networks are gearing up, Video Communications: The Whole Picture mobile telephone users foreshadow end-to-end interactive video communications by augmenting their conversations with still pictures. Businesses use personal conferencing to link employees, customers, suppliers, and strategic partners to save time and money. Legislators encourage video communication by rewarding organizations that adopt telecommuting initiatives and thereby reduce the number of vehicles on the roads. Only some rural residences today cannot gain broadband Internet access. Cable television service (CATV) providers and long-distance telecommunications providers (inter-exchange carriers, or IXCs) are frenetically competing in the local loop market that Local Exchange Carriers (LECs) historically considered their exclusive domain. Ample connectivity abounds for video communication from homes and businesses. Any organization that relies upon geographically separated workers can benefit from video communication. Apparel makers use video communication to review concepts, artwork, type proofs, and sales and marketing collateral. Retailers use it to display merchandise and specify color or style, as well as recommend price and advertising messages. Pharmaceutical companies use video communication technology to develop new products. A common thread between chemical companies, railroads, and jewelers is that they all employ video communication. Video communication saves travel expense. It cuts even more costs by improving productivity and communication. Many successful organizations find video communication indispensable for managing the invaluable time of strategic in- demand personnel. Some speed business cycles by uniting individuals who cannot meet